Need to position KU as leading global centre for research, innovation: VC

Srinagar, Nov 8: To provide in-depth insights into cutting-edge technologies used in biomedical research and share advanced scientific knowledge and techniques with the broader scientific community, the University of Kashmir (KU) organised a two-day workshop here.
Titled ‘Gene Silencing and Knockout Strategies in Cells and Organisms’, the workshop was organised by the varsity’s Department of Biochemistry from November 5-6 under the ANRF (SERB)-India’s Scientific Social Responsibility initiative.
30 participants, including faculty and research scholars from institutions such as SKUAST-K, SKIMS, GMC Srinagar, GMC Handwara and various degree colleges attended the workshop receiving training in technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, RNA interference, transgenesis, and others, which allow for precise gene silencing or removal/inactivation in cancer cells and model organisms like Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Helicobacter pylori, Drosophila, mice and plants.
In her address at the certificate award ceremony, KU Vice Chancellor, Prof Nilofer Khan, commended the department’s efforts to advance scientific research and education.
She encouraged the faculty to “position the University of Kashmir as a leading global centre for research and innovation through active collaborations and knowledge exchange”.
Head, Department of Biochemistry and workshop convener, Prof Shajrul Amin, highlighted the department’s ongoing focus on fundamental research, saying: “Our department is committed to encouraging research and organising meaningful academic events such as workshops, symposia and conferences to enhance scientific dialogue.”
Organising secretary of the workshop, Dr M Ashraf Dar, urged participants to share their knowledge with students and scholars in their institutions, saying, “The gene silencing and knockout technologies explored here should be imparted to the next generation of researchers to drive innovation in academic and research institutions.”
Dr Ashraf also proposed the formal vote of thanks on the occasion.