CSR: Infosys Foundation Invests Rs 27 Cr in Advanced Chemical Biology Lab at Ashoka University

Ashoka University to build a world-class Advanced Chemical Biology Lab at the campus to empower students to excel in science and research

BENGALURU (India CSR): Infosys Foundation, the philanthropic and CSR arm of Infosys, has partnered with Ashoka University to bolster scientific research capabilities with a grant of Rs 27 crore. This significant investment will facilitate the transformation of the university’s existing Chemical Biology Lab into a state-of-the-art facility, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for learning and research.

Established in 1996, the Infosys Foundation supports programs in the areas of education, rural development, healthcare, women empowerment, arts and culture, and destitute care.

Cutting-Edge Equipment to Empower Scientific Exploration

The newly established Advanced Chemical Biology Lab will be equipped with cutting-edge instruments, including:

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• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR): This technology allows for the analysis of the structure and dynamics of molecules, providing crucial insights for research in chemistry, biology, and materials science.
• Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDAX): This tool enables high-resolution imaging and elemental analysis of materials, aiding in research across various disciplines, including materials science, nanotechnology, and geology.
• High-resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM): HRTEM provides detailed images of the internal structure of materials at the atomic level, facilitating research in materials science, nanotechnology, and biology.
• Imaging Mass Cytometry: This technology allows for the simultaneous measurement of multiple protein markers within a single cell, enabling in-depth analysis of cellular processes and disease mechanisms.
• Spatial Nucleic Acid Hybridization System: This system enables the visualization and quantification of gene expression within tissues, providing valuable insights for research in developmental biology, neuroscience, and cancer research.

Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Scientific Progress

The Advanced Chemical Biology Lab is poised to become a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, attracting researchers from diverse fields and institutions. The lab will also host periodic courses, conferences, and workshops to promote knowledge sharing and foster a vibrant scientific community.

Somak Raychaudhury, Vice Chancellor of Ashoka University, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We are delighted to have Infosys Foundation join us in our vision to enhance scientific education at Ashoka University. This collaboration equips our students and faculty with cutting-edge resources, empowering them to excel in research and sciences. Together we hope to shape a future where interdisciplinary learning fuels India’s scientific progress.”

Sumit Virmani, Trustee of Infosys Foundation, highlighted the importance of STEM education, “Infosys Foundation believes that STEM education, especially at undergrad levels, moulds learners and helps them to participate in meaningful and contextualized ways in the real-world. We are delighted to collaborate with Ashoka University and help equip their Chemical Biology Lab with cutting-edge facilities. Through this initiative, we envision a future where Chemistry and Life Sciences education propels youngsters to nurture their potential in STEM-related fields.”

A Catalyst for Scientific Advancement in India

The Infosys Foundation’s investment in the Advanced Chemical Biology Lab at Ashoka University signifies a crucial step towards advancing scientific research and education in India. By providing access to cutting-edge equipment and fostering collaboration, this initiative has the potential to empower future generations of scientists and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries with a global impact.

(India CSR)