IISER Pune’s SURGE Programme Supports Under-Represented Students in Life Sciences
Pune, 29th December 2025: The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune has concluded the third edition of its “Skill-enhancement for Under-Represented Groups in Education (SURGE)” workshop, aimed at improving employability and research readiness among Life Sciences students from under-represented backgrounds.
The week-long residential programme was held from December 21 to 27, 2025, and brought together 26 Master’s students from institutions across India. The workshop focused on bridging the gap between academic training and professional requirements in academic and industrial research and development.
The programme was organised by Prof. Sutirth Dey of the Biology Department, IISER Pune, along with Ms. Poornima Raveendran and Dr. Garima Sharma. Financial support for the workshop was provided by the Praj Foundation and KK Nag Pvt Ltd, highlighting collaboration between academic institutions and industry for inclusive education.
As part of the curriculum, participants received hands-on training in advanced laboratory techniques such as TA cloning, real-time PCR, and Western blotting. Sessions were also conducted on emerging technologies including CRISPR gene-editing, mass spectrometry, and the use of artificial intelligence tools such as AlphaFold for protein structure prediction.
To provide industry and field exposure, students visited the Praj Industries Research and Development Centre and the National Facility for Gene Function in Health and Disease (NFGFHD).
The workshop concluded with a valedictory programme attended by Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST), Prof. Sunil Bhagwat, Director of IISER Pune, and Dr. Pramod Kumbhar, Chief Technology Officer of Praj Industries.
Addressing the participants, Prof. Karandikar spoke about the government’s focus on inclusive growth in science and technology, while Prof. Bhagwat and Dr. Kumbhar highlighted the increasing role of skilled human resources in strengthening India’s bio-economy and research ecosystem.
