Department of Biotechnology - Activities

Activities & Events conducted in the year 2025-2026

The Department of Biotechnology at Thakur College of Science and Commerce is committed to fostering scientific curiosity, innovation, and holistic development of the learners. During the academic year 2025–2026, the department organized a diverse range of academic, intellectual, and creative activities aimed at enhancing students’ critical thinking, analytical abilities, communication skills, teamwork, leadership and scientific temperament.

Department of Biotehnolgy in association with the Science committee organized a workshop for 12th std. students of VIBGYOR High School (Borivali West) on 20th June, 2025. The aim of the event was to generate interst for biotechnology in the students so as to enable them to make career decision in this field. Twenty students were present for the demonstrations in the Biotech laboratory such as Electrophoresis, Aseptic handling and DNA extraction carried out by TYBSc students of the department.

A Guest lecture on “Biotechnology of vaccines” by Dr. Sumant Karnik (Ph.D Biochemistry, Advisor, Head, Quality assurance and Projects, Haffkine Institute for testing, research and training and Director, National Plasma Fractionation Centre) was organized on 8th July, 2025. The event was attended by 179 students of FYBSc, SYBSc, and TYBSc Biotechnology. Dr. Karnik elaborated on the types of vaccines including live-attenuated, inactivated, subunit, conjugate, and the cutting-edge mRNA vaccines. He also discussed the role of recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering in modern vaccine production.

A Guest lecture on “Genetic Basis and Molecular Diagnostics of Cancer” by Dr. Amrit Kaur Kaler [MBBS, Ph.D. (Pathology), Molecular Biology and Genomics Fellow (HCG Cancer care); Certified Cancer Genomics and Precision Oncologist, Immunooncology (Harvard Medical School)], was conducted on 16th September, 2025. Dr. Amrit Kaur Kaler delivered an insightful and engaging talk and discussed the genetic mutations and molecular alterations associated with various cancers, the role of biomarkers in early diagnosis, and the latest advancements in genomic technologies. Dr. Kaler also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between molecular biologists, clinicians, and biotechnologists in cancer research and diagnosis.

The Department of Biotechnology organized `Eureka’, the annual PowerPoint presentation competition on 28th November 2025. The event has been designed to encourage students to develop innovative ideas addressing real-world scientific and societal challenges. A total of sixteen teams participated, presenting concepts related to environmental sustainability, biotechnology applications, and healthcare innovations. Participants were evaluated by the judges Mr. Abhijeet Ray (Head, Department of Investment Management) and Dr. Aparna Deshmukh (Head, Department of Biotechnology) who actively interacted with them providing valuable feedback to refine their ideas and develop a stronger scientific perspective. The event promoted innovation, scientific communication and problem-solving skills among students.

 Department conducted an inter-college student festival `Lakshyavedh’26’, a platform designed to encourage interdisciplinary thinking, focused learning, and innovative problem-solving providing students with opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in engaging and interactive formats. A total number of ninety students from various colleges of Mumbai participated in the annual fest in Biotechnology. The students crossed elimination rounds to each to the final rounds of various events under Lakshvedh’26.  The several events organised under Lakshyavedh’26 were as follows:

A personality development competition titled “Own Your Aura” was organized to help students build confidence, improve communication skills, and develop stage presence. A total of eight shortlisted students participated in the final round of the event. The competition consisted of multiple rounds including: Walk and Introduction Round, Talent Showcase Round & Question and Answer Round. The competition was judged by Asst. Prof. Ms. Prabhjot Kaur based on confidence, communication, personality, and overall performance. Winners: Ratnesh Pathak (M.Sc.-IT) & Unnati Chawda (M.Sc.-IT)

The department conducted an intercollegiate debate event titled “Word War I”, based on the Oxford-style debate format. The competition emphasized structured arguments, logical reasoning, and rebuttal skills. The event consisted of three rounds. A total of four teams (eight participants) participated in the final round of debate, demonstrating strong communication and analytical skills. The debate competition encouraged intellectual discussion and critical thinking among participants. Winner Team: Ratnesh Pathak & Sarah Khan (M.Sc.-IT)
Best Speakers: Dev Mehta (B.Sc.-Biotech) & Sarah Khan (M.Sc.-IT)

Neuronexus (Neuroscience Event) event was focused on topics related to brain science, neural networks and cognitive processes. The objective of the event was to strengthen students’ understanding of neuroscience while encouraging analytical thinking. A total of six shortlisted participants actively took part in the final round of the competition. The event included several interactive rounds designed to test subject knowledge, logical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. Neuronexus provided an engaging academic platform for students interested in neurosciences.

An innovative escape room event titled “Last Breath” was organized as part of Lakshyavedh’26. The event combined solving scientific puzzles with teamwork and strategic thinking, logical reasoning, observation skills and effective communication to escape from the room within a fixed time limit. A total of seven teams with four members each  participated in the event. Winning Team: Dhruv Dodiya, Aman Mourya, Sharlin Shaikh, Batul Fatima.

Treasure Hunt event with the theme “Dungeons and Dragons” was designed to enhance teamwork, analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. The participants had to solve multiple clues and tasks to progress through different stages of the hunt. A total of six teams with four participants each participated with highly engaging and chanll. Winning Team: Aastha Singh, Deepika Nivatkar, Nabiha Khan, Tanvi Mhapankar

Flameless Flavour Fest was organized to promote innovation and creativity through the cooking-without-fire concept. Participants prepared nutritious and visually appealing dishes using only raw ingredients without any heating equipment. The judging criteria included taste, presentation, innovation, hygiene, and teamwork. A total of eleven participants participated in the competition judged by Dr. Shirley Agouwcha, Kerry Dsouza and Adv. Lata Singh. The event highlighted the importance of healthy eating, creativity, and teamwork. Winners: 1. Ankita Sharma & Priya Panja 2. Pranjali Satardekar & Shruti Goud

The department organized a unique event titled “64 Squares of Knowledge”, combining chess strategy with biology quiz questions. Participants were allowed to move chess pieces only after answering science-based questions correctly. The competition followed a one-on-one knockout format with rapid chess rules. A total of five participants made it to the final round of the event. The event effectively combined strategic thinking with scientific knowledge.Winner- Dhirendra Yadav

The department organized Biochroma and Waste Busters events on 29–30 January 2026 to encourage artistic expression and environmental awareness. These events successfully combined science, creativity, and sustainability awareness among students. The events included Poster Making, Face Painting, Rangoli Competition, Myth to Mutation & Waste Busters (Best Out of Waste).  

Alumni Interactions

Our distinguished alumnus Dr. Sanket Bapat, Associate Professor, Bioinformatics, MIT School of Bioengineering Sciences & Research, MIT-ADT University, Pune delivered a guest session for the learners of S.Y.B.Sc. (Biotechnology) and oriented them towards Research and other Career Opportunities in Biotechnology and the allied fields. Fifty-six learners attended the session on 20th February 2026. The session motivated the students and ignited enthusiasm in them which was reflected in their interactions with the resource person.

A seminar on “Sparkle- the Alumni Connect” by our distinguished alumnus Mr. Rodhan Patke (Pursuing PhD, University of Nottingham) was conducted on 18th July, 2025. The event was attended by 171 students of FYBSc, SYBSc, and TYBSc Biotechnology. Mr. Patke shared his academic and professional journey, beginning with his foundational years at Thakur College and his transition into international research. He elaborated on key career avenues in Biotechnology and also guided students on higher education abroad, research internships, publishing scientific work and preparing for competitive exams and scholarships.

A session on “Career scope in Stem Cell Technologies” by Ms. Unnati Tripathi (MSc in Stem Cell Technology and Regenerative Biology, Manipal University) was conducted on 21st July, 2025. Ms. Tripathi elaborated the fundamental concepts of stem cells along with the translational potential of stem cells in modern medicine, particularly the areas like regenerative therapies, drug discovery and personalized medicine. A major highlight of the lecture was the detailed discussion on career avenues in the field of stem cell technology. Ms. Tripathi interacted with the students and guided them for career in this domain emphasizing the growing global demand for skilled professionals, internship opportunities, higher studies, and emerging start-ups in the sector of regenerative medicine.

These activities reflect the department’s commitment to providing a dynamic learning environment that nurtures creativity, scientific inquiry, and professional growth of the learners. The enthusiastic participation of students, dedicated efforts of faculty members and student organizers contributed significantly to the success of these programs. Through the events the department continues to promote innovation, interdisciplinary learning, and holistic student development.

Department’s Achievement: 

• Thakur College of Science and commerce, Department of Biotechnology was listed in “Best 10 Biotechnology Institutes in India” by ‘The Academic Insights’ Magazine published online & offline. 

Student Achievements: 

• Dev Mehta TyBSc (Biotech), selected for integrated Msc-Ph.D. Program Scholar at TIFR. 

• Ms. Sushmita Upadhyay (T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech) was selected for paid internship at Institute of Nuclear Medicine (INMAS), Ministry of Defence, DRDO, Govt. of India. 

• Mr Vaibhav Panchal successfully cleared TIFR JGEEBILS Entrance exam (2025) and was shortlisted for NCBS Institute, Bangalore

• Ms. Sneha Sharma and Ms. Priti Yadav (T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech) presented an oral research paper at the International Conference on Recent Trends in Bioengineering (ICRTB 2026) held at MIT School of Bioengineering & Research, Pune on 23rd -24th January, 2026. 

• Mr. Om Rajkumar Zaware (T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech) Published a Science Fiction book entitled "Earth 6579" 

• Ms. Grishma Shetty (S.Y.BSc. Biotech) was awarded Consolation Prize in Indian Classical Dance competition at 58th Inter-Collegiate Cultural Youth Festival 2025-26, University of Mumbai on 27th September, 2025.

• Mr. Ritik Kumar Yadav (TY.B.Sc. Biotech) anchored an event of Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad on the occasion of Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti (19th February 2026) .

• Mr. Purvesh Nilesh Bhatt (T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech)  and Mr. Om Rajkumar Zaware (T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech)  completed 6 days hands-on online Workshop on “Computer-Aided Drug Design’’ organized by codon Biosciences Pvt Ltd .  (8th–13th September 2025)           

• Ms. Sania Akhtar Khan, Ms. Shachi Deepak Nagpal (T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech) completed in a one-day hands-on workshop on Bioprocess Technology, organized by Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM’s NMIMS, on 31st January 2026.

• Ms. Shachi Deepak Nagpal (T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech) completed a one-day hands-on workshop on Animal Tissue Culture, organized by Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM’s NMIMS, on 22nd November 2025.

• Ms. Shachi Deepak Nagpal (T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech) completed a one-day hands-on workshop on Basic Proteomics Workshop, organized by IIT, Bombay on 14th February 2025.

• Learners of T.Y.B.Sc. Biotech attended an International colloquium (INDIA-US) for installation of weather station collaborated with Bronx community college & the City of NEW YORK and City University of NEW YORK.

• Five Learners of S.Y.B.Sc. Biotech attended a hands-on-training program on Real time PCR and applications conducted by ICAR-CIFE, Mumbai from 17-19th February, 2026.

• Thirteen Learners of S.Y.B.Sc. Biotech attended a workshop on Advances in Bioengineering conducted by MIT-ADT university, Pune on 24-25th February, 2026.

• Ms. Anmol Shetty (F.Y.B.Sc. Biotechnology) successfully completed Two year Diploma in Operation Theatre Technology in June, 2025 under the scheme of Additional Skill Qualification Training Programme (ASQTP) by the Government of India.

• Seven Learners of S.Y.B.Sc. attended a workshop on Protein biochemistry at Karnik Pathology Laboratory, Mumbai from 3rd -5th November, 2025.

• Four Learners of F.Y.B.Sc. attended a workshop on ‘Bioinformatics in Cancer Research’ and ‘Genomics and Personalised Medicine’ by Ethical Edufabrica Pvt Ltd in association with AUXESIS, JJ Hospital, Mumbai on 27th-28th December, 2025.

Teachers’ Achievements: 

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh was awarded the Academic Excellence Award 2025 by the `Scientific Research Reports’ Publication.

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh was appointed as the VC Nominee for the BOS of Biotechnology Department, Patkar College for the year 2025-26.

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh was invited as a guest speaker for a Live telecast session on the  program “Sakhi Sayadri” aired on 18th September, 2025 on the topic “Bhavishyatil Vigyaan: Jaivtantragyanatil Sandhi”.

• Ms. Shweta Sharma: Approval of topic of thesis for Ph. D. in Biotechnology by University of Mumbai. 

• Mr. Aradhya Walinjkar was selected for Ph.D. with scholarship at NMIMS School of Life Sciences.

• Mr Kartik Kadam cleared MH-SET (2025) examination in June, 2025.

Participation in Workshop/ Seminar/ Conferences:

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh participated in online session on “Mastering the Binary and MBGL Model for Autonomous College” on 21st to 23rd August, 2025 organized by IQAC Cluster Team.

• Ms. Shubha Govil in the MSFDA Faculty Development Program “Technology for Active Learning in Higher Education” from 19th Augaust to 21st August, 2025 organized atHansraj Jivandas College of Education, Mumbai in collaboration with Symbiosis International (Deemed University). 

• Ms. Shweta Sharma participated in the Two Days National Conference on “Reviving Viksit Bharat@2047: Integrating Inclusive Growth with the Wisdom of Ancient India” on 3rd and 4th November, 2025 organized at Government P.G. College, Chamba (HP) and presented a research paper on the topic “Technology-Enabled Strategies to Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance: The Indian Perspective.”

Patents:

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh was granted the patents on the topic ‘Nanotechnology Based Antimicrobial Bandage Dispensing Device’, Application Number: 456319-001 filed on 25th April, 2025.

• Dr. Aparna S. Deshmukh: was granted a patent on `AI Based Non Invasive Device for Glucose Monitoring for Diabetes Patients’ by Govt. of India (dated 18/12/2025).

Research Papers:

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh authored a research paper publication on “Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity of Different Parts and Varieties of Zea Mays L. (Corn).” in African Journal of Biomedical Research Vo. 27 No. 2 (2025).

• Dr. Aparna Deshmukh co-authored a research paper on `Biomedical Applications of Metallic and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles’ presented in International Conference on `Green Chemistry and Smart Nanomaterials for Sustainable Development (GCSNSD2026)’ held at Yashavantrao Chavan Institute of Science on 27th and 28th February 2026.

• Dr. Aparna S. Deshmukh co-authored a Research paper entitled `An Integrated In-Silico Framework for Therapeutic Target Identification in Retinoblastoma’ presented at the International Conference on Recent Trends in Bioengineering (ICRTB 2026) held at MIT School of Bioengineering & Research, Pune on 23rd -24th January, 2026. 

• Dr. Aparna S. Deshmukh co-authored a Research paper entitled `Synthesis, Characterization of N-phenylpropan-2-imine and its effect on the anti-oxidant and In-silico docking studies with(2S)-1-{2[(2S)-2,6-dicarboxy-2,3-dihydropyridin-4(1Hylidene] ethylidene} 5(βdgluco yransyloxy) -6-hydroxy- 2,3-dihydro-1H-indol-1-ium-2- carboxylate) published in the International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology, Volume 16 Issue 6s, March 2026.

Dr. Aparna Deshmukh

Head, Dept. of Biotechnology