Induction programme for January and August 2026 batches highlights the importance of scientific research, innovation and multidisciplinary approaches in drug discovery
Lucknow: The CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR-CDRI), Lucknow, organized “SHODHARAMBH: Induction Ceremony” today to formally welcome the 84 newly inducted Ph.D. research scholars of the January 2026 and August 2026 batches. The programme marked the beginning of a new phase in the academic and research journey of the scholars and provided them with an opportunity to understand the research ecosystem and academic environment of CSIR-CDRI.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the illumination of knowledge and the beginning of a new academic and scientific journey. The ceremony was attended by scientists, faculty members and research scholars of the Institute.
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Ritu Trivedi, who extended a warm welcome to the newly inducted research scholars and encouraged them to make the best use of the academic, scientific and research facilities available at the Institute. She emphasized the importance of dedication, scientific curiosity and perseverance in pursuing doctoral research.
Dr. Sanjeev Yadav presented an overview of the SHODHARAMBH induction programme, highlighting its objectives and significance in acquainting the newly inducted scholars with the academic and research environment of CSIR-CDRI. He also outlined the various components of the programme designed to provide the scholars with a broader perspective on doctoral research and professional scientific development.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Dipak Datta highlighted the importance of this induction programme in the early stage of a research scholar’s journey. He emphasized that doctoral research is not only about acquiring specialized knowledge but also about developing scientific thinking, research ethics, interdisciplinary perspectives and the ability to address challenging scientific problems. He also briefly introduced the invited speakers and their areas of expertise, setting the context for the scientific sessions.
As part of the programme, Dr. Jiaur R. Gayen delivered a scientific lecture on “Pharmacokinetics: A Key Component of Drug Discovery and Development.” He explained the importance of pharmacokinetics in understanding the behaviour of drug molecules in the body and highlighted its role in different stages of drug discovery and development. The session provided the newly inducted scholars with insights into how pharmacokinetic considerations contribute to the development of safe and effective therapeutic candidates.
The second scientific lecture was delivered by Dr. Aamir Nazir on “From Molecule to Medicine: Regulatory Toxicology in the Drug Discovery and Development Journey.” He highlighted the importance of regulatory toxicology in evaluating the safety profile of drug candidates and discussed its significance in the journey from a promising molecule to a potential medicine. The session provided an overview of the critical role of safety assessment and regulatory considerations in pharmaceutical research and development.
The scientific sessions offered the newly inducted scholars an opportunity to appreciate the multidisciplinary nature of drug discovery, where diverse areas of science come together to translate basic research findings into potential therapeutic applications.
The programme also included the introduction of the newly inducted research scholars of the January and August 2026 batches, providing an opportunity for interaction and familiarization among the scholars and members of the Institute’s scientific community.
The event concluded with a group photograph followed by a tree plantation activity. The plantation activity symbolized the beginning of a new journey for the research scholars while reinforcing the importance of environmental responsibility and sustainability under the green initiative of Institute.
The SHODHARAMBH: Induction Ceremony reflects CSIR-CDRI’s continued commitment to nurturing young scientific talent and creating an enabling environment for advanced research and academic excellence. Through structured academic programmes, scientific interactions and exposure to multidisciplinary research, the Institute continues to contribute towards developing skilled human resources for research, academia and the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The programme encouraged the newly inducted scholars to embark on their doctoral journey with scientific curiosity, integrity, innovation and a commitment to addressing challenges of societal and national relevance.
