Interdisciplinary research key to scientific innovation: OU Professor

The future of scientific innovation lies in interdisciplinary and translational research, where expertise from multiple disciplines is brought together to address complex societal and global challenges, said P. B. Kavi Kishor, Professor of Genetics at Osmania University.

Speaking at a seminar on “Interdisciplinary Research Planning and Funding Opportunities” organised by Dr. RVR NRI Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University) on Friday, Prof. Kishor stressed the need for closer collaboration among engineering, biotechnology, genetics, pharmacy, agriculture, environmental sciences, computer science and management to develop technologies with practical applications.

He said emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, bioinformatics, genomics and data analytics were transforming research in biotechnology, healthcare and agriculture. Engineering innovations, he noted, were driving advances in precision agriculture, disease prediction, genome analysis, intelligent diagnostics, biosensors and sustainable food production.

Prof. Kishor said multidisciplinary research projects were increasingly securing funding from Central agencies and urged faculty members to form interdisciplinary teams, identify emerging research areas and actively pursue externally funded projects. He also shared insights on proposal writing, research collaborations and technology translation.

Vice-Chancellor K. R. S. Sambasiva Rao described interdisciplinary research as a strategic priority for the university and called upon faculty members to integrate expertise across disciplines to develop solutions for healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability and digital technologies.

Pro Vice-Chancellor C. Naga Bhaskar emphasised the need for stronger collaboration with leading academic institutions, industry and funding agencies to improve research quality and attract sponsored projects.

Dean (Research and Development) K. V. Sambasiva Rao and Dean, School of Computer Studies, D. Sunitha, also spoke.

The seminar concluded with an interactive session on funding opportunities, proposal development, intellectual property, technology commercialisation and emerging research areas.