SRINAGAR: The CSIR–Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Srinagar Branch, successfully concluded its three-day Skill Development Training Programme on quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The programme brought together around 20 participants from across India, including students, research scholars, and laboratory professionals, intending to strengthen practical competencies in advanced molecular biology techniques.
The training was meticulously designed to provide participants with comprehensive, bench-level proficiency in gene expression analysis—from sample preparation to result interpretation. Over three intensive days, participants were guided through the complete experimental workflow. The programme commenced with detailed sessions on RNA isolation, focusing on high-quality extraction, contamination control, and yield optimisation. Participants were also trained in Good Laboratory Practices, with special emphasis on reproducibility, contamination prevention, and quality assurance protocols.
The programme featured extensive wet-lab training in RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, and qRT-PCR, along with interactive troubleshooting clinics and data interpretation workshops, underscoring CSIR-IIIM’s commitment to capacity building in cutting-edge molecular techniques.
Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM, who attended the valedictory session as Chief Guest, highlighted qRT-PCR as a transformative technology shaping advancements in agriculture, healthcare, and applied life sciences. He noted its growing relevance in diagnostics, translational research, climate resilience, and public health. Encouraging participants to apply their newly acquired skills, he stated that mastering such technologies contributes to India’s broader vision of technological empowerment under “Viksit Bharat @ 2047.”
Dr. Nasheeman Ashraf, Senior Principal Scientist and Programme Organiser, delivered the concluding remarks and urged participants to integrate advanced molecular tools into their professional work to strengthen national research capacity. The programme was co-organised by Dr. Syed Riyaz Ul Hassan, Senior Principal Scientist, and Dr. Phalisteen Sultan, Principal Technical Officer, who led the hands-on laboratory sessions.
The valedictory function was attended by Dr. Fayaz Malik, Chief Scientist; Dr. Qazi Parvaiz, Senior Principal Scientist; along with other senior scientists, technical and administrative staff of CSIR-IIIM Srinagar Branch. The programme was conducted under the overall patronage of Er. Abdul Rahim, Chief Scientist and Head, CSIR-IIIM Srinagar Branch, and coordinated by Dr. Nasir Ul Rasheed, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer for Skill Development. The session was moderated by Dr. Ishfaq Majid Hurrah, Project Associate-I.