It is widely believed that the next industrial revolution is likely to be spurred by nanotechnology and biotechnology. Nanobiotechnology is a subject at the interface of the two. Nanobiotechnology promises remarkably new ways of diagnosis and treatment of diseases. A society for nanobiotechnology was formed during a national symposium that was organized at IIT Mandi last year. The society was registered and has been formally inaugurated by Dr. Priscilla Gonsalves during the 2nd national symposium on nanobiotechnology at IIT Mandi, Kamand campus on 9th December.
Leading experts from across the country presented their research work on various aspects of nanobiotechnology including policy issues, advances in bioimaging, nanomedicine and biomimetics. “It is highly fascinating to know how the tools of nanotechnology can be used for identifying emerging plagues” said Dr. Atanu Basu, from National Institute of Virology, Pune. A panel discussion was also held to decide on future course of action for the society. Dr. Kotnala, President of the society announced that the society will strive to promote applications of nanobiotechnology in agriculture and health research keeping in view of the challenges and opportunities before the nation.
The symposium will be followed by a workshop on transmission electron microscopy where intensive training will be given to selected participants to prepare samples, to do imaging and analysis using the advanced high resolution cryo-electron microscopy facility at IIT Mandi. TEM imaging is more of an art and there is a huge gap in the demand for trained manpower across the world in this area. “IIT Mandi is planning to organize such training events and develop advanced courses in electron microscopy to bridge the gap” said Dr. Prem Siril, Dr. Subrata Ghosh and Dr. Chayan Nandi, organisers of the workshop.
An exhibition of instruments by various instrument manufacturers was also held on the sidelines of the symposium.