Post Event

NCRM starts PhD programme in stem cell research

Chennai

Nichi-In Centre for Regenerative Medicine (NCRM), Chennai, in affiliation with Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, launched an academic programme of doctorate level research in stem cell research for postgraduates in life sciences or graduates in medical, veterinary or dental medicine. An MoU was signed between the institutes for collaboration on research and academic activities. This will allow joint research meetings, seminars and training programmes between the two institutes.

The programme is designed for four years. However, it can be reduced to three years, if the applicant has an experience of five years. "The persons enrolling in PhD programme will jointly accomplish research in liver stem cells and haematopoietic stem cells to find solutions for several diseases which are beyond the realm of a definitive treatment as of now," said Dr Samuel J K Abraham, Director, NCRM. Emphasising the need for such research oriented studies, Abraham said, "The PhD programmes are not just for the research in the area of stem-cell, but for developing an application that could benefit many."

Professor K R Sambasiva Rao, HOD, Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna University, will be the programme director of this PhD programme. The university is conducting doctorate studies in biotechnology with specialisation in stem cell research. "After an interaction with biotechnology department, over two years, the senate of the university has approved this collaboration," said Rao. The collaboration will enable the research students to use the facilities for purposes like clinical trial etc, he added. NCRM will provide assistance involving laboratory work, animal research and clinical studies. The university also offers full time PhD course that can be availed in the university's premises.

Professor V Balamohandas, Vice Chancellor, Acharya Nagarjuna University handed over the enrolment certificates to the two scientists (MSc Microbiology) and one clinical doctor (MD-Internal medicine) who are enrolled for this PhD programme in stem cell research through NCRM. They were scrutinised from the 36 applications received for this programme.

Kazuo Minagawa, Consul General of Japan, said, "This is an excellent example of co-operation between India and Japan in healthcare and education as the Japanese technological strength through NCRM will train and educate the students in India and equip them to come out with solutions for several diseases that would benefit the entire mankind." NCRM plans to absorb the three persons who have enrolled now, upon their completion. "Since the demand for qualified personnel in this field is high, there is a prospective career waiting for those who have completed this course," said Abraham.