GEMS Arts & Science College (Autonomous) jointly with Biotechnology Department, St.Mary’s College ( Autonomous), Thrissur organized the Lecture series Under the Scheme “ Popular Lecture Series in Biotechnology “ Sponsored by Department of Biotechnology , Government of India on 4th October 2025 at St.Mary’s college

GEMS Arts and Science College, in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology, St.Mary’s college , successfully conducted the  second and third  lecture in the Popular Lecture Series, sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, at  St.Mary’s college, Thrissur   on 4th October  2025 The program was held at the St. Joseph auditorium , St. Mary’s College(Autonomous), Thrissur, and it was inaugurated by the Sr.Dr.Santra Terese, Principal, St. Mary’s College(Autonomous), Thrissur

Inaugural function

The Second lecture in the series  was delivered by Dr. Suma Arun Dev, Principal scientist & Head Forest genetics and tree breeding, Forest biotechnology , KFRI Thrissur Kerala, on the topic “DNA tools for Timber Forensics.” In her lecture, Dr. Suma highlighted the importance of molecular biology techniques in addressing the challenges of illegal logging and timber trade. She explained how DNA-based tools can be effectively used to identify tree species and trace their geographic origin, thus providing strong scientific evidence in forest law enforcement and conservation efforts. She further elaborated on the methodologies used in DNA fingerprinting, barcoding, and genotyping for timber identification. These advanced tools not only help in preventing biodiversity loss but also play a vital role in ensuring sustainable forest management.

 

    

Sr.Dr.Santra Terese  Principal St.Mary’s collegev

inaugurating the session & the students participants

 

The Third lecture was delivered by Dr. Balagopalan Unni, Former. Chief Scientist,CSIR DSIR, Department of Science & Technology , Govt of India, on the topic “The functional properties of Insect natural and synthetic neuropeptides : a comparative study”. In his lecture , Dr. Balagopalan Unni provided a comprehensive overview of insect neuropeptides, highlighting their crucial roles in regulating physiological processes such as growth, reproduction, and behavior. The lecture also focused on a comparative analysis of natural and synthetic neuropeptides, emphasizing their structural differences, functional similarities, and potential applications.

   

Dr. Suma Arun Dev  & Dr. Balagopalan Unni delivering the lectures

 

                      Addressing the gathering by the Vice Chairman & Principal

The felicitation speeches were delivered by Dr.Anu P. A Head of the Department Biotechnology, Dr.Naveen Mohan ,Principal,, and Shri.M. Vasudevan Vice Chairman, GEMS Arts and Science College.They all appreciated the  program very much.   Dr.Sandhya  Balakrishnan, Principal Investigator of the project delivered the vote of thanks and special appreciation was given to the authorities of St.Mary’s college for hosting the function at their campus. The faculties and students from both the colleges and nearby colleges attended the function.The lecture was very much appreciated by the students of nearby colleges and the faculties attended the function.