The Department of Biotechnology, Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh (CTUAP) successfully organized “BioNext 2026: From Lab to Life – Accelerating Academic Innovation in Biotechnology”, a one-day National Conference–cum–Workshop, on 11 February 2026 at the University Seminar Hall, Vizianagaram.
The programme was conceptualized to create awareness among undergraduate and postgraduate students, research scholars, and faculty members on the critical need to translate academic research into tangible societal and industrial outcomes. The event aligns with national priorities such as Startup India, Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Biotechnology Innovation and Research Advancement, emphasizing innovation-driven education and entrepreneurship. The seminar brought together eminent scientists, policy advisors, innovation leaders, academicians, and students from disciplines including Biotechnology, Botany, Microbiology, and Management (MBA), fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative learning.
In his inaugural address, the Registrar (In-Charge), CTUAP, highlighted the transformative role of biotechnology in addressing contemporary challenges in healthcare, agriculture, environment, and sustainable development. He emphasized the University’s commitment to promoting interdisciplinary research, innovation ecosystems, and industry–academia collaboration, particularly in the context of tribal and rural development, which remains central to CTUAP’s vision. The programme featured highly distinguished experts from premier national institutions:
- Chief Guest – Dr. D. Yogeswara Rao, Visiting Professor, University of Hyderabad, and Former Advisor, Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, delivered an insightful address on the importance of bridging the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications. He stressed that academic institutions must nurture robust innovation ecosystems that encourage technology transfer, startup incubation, and policy-aligned research outcomes for national development.
- Guest of Honor – Prof. Rajagopal Subramanyam, Director and Coordinator, ASPIRE- BioNEST, and Professor, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, highlighted the pivotal role of incubation centres and innovation platforms in converting laboratory discoveries into market-ready technologies.
- Keynote Speaker – Dr. Kondreddy Anil, Chief Executive Officer, ASPIRE-BioNEST, University of Hyderabad, delivered a comprehensive keynote on innovation pipelines in biotechnology. His address focused on practical pathways for commercialization, startup incubation models, funding mechanisms and regulatory frameworks.
- The programme witnessed active participation from a large number of students and faculty members, providing them exposure. The interactive sessions enabled students to directly engage with experts, clarify career pathways, and understand how academic research can be aligned with national innovation goals. The programme was coordinated by Dr.Parikipandla Sridevi, Head, Department of Biotechnology, CTUAP. All Heads of Departments, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students actively participated, making the
event a meaningful and impactful academic engagement.
BioNext 2026 stands as a significant step in strengthening CTUAP’s mission to promote innovation-led higher education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and socially relevant research in biotechnology.