An International Webinar on Phytochemistry 2020 organized by Kerala Academy of Sciences from September 28-29, 2020, witnessed strong participation from the Amrita School of Biotechnology (ASBT). The webinar was organized on the Google Meet platform, with invited lectures and presentations from Pioneers and young researchers in Phytochemistry and Allied sciences.

Dr. Bipin Nair, Dean, Faculty of Sciences, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, was invited to deliver a special address in the introductory session. His session encompassed exemplary vision and observations on the multifactorial approach of phytochemical applications in Research at ASBT. His talk concentrated on modulating the interest of the delegates with accolades being presented for the outstanding research done in the School even at the valedictory address from Prof. P. R. Sudhakaran, Former Professor of Biochemistry and former President of KAS.

Dr. Asoke Banerji, Distinguished Professor of the School, was invited as a special guest in the interaction with the experts’ session. Dr. Banerji’s observations inspired the delegates and was felicitated as the Godfather of Phytochemistry.

Ms. Vidhya Prakash, Assistant Professor, School of Biotechnology, was awarded first prize in the oral presentation session. She was chosen for her elaborate studies in collaboration with Dr. Chinchu Bose, Assistant Professor, School of Biotechnology, on the investigation of synergy between probiotic strains and Oxyresveratrol extracted from underutilized coconut shells. Her work concentrated on exploring the synbiotic approach in improving functional health benefits.

Dr. Jayalekshmi H., Assistant Professor, School of Biotechnology, received the third prize for her remarkable studies done in Essential oil mediated control of antibiotic persister cells of the opportunistic pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Her work vindicated the essence of phytochemical applications to control drug-resistant pathogens.

It was indeed a tremendous representation of the School of Biotechnology in the webinar securing two best paper awards and establishing our significant contribution to the development of Science in the State.