A hands on training on ‘Advances in Microscopy’ was organised by the Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology (CIRCOT), Matunga from 16th to 18th January, 2017. Three students of M.Sc. Biotechnology part I were send for the training (Ms. Shweta Vijaykumar Kartha, Ms. Vaishnavi Uday Samant and Ms. Tanishka Suhas Bagwe). The opportunity was provided to the students through Prof. Gopakumar Pillai who was in communication with Dr. Vigneshwaran, Senior Scientist and Course Coordinator, CIRCOT. The training was of three days and covered types of light microscopy, Scanning electron microscopy and Atomic force microscopy. The principle, operation, sample preparation, methods and applications of various microscopy techniques were detailed and hands on practice were provided. The resource persons of various sessions were reputed professionals in the field of Microscopy. They provided the students in depth knowledge, hands on practice over microscopes and study materials. Refreshments were also provided for three days. Students were provided certificates on completion of the training. The students have been well benefitted with this training and have provided them advanced knowledge and skills in microscopy. One of the highlights of the program was that all the participants excluding the three students were Scientists, Academicians and Industry professionals. This gave a chance for the students to even interact with various specialists in the field. The students were very much motivated with the program. The initiative taken by Prof. Gopakumar Pillai was well appreciated by the Program Coordinator of CIRCOT and the Research Institute has extended their support to have customized programs for the students of our college. The department looks forward to strengthen this bond with CIRCOT and provide quality industrial training to students to help them have a bright career in Biotechnology.
