Academic Visit Report - Global Bio India 2024
Academic Visit Report: School of Life Sciences & Technology - Department of Biotechnology
Overview of the Academic Visit
On September 13, 2024, the Department of Biotechnology from the School of Life Sciences & Technology (SOLST) at IIMT University organized an academic visit to the Global Bio-India 2024 event at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. This event, sponsored by BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, served as a platform for biotech students and faculty members to explore the Biotech Innovation Ecosystem and the rapidly advancing field of Bio-manufacturing.
The visit aimed to provide an immersive experience for 21 participants, including faculty members Dr. Shubha Dwivedi (Head of Department) and Dr. Bandana Jaiswal. The event commenced at 9:30 AM and concluded at 4:00 PM, offering a comprehensive journey through the latest innovations in biotechnology.
Objectives of the Visit
- To expose students to the innovative ecosystem in biotechnology.
- To gain insights into emerging biotech startups and their impact on industry and research.
- To understand practical applications of biotechnology, particularly in bio-manufacturing.
- To encourage students to explore potential startup opportunities and entrepreneurial endeavors within the field.
Detailed Itinerary of the Visit
1. Poultry Health Care Innovations - Hester Biosciences
At the Hester Biosciences booth, students learned about the company’s initiatives in animal healthcare. The focus was on vaccines for poultry, both live (such as LIVE LAS and LIVE B1-M48) and inactivated (Inactivated CHICK ND), which provide crucial disease prevention for poultry.
2. Deep Tech Startups at IIT Madras Bio-Incubator
The group visited the IIT Madras Bio-Incubator, a core component of the deep tech startup ecosystem managed by the IITM Incubation Cell. Known for supporting over 374 startups, this incubator fosters innovative ideas with viable business plans and feasibility for incubation.
3. Serum Institute of India
A significant point of interest was the Serum Institute of India (SII), known for its role in producing COVID-19 vaccines during the pandemic. The booth offered students an up-close view of vaccine development processes and logistics.
4. Coconut Sugar Innovations - Sakshi Coco Products
At Sakshi Coco Products, the group explored the development of coconut sugar, a natural sweetener beneficial for diabetic patients.
5. National Association of Startup Ecosystem - BSIS
The students visited the National Association of Startup Ecosystem (BSIS), India’s first association dedicated to supporting biotech startups.
6. LaTrobe University Center
The LaTrobe University Center booth provided insights into international collaborations in biotechnology research.
7. Plant Cell Technology Lab
The Plant Cell Technology Lab displayed innovations in the bioprocessing of high-value phytochemicals, particularly in pharmaceuticals and natural health products.
8. Brihati Natural Foods
At the Brihati Natural Foods exhibit, students were introduced to natural food products like green tea, grains, and spices.
9. Biomass Densification Technology
The tour concluded with a visit to the Biomass Densification Technology booth, featuring sustainable solutions for biomass utilization.
Learning Outcomes
1. Enhanced Research and Development Knowledge
Students gained insights into cutting-edge research methodologies and processes, particularly in biomanufacturing.
2. Insights into Biotech Startups
The visit provided students with a roadmap to establishing startups in the biotechnology sector.
3. Understanding of Startup Platforms and Support Networks
Engagement with startup platforms like BSIS and IIT Madras Bio-Incubator demonstrated available support networks for aspiring biotech entrepreneurs.
4. Educational and Professional Impact
This experience enhanced students' practical skills and broadened their perspectives in biotechnology.
5. Positive Feedback from Participants
The participants expressed high levels of satisfaction with the visit.
Key Takeaways
The academic visit to Global Bio India 2024 sponsored by BIRAC was an invaluable educational experience for the biotechnology students and faculty members of IIMT University. By engaging with industry leaders and research institutions, the participants gained practical insights that will aid them in their academic and professional pursuits within biotechnology.
With a focus on research and development, startup incubation, and sustainable practices, Global Bio India 2024 inspired the next generation of biotech professionals.
13-Sep-2024
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