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.
