Recognizing the growing need to develop a culture of scientific inquiry, innovation and collaborative research, the University of Kashmir (KU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Centre for Biological Sciences- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (NCBS-TIFR), Bangalore.

The MoU was signed between Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, and Director, NCBS-TIFR, Prof. L.S. Shashidhara at main campus KU in presence of senior academics, officers and researchers.

The MoU aims to facilitate joint research and development in disciplines of mutual interest, promote student and faculty exchange, and enable collaborative academic events including seminars, workshops, and conferences. The collaboration is expected to create new opportunities for scientific advancement and interdisciplinary learning.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan urged faculty members, scholars, and students to benefit from the academic and research opportunities under the MoU.

“This collaboration is going to be immensely beneficial for our academic community, especially students, to learn from leading experts in the field,” she said.

Dean Research KU, Prof. Mohammad Sultan Bhat, while congratulating the two institutions on this partnership, said, “This MoU marks a significant step in strengthening interdisciplinary and high-impact research at the University. It will allow our scholars to connect with one of the finest biological research centres in the country.”

Earlier, in his welcome address, Coordinator, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research & Innovations (CIRI), KU, Dr. Altaf Bhat, emphasized that the MoU would enhance collaborative efforts and open up new avenues of academic exchange and innovation.

Prof. L.S. Shashidhara Director, NCBS-TIFR, later delivered a colloquium lecture, reflecting on the scientific achievements of independent India.

The event was attended by Dean, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Prof. Manzoor Malik, faculty members, heads of departments, research scholars, and students.

The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr. Altaf Bhat, Coordinator CIRI KU, while Dr. Ajaz ul Hamid Wani, faculty at KU, proposed the vote of thanks.