CSIR-CDRI Concludes Two-Day Symposium and 1st Alumni Meet, Celebrating Legacy and Fostering Mentorship
Lucknow: The CSIR–Central Drug Research Institute Lucknow, successfully concluded the two-day Symposium on “Drug Discovery and Development: Past, Present & Future” along with the 1st CDRI Alumni Meet-2025, marking a significant milestone in celebrating the Institute’s rich scientific legacy and strengthening alumni–institution engagement. For alumni, the gathering was a true homecoming—rekindling memories, renewing lifelong bonds, and reconnecting with the institution that shaped their scientific journeys.
The second day of the programme featured Alumni Talk Dr. Pankaj Seth, Scientist VII & Senior Professor at BRIC-NBRC, on the promise of human brain organoids for precision medicine; Dr. Ashok Jha of Cohance Life Sciences on India’s rise as a pharmaceutical CDMO hub driven by speed, scalability, and innovation; and Dr. Ravi Thakur from Christ University on targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in the tumor microenvironment.
During the panel discussion, distinguished alumni shared candid insights drawn from their professional journeys and experiences at CSIR-CDRI. Dr. Altaf Lal highlighted the importance of listening to diverse viewpoints, understanding the human side of science, and converting research outcomes into practical and implementable policies, urging young researchers to read widely, ask critical questions about their future, and take decisive action. Dr. Pankaj Seth, Scientist VII and Senior Professor at BRIC-NBRC, reflected on the highs and lows of a scientific career, stressing that success is built brick by brick with strong mentoring support from institutions like CSIR-CDRI, and reiterating that there are no shortcuts in research—challenges only strengthen the system when approached with perseverance and problem-solving intent. Dr. Dipak Datta emphasized the need to integrate fundamental basic research with translational science to achieve meaningful societal impact. Sharing her entrepreneurial journey, Dr. Ruchika Yogesh noted that CSIR-CDRI gave her the purpose to pursue a PhD and later entrepreneurship, underscoring that entrepreneurs must identify the right questions—those that solve problems for many—and build teams aligned with their vision and experience.
Dr. Radha Rangarajan, Director, CSIR-CDRI, reflected on the universal struggle of making choices, highlighting the power of belief, purpose-driven science for societal good, and the invaluable role alumni play in mentoring young researchers and strengthening the Institute.
Scientific highlights of the day included expert talks on human brain organoids and precision medicine, India’s growing prominence as a pharmaceutical CDMO hub, and metabolic vulnerabilities in the tumor microenvironment, offering forward-looking perspectives on contemporary challenges in drug discovery and development. The valedictory session also included the felicitation of poster award winners and judges, recognizing outstanding scientific contributions by young researchers.
The programme concluded with a student interaction session, where CSIR-CDRI research scholars and students engaged closely with distinguished alumni in candid discussions on career pathways, research choices, mentorship, and life beyond academia. This was followed by a vote of thanks by Dr. Hijas K.M., Co-Convener, and the National Anthem. A guided visit to the historic Chattar Manzil campus provided alumni an opportunity to revisit cherished spaces, making the event not only a scientific conclave but also an emotionally enriching experience of reconnecting with their roots.
