Paving the Way for Space Life Science Education in India
In celebration of National Space Day on 23rd August—declared by the Government of India with this year’s theme “Viksit Bharat in Orbit: Leading the New Space Race”—the Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University proudly hosted an insightful session as part of the ISRO-registered Space Tutor Program.
On 5th August 2025, we welcomed Dr. Shashikumar Rode, Metabolic Engineering Group Leader at the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, for an expert webinar titled: “Microgravity Experiments for Edible Microalgae on the International Space Station (ISS)”
Dr. Rode shared fascinating insights into: Space biology and the challenges of conducting research in microgravity. The potential of edible microalgae for long-duration space missions and space habitats in their critical role in upcoming Indian space missions such as Gaganyaan and the Bhartiya Antariksh Station. The session was both inspiring and thought-provoking for students and faculty from the Institute of Pharmacy and the Institute of Science, Nirma University.
A special thanks to Prof. Priti Mehta for organizing and coordinating the session, and to all attendees who contributed to making the event engaging and impactful. Let’s continue to foster interdisciplinary learning and inspire the next generation of scientists pushing the boundaries of research—on Earth and beyond!
