Department of Biotechnology - Activities

Activities & Events conducted in the year 2024-2025

The Department of Biotechnology conducted a spectrum of learner-centric activities in this academic year. The Nature’s Lens photography competition was organized under the CARRE initiative by the Department of Biotechnology on 3rd July, 2024. Fifty-one learners of the college from all departments participated in the competition. The learners were encouraged to capture the essence of nature through their lenses. The event provided a platform for aspiring photographers to showcase their creativity and technical skills, highlighting landscapes, wildlife, and environmental themes and the significance of biodiversity. The first place was won by Vrishita Raghunathan (SYBSc BT, 1741).

A Debate Competition was organized by the Department of Biotechnology on 16th August, 2024, under the Value-added, Ethics-oriented activity for the learners of B.Sc. (Biotech). This provided learners with an opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions. The topic of the competition was “Ethical issues in Biotechnology”.  Twenty learners of B.Sc. (Biotech) participated in the competition. Participants presented well-researched arguments on contemporary issues, enhancing their public speaking and critical thinking abilities. The competition was won by the group of Karan Bhatt (FYBSc BT, 2404), Vansh Kataria (FYBSc BT, 2407), Parthi Shah (FYBSc BT, 2452), Bahisha Nadar (FYBSc BT, 2421), Monika Maurya (FYBSc BT, 2483) and Pawankumar Purve (FYBSc BT, 2441).

The “United Frames- Reel for Integration”, a reel-making competition was organized by the Department of Biotechnology on 17th August, 2024, bringing together aspiring content creators. Seventeen learners of Biotechnology participated in the competition. Participants created short, engaging videos, expressing their ideas through innovative storytelling and visual techniques highlighting the spirit of National Integration. The first place was won by Vrishita Raghunathan (SYBSc BT, 1741).

A Guest Lecture on the topic “Advances in Biotechnology Research & Technology” was conducted on 10th January, 2025. The resource person Dr. Ankita Samanta (PhD., Clarkson University, USA) provided valuable insights into recent developments in biotechnology, research methodologies, and emerging career opportunities in the field. Fifty one learners of FYBSc., SYBSc and TYBSc of Biotechnology attended the guest lecture.

The Department of Biotechnology hosted its annual flagship event, “Eureka- a PowerPoint presentation competition based on innovative ideas” on 11th January, 2025 for all the learners of Science Stream. A total of 10 teams participated in the event. The event encouraged participants to showcase their research-based knowledge and presentation skills on scientific topics. It also provided learners with an opportunity to explore emerging scientific trends, communicate complex ideas effectively, and enhance their public speaking skills. The event was judged by Dr. Rupesh Yadav (Assistant Professor, Dept. of Zoology) and Mr. Vipul Purohit (Assistant Professor, Dept. of Chemistry).The 1st place was won by team of Karan Bhatt (2404, FYBT), Vansh Kataria (2407, FYBT), Parthi Shah (2452, FYBT), Anjali Wakode (2442, FYBT). They presented the idea ‘Use of Fungi as biosensors’. 

The Department of Biotechnology organized a Career Orientation Seminar entitled, “Career Avenues in Industry” for BSc (Biotech) students on 10th February, 2025. The resource person, Mr. Santosh Upadhyay, (Head of Sales and Marketing, Chiron Behring Vaccines Pvt. Ltd.) provided guidance on career choices, industry trends, and skill development, helping learners navigate their professional journeys with confidence. A total of 61 learners of FYBSc, SYBSc and TYBSc Biotech attended the seminar. 

The Department of Biotechnology hosted its annual fest “Lakshyavedh – A Career Fair”, for BSc learners on 10th February, 2025. This Career Fair aimed at connecting learners with industry professionals, and academic mentors. The event provided insights into various career paths, skill development opportunities, and higher education prospects, helping learners make informed career decisions. Learners put up various stalls in the college gangway showcasing their research skills learnt during their curriculum along with some fun activities and food stalls.  Blood grouping, Microkala, Scientific art tattoo are some of them to name.  

The Department of Biotechnology in association with the National Facility for Biopharmaceuticals (NFB) organized a three-day hands-on DNA Barcoding workshop dated, 27th February, 2025 to 01st March, 2025 for all the learners of BSc (Life Sciences). The workshop served as a hands-on learning experience for learners and researchers interested in biotechnology and bioinformatics. The workshop was attended by 35 learners of FYBSc and SYBSc Biotech and SYBSc Botany.

The Department of Biotechnology in collaboration with the Department of Chemistry and Zoology organized a Competitive Exam Orientation session on 05th March, 2025. The resource person,   Mr. Lalji Kannonjiya, HOD, Institute for Advanced Studies (IFAS), Pune provided insights into various competitive exams like CSIR NET, IIT JAM, TIFR, MH CET preparation strategies, and time management techniques to support learners in their academic and professional aspirations. A total of 137 learners of all three classes of Biotech, Chemistry, Botany and Zoology attended the session.

“Smart Grow-Model Making Competition”, was organized under the CARRE initiative by the Department of Biotechnology on 06th March, 2025. This challenged the participants to create innovative models based on Greenhouse technology and its modalities. Participants explored scientific advancements in agriculture biotechnology, bioengineering, and environmental biotechnology, showcasing their understanding of complex concepts through creative models. The event encouraged research, critical thinking, and presentation skills among students. A total of 36 learners of TYBSc Biotech participated in team of 4 in this event. The first place was won by group of  Ms. Sanskruti Danawale (857, TYBT), Ms. Prajwal Saini (884, TYBT), Ms. Geeta Patel (883, TYBT) and Ms. Sara Rane (858, TYBT).

Department conducted 18 Hours Virtual Training Programme on “Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare” in association with National Zonal Championship, Makeintern and E-Cell IIT Hyderabad from 22nd November to 14th December, 2024. Thirty-three students participated and completed the Add-on Course.

A Business Proposal writing competition was organized on 5th March 2025 for the students of SYBSc (Biotech) to inculcate experiential learning and entrepreneurial skills. The projects were evaluated by Dr. Rakhi Pathak, Faculty of BMS. Total eleven teams participated. The winner was the team of Sneha Sharma (SYBSc, 1709), Priti Yadav (SYBSc,1708), Kaveri Maurya (SYBSc,1710), Disha Maurya (SYBSc,1707), Sonial Pathak (SYBSc,1711).

Three issues of the e-bulletin Biotech-Spectrum were published online during the year 2024-25.

Student Achievements:

• Somesh Mishra (TYBSc Biotechnology, 874) won the BEST STUDENT award (Male)  for the year 2024-25. 

• Ms. Sanskruti Danawale (857, TYBT) has been awarded International Student Scholarship EUR €10,000.00 (BURS033, Conditional Offer Letter) for admission to MSc Biotechnology & Business FT (X447) by the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Ireland

• Learners of TYBSc Biotechnology: Rushikesh Darwatkar (860), Mansi Mane (859), Khushi Chotaliya (871), Khushi Singh (872), and Niranjan More (873) were selected for the Zonal Round at the 19th Aavishkar: Research Convention, organized by the University of Mumbai, held at Ghanshyamdas Saraf College of Arts and Commerce, Malad, Mumbai on December 18th December, 2024.

• Sneha Sharma (SYBSc Biotechnology,1709), Priti Yadav (SYBSc Biotechnology,1708), Kaveri Maurya (SYBSc Biotechnology,1710), and Aditya Mathai (SYBSc Biotechnology,1731), were selected for the Zonal Round at the 19th Aavishkar: Research Convention, organised by the University of Mumbai, held at Swami Vivekanand College, Chembur on 13th December, 2025.

• Sneha Sharma (SYBSc Biotechnology,1709), Priti Yadav (SYBSc Biotechnology,1708), Kaveri Maurya (SYBSc Biotechnology,1710), and Aditya Mathai (SYBSc Biotechnology,1731) represented TCSC at the Final Round of Ideation Competition 2.0 organized by Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University on 15th February 2025.

• Aryan Sonmore (SYBSc BT, 1757) has successfully secured 3rd Prize at Mumbai Suburban Intercollegiate Chess Tournament held at Yashwantrao Chapekar College, Palghar from 28th to 30th August, 2025 and 2nd prize at Chess Tournament, Shivotsav 2024 organized by Seth Vidya Mandir High School and Junior College, Vasai on 6th and 7th December 2024.

• Grishma Harish Shetty (FYBSc BT, 2464) won the 2nd prize in the classical solo dance competition held at the College Fest Trishna and second place in Connoisseur Quest- Connexion organised by English Literary Association on 4th March 2025. 

• Dev Mehta (SYBSc Biotechnology, 1729) won the 1st prize in Paryavaran Mitravat, organised by Green Club, TCSC on 1st February, 2025.

• Karan Bhatt (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2404) has successfully secured 3rd prize in A.D Shroff Memorial Elocution Competition organized by A.D. Shroff Memorial Trust With Forum Of Free Enterprise at TCSC on 26th August, 2024, and won Certificate of Merit in Livemint Debate Competition organized by the Student Council, TCSC on 29th November, 2025. 

• Sudhanshu Jadhav (TYBSc Biotechnology, 870) won the 1st prize in the Cartooning competition at the College Fest Trishna.

• Nityanand Tiwari (SYBSc Biotechnology, 1730) won the 1st prize in the Poster competition held at the College Fest Trishna.

• Niyati Kuwalekar (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2470) won the 2nd prize in Down and Across and 2nd prize in Stan the pages at Connexion organised by the Department of Business Communication, TCSC on 4th march, 2025, won 2nd prize in Kitchen Chemistry and Bibliophile at Chemtastic organised by Department of Chemistry, TCSC on 28th February, 2025.

• Niyati Kuwalekar (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2470) and Suzanne Iroy (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2467) have secured 2nd prize in the Slide Masters Presentation Competition organised by the Department of Business Communication, TCSC on 24th February, 2025.

• Vansh Kataria (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2407) won the 1st  prize, and  Sneha Sharma (SYBSc Biotechnology,1709) won the  2nd prize at Vachan Sankalpa Maharashtra, Book Review Competition organised at Thakur College of Science and Commerce on 22nd  January, 2025.  

• Jitesh Maakutty (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2425) secured the consolation prize in the Essay Writing Competition organised by Dept. of Business Communication, TCSC on 11th July, 2024. 

• Suzanne Iroy (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2467) won the 1st prize in `Tales Untold’ - Story writing competition organised by English Literary Association and Department of Business Communication, TCSC on 18th January, 2025.

• Neha Vilas Sawant (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2427) 2427 won the 1st prize in Dance Competition held on the occasion of Marathi Bhasha Diwas, organized by Marathi Association, TCSC on 27th February, 2025.

•  Parthi Shah (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2452) won the 2nd prize in Art Competition and exhibition on the occasion of ‘Ganesh Chaturthi’ organised by `Marathi Association, TCSC on 5th September 2024.

• Archit Shinde (SYBSc Biotechnology, 1722) won the 1st prize in the book talk competition organised by the Department of Library, TCSC on 11th January, 2025.

• Aryan Mishra (FYBSc Biotechnology 2436), Sneha Pal (FYBSc Biotechnology 2485), Aastha Patel (FYBSc Biotechnology 2481)  won the 1st prize at ORIGIN Science exhibition Competition organised by the Department of Physics on  18th of February 2025.

• Niyati Kuwalekar (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2470), Karan Bhatt (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2404), Neha Sawant (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2427) won the 2nd prize at ORIGIN Science Exhibition Competition organised at TCSC on  18th February 2025. 

• Dev Mehta (SYBSc biotechnology, 1729), Vaibhav Panchal (SYBSc biotechnology,1735) and Aryan Sonmore (SYBSc BT, 1757) won the  3rd prize at ORIGIN Science Exhibition Competition organised at TCSC on 18th February 2025

• Karan Bhatt (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2404), Vansh Kataria (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2407), Parthi Shah (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2452), Anjali Wakode (FYBSc Biotechnology, 2442) won the 1st prize in Eureka Powerpoint Competition organized by Department of Biotechnology, TCSC on 11th January, 2025.

• Aditya Mathai (SYBSc Biotechnology, 1731), Om Zaware (SYBSc Biotechnology, 1733) and Purvesh Bhatt (SYBSc Biotechnology, 1732) won the 2nd prize in Eureka Powerpoint Competition organized by the Department of Biotechnology, TCSC on 11th January, 2025.

• Aryan Mishra (FYBSc Biotechnology 2436), Sneha Pal (FYBSc Biotechnology 2485), Aastha Patel (FYBSc Biotechnology 2481) won the  3rd prize in Eureka PowerPoint Competition organized by the Department of Biotechnology, TCSC on 11th January 2025.

• Supriya Mishra (T.Y.B.Sc Biotechnology, 876) and Kashish Sakpal (T.Y.B.Sc Biotechnology, 881) completed a three-day “Practical Workshop on Molecular Techniques for Identifying Marine Organisms and Metabolite Profiling via Chromatography” organised by the National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, from 27th Nov to 29th Nov, 2024.

• Supriya Mishra (T.Y.B.Sc Biotechnology, 876) completed an internship at Kamla Life Sciences Ltd. from 2nd May to 15th June, 2024.

• Thirty-three students of B.Sc. Biotechnology completed an 18-hour Vitrual Training Programme on “Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare” held from 22nd November to 14th December, 2024, in association with National Zonal Championship, Makeintern and E-Cell IIT Hyderabad.

Teachers Achievements:

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh has been appointed as the VC nominee by the University of Mumbai for the Board of Studies in Biotechnology, Patkar College & Jhunjhunwala College, Mumbai. 

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh completed the Hands-on Training Program on `DNA Sequencing Using Ion Torrent NGS Platform and Data Analysis’ organized by Central NGS Facility, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai from 4th to 11th December 2024.

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh was invited as the Chairperson for the Technical Posters and Research Paper Presentation at the International Conference on Advances in Information Technology and Management `Leveraging Information Technology for Sustainability in Agriculture and Healthcare’ on 8th February 2025. 

• Shweta Sharma completed a one-year e-Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology (eLearning Program) in December 2024 from the Indian Institute of Public Health, Delhi, Public Health Foundation of India.

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh published a research paper on `Therapeutic Potential of Natural Antioxidants in Management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Review of Selected Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds’ in  African Journal of Biomedical Research, Vol. 27, Issue 4S, Dec 2024; 14860 - 14867. (Scopus).

• Shweta Sharma and Dr. Aparna Deshmukh published a research paper on “Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning for drug-resistant tuberculosis: Recent advances in India” in African Journal of Biomedical Research, Vol. 27, Issue 4S, 13411–13418. (Scopus).

• Shweta Sharma and Dr. Aparna Deshmukh presented a research paper on “Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning for drug-resistant tuberculosis: Recent advances in India” at the National Conference “Emerging Trends in Developing India: A Vision for the Future” organized by Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Sports Science and Actuarial Science, TCSC on 14th December, 2024.

• Shweta Sharma and Dr. Aparna Deshmukh participated in the “National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) awareness workshop” held on 14th November 2024 at Thakur College of Science and Commerce, Kandivali, Mumbai.

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh, Shubha Govil, Shweta Sharma and Aradhya Walinjkar participated in the Symposium on 'Future of HEI's in the light of NEP- 2020' held on August 31, 2024 at Thakur College of Science & Commerce.