CSIR-IIIM Srinagar Concludes Three-Day Skill Development Program
on Drug Discovery & Biomedical Research
18/02/2026
Srinagar, February 18 (KIP)-The three-day Skill Development Program on Drug Discovery and Biomedical Research concluded successfully at the CSIR-IIIM Srinagar Branch. The hands-on training program, organized by CSIR-IIIM Srinagar Branch under the CSIR-Integrated Skill Initiatives, focused on practical laboratory techniques in biological assays and in vivo mice experiments. It brought together early-career researchers, laboratory professionals, and students for intensive skill development.
The program was organized by Dr. Fayaz Malik, Chief Scientist, along with his research group, who provided participants with hands-on training in drug discovery and biomedical research. The sessions on biological assays and mice experiments offered practical exposure to experimental design, assay execution, data collection, and ethical conduct of small animal studies.
Over three days, participants completed a structured sequence of laboratory modules. Day 1st focused on assay design and in vitro techniques. Participants learned about assay selection and optimization, sample preparation, cell-based assay setup, and quantitative readouts using spectrophotometric and plate-based methods. Special emphasis was placed on controls, reproducibility, and data integrity.
Day 2nd included hands-on training in biological assays and analytical methods. The sessions covered advanced biological assays, dose-response analysis, basic pharmacokinetic sampling and interpretation of assay results. Practical sessions included ELISA, enzymatic activity assays and troubleshooting common assay-related issues.
Day 3rd introduced ethical considerations in animal studies, including animal handling, dosing techniques, sample collection, and endpoint assessments. Participants practiced humane handling, accurate dosing, and collection of biological samples for further analysis, strictly following biosafety and animal welfare standards.
Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM Jammu and holding additional charge of CSIR-CIMAP Lucknow, addressed the participants through a virtual message. He congratulated the organizers and trainees and highlighted the importance of integrating rigorous laboratory practices with translational research.
He emphasized that proficiency in assay validation, appropriate animal model selection, and robust data management is essential for advancing drug discovery pipelines and producing reliable, publishable results.
Er. Abdul Rahim, Head, IIIM Srinagar Branch and Chief Scientist, RMBD & IST, also addressed the valedictory session virtually. He appreciated the practical orientation of the program and reiterated the branch’s commitment to strengthening local capacity in preclinical research. He stressed the need for standardized protocols, quality assurance in biological assays, and strict adherence to regulatory and ethical guidelines in animal studies.
Dr. Fayaz Malik thanked the faculty members, technical staff, and participants for their active participation. He said the interactive modules were designed to rapidly upgrade the skills of attendees in techniques directly relevant to drug discovery workflows.
Dr. Reyaz Ul Hassan, Senior Principal Scientist, highlighted the importance of careful experimental planning and proper documentation in translating laboratory findings into actionable research leads. Dr. Muzamil Ahmad, Principal Scientist, also addressed the closing session and shared practical insights on data analysis and quality control that participants can immediately apply in their laboratories.
The program was coordinated by Dr. Nasir ul Rasheed, Nodal Officer, Skill Development, under the CSIR-Integrated Skill Initiatives. The training forms part of CSIR’s broader effort to bridge academia and industry through targeted, job-oriented skill development programs.