SCB Medical College and Hospital's Biochemistry Department Gains University Research Centre Status

Significant Development in Medical Research

BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha University of Health Sciences (OUHS) has officially designated the biochemistry department of SCB Medical College and Hospital (MCH) at Cuttack as a university research centre, marking it as the second of its kind following the clinical hematology department.

During the recent conference of the State Biochemistry Association at Jagannath Medical College in Puri, Vice-chancellor Prof Manash Ranjan Sahoo announced this decision. This initiative is anticipated to not only boost research output but also extend access to enhanced resources and collaborative opportunities for both faculty and students.

Impact on Research Activities

Prof Sahoo emphasized the importance of this centre in advancing research capabilities for faculty members and post-graduate students, hinting at possible future PhD programmes within the department.

Established in 1963, the biochemistry department has a notable history of contributions to medical research. This new status is set to elevate its profile, reflecting its pioneering work in newborn screening and detection of congenital diseases.

Building a Centre of Excellence

Head of the department, Prof Pratima Kumari Sahu, expressed pride over this recognition and highlighted the intention to develop the department as a centre of excellence to attract scholars and researchers, thereby further enriching the academic environment.

Prof Sahoo added that increased support would empower researchers to engage in groundbreaking studies in partnership with both national and international medical institutes.