Building the Future: Advancing Research Facilities at Ashoka

AGRA aims to expand Ashoka University’s academic and research impact by offering industry-relevant professional courses to address the needs of India’s workforce, particularly in science and technology. This approach opens the university’s capabilities and resources not only to students and researchers but also to the professionals and workforce of our country.

The development of a Professional Course in Advanced Microscopy, a collaboration between Ashoka University and Carl ZEISS Germany, is reflective of this ambition. The course will provide comprehensive theoretical and practical training in microscopy techniques, equipping participants with skills for clinical research, diagnostics, product development, and manufacturing.

AGRA is also exploring other advanced research capabilities at the University to develop new and unique professional courses aligned with industry demands. Some of our notable initiatives over the last year include securing and developing a partnership with Zeiss Microscopy India to develop the Ashoka-Zeiss Core Imaging Facility that was launched in December 2024 in the presence of Nobel Laureate Professor Jack Szostak, Professor Yamuna Krishnan and Professor Priyamvada Natarajan.

Another project in progress is the development of the Infosys Foundation Advanced Chemical Biology laboratory, which will support research across several areas at Ashoka and open possibilities for new research programmes and collaboration. AGRA is working actively to support Ashoka University’s vision of globalising ‘Sciences at Ashoka’ by collaborating with stakeholders to establish a centralised research facility management system.

This system will streamline the management of instrumentation, laboratories, and infrastructure, aligning them with the University’s strategic goals in terms of scientific research. It will optimise resource utilisation through structured scheduling, maintenance, and training programmes while prioritising the acquisition of advanced instruments to meet emerging research needs.

The system will also enable domestic and international research collaborations by providing high-quality shared facilities. A dedicated team will oversee operations, ensuring smooth functioning, compliance with institutional policies, and accountability to the University’s leadership.

AGRA’s efforts are shaping Ashoka University into a hub where cutting-edge research meets real-world impact. As Ashoka continues to strengthen its research ecosystem, it is paving the way for innovation, discovery, and meaningful contributions to science and society.