Post Graduate and Research Department of Microbiology and IQAC of Sree Sankara College, Kalady, in collaboration with the Microbiology Alumni Association organized a seminar series BIOSPECTRUM 2025 on the theme Automation in Microbiology, under the financial support of Sree Sankara College IQAC SMART SCHEME. The seminar was held at Sree Chandrashekhara Bharati Seminar Hall on 17-03-2025 with 103 participants. The event began with registration and refreshments, which were open from 9:30 AM to 10:15 AM, allowing participants to register and enjoy light refreshments before the inaugural session. The inaugural session commenced at 10.30 AM with the prayer song by Grace Abraham and Surya Bijukumar, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the enlightenment of knowledge. The welcome address was delivered by Ms. Greeshma Madhu (II MSc Microbiology Student),followed by introductory remarks by Dr. Manjula R, Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, who highlighted the event’s objectives. The inaugural address was delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Anilkumar M, Principal, Sree Sankara College, emphasizing the importance of automation in microbiology. This was followed by felicitation addresses from Smt. Gopika G, IQAC Coordinator, and Dr. Sunil M A, Application Specialist – Molecular Biology, Biomerieux India Pvt Ltd, who shared insights on microbiology automation and its role in modern diagnostics. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Nayan Juliya Saji (I MSc Microbiology Student), expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, and participants.
The technical sessions were the highlight of the event. The first session, led by Dr. Sreekanth R, Application Specialist – Immunoassay, Biomerieux India Pvt Ltd, delved into the role of immunoassays in automated diagnostics. He explained how advanced immunodiagnostic tools improve disease detection, minimize errors, and increase testing efficiency, making automation a critical component in modern clinical laboratories. The second session, featured a keynote address by Dr. Rijul Pathriyil, Senior Application Specialist – Bacteriology, Biomerieux India Pvt Ltd, who spoke on advancements in automated microbiology and its impact on clinical diagnostics, focusing on bacterial identification and antimicrobial resistance testing (AST). He highlighted how automation enhances efficiency, accuracy, and rapid diagnosis in clinical microbiology. The third session was an expert lecture by Dr. Sunil M. A., Application Specialist – Molecular Biology, Biomerieux India Pvt Ltd, who provided insights into automated molecular techniques, real-time PCR advancements, and their applications in research and clinical microbiology. He elaborated on their significance in disease detection, genetic research, and epidemiological studies, showcasing how automation has transformed molecular microbiology. Each session was followed by an engaging Q&A discussion, where students and participants actively interacted with the speakers, clarifying doubts and gaining deeper insights. A structured feedback form was distributed among participants.
In conclusion, Biospectrum 2025 successfully provided a platform for knowledge exchange, bridging academia and industry in the field of microbiology automation. The speakers’ valuable perspectives on automation in research, diagnostics, and industry inspired students and researchers to explor