The Department of Biotechnology organized an online guest lecture on the topic “Navigating from Campus to Corporate: A Journey through Biotech R&D” on 23rd October 2025. The lecture, conducted via Microsoft Teams, witnessed enthusiastic participation from both students and faculty members. The resource person for the session was Mrs. Ramashree Saienath, M.Tech., Research Engineer – II, Life Sciences R&D, Saint-Gobain India Pvt. Ltd., IITMRP, Chennai.
The session began with a welcome address delivered by Ms. S. Sharmita, III Year, Biotechnology, followed by the presidential address by Dr. C. Nirmala, Head of the Department of Biotechnology. The guest introduction was given by Ms. E. Sobika, III Year, Biotechnology.
The speaker initiated the session by engaging the students with questions about the role of biotechnology in R&D. She distinguished between academic R&D and industrial R&D, and shared valuable insights on handling nutraceuticals, oligosaccharides as natural sweeteners, and Omega-3 fatty acids. She also created awareness among the student community about Life Sciences divisions in reputed MNCs such as TATA, Camlin, and Saint-Gobain Life Sciences.
The talk further emphasized Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), assay development, ISO standards, auditor applications, and EMSAR program accreditation. She elaborated on proposal submission and patenting processes, highlighting the importance of skill development in the field.
Explained various research positions such as JRF, SRF, RA, and Project Assistant roles in central institutions like CSIR labs and IITs.
Provided information about entrance examinations for higher studies such as GATE and CSIR-NET.
Introduced various marketing roles available for life science graduates.
Emphasized the development of general skills like communication, problem-solving, and management.
Guided students on how to develop these skills using different resources.
Explained diverse career paths in biotechnology and discussed industry opportunities for life science students.
The lecture was highly interactive, with engaging Q&A sessions that kept the students actively involved throughout. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. M. Aiyesha Amreen, II Year, Biotechnology, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished speaker for her valuable insights and to the department for organizing such an enlightening session.
Overall, the guest lecture was attended by 85 students and 4 faculty members.
