A three-day National Training Program on “BIOINFORMATICS: BASICS, METHODOLOGY & APPLICATIONS” commenced today at the University of Jammu, jointly organized by the National Academy of Sciences India (NASI), Jammu Chapter, and the Department of Botany, University of Jammu. The event began with enthusiasm, drawing participants and experts from various regions.

Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) Jammu, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Prof. Anju Bhasin, Dean of Academic Affairs, University of Jammu, was the Guest of Honor. In his address, Dr. Ahmed emphasized the growing significance of computational biology in drug discovery and agricultural innovations, highlighting the pivotal role of bioinformatics in scientific advancements. Prof. Bhasin underscored the importance of big data analytics and the application of informatics tools in addressing societal challenges.

Earlier in his welcome address, Prof. Susheel Verma, Head, Department of Botany, spoke about the transformative impact of bioinformatics on biological sciences and its relevance in designing novel research methodologies. Prof. Namrata Sharma, Coordinator of the event, provided an overview of the program, setting the stage for an intensive learning experience.

Prof. R.N. Gohil, Secretary, NASI Jammu Chapter, outlined NASI’s initiatives and its contributions to academia and society. He also highlighted various efforts undertaken by the NASI Jammu Chapter to inspire students and faculty from Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.

A formal vote of thanks was extended by Dr. Sikander Pal, Coordinator of the event, acknowledging the support of NASI and the Office of Dean Academic Affairs. The event proceedings were conducted by Ms. Bhubneswari Khajuria, a research scholar.

The training program has attracted 30 participants, selected on a merit basis from 80 applications received which includes 8 faculty members, 19 research scholars, and 3 M.Sc. students from Jammu, Kashmir, and Punjab. Over the next three days, participants will benefit from three invited lectures and seven practical sessions, offering hands-on experience in bioinformatics applications.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by  Prof. Yash Pal Sharma, Dean, Faculty of Life Sciences, Prof. Seema Langer, Head, Department of Zoology, Prof. Sanjana Kaul, Director, School of Biotechnology, along with faculty members from various life sciences departments.