Expressnews
KATTANKULATHUR,
SRM College of Pharmacy, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Scitus Pharma Services, among the pioneers of speed and quality in clinical research, and a leading contract research firm based out of Chennai.
The MoU will pave the way for SRM College of Pharmacy (SRMCP), a part of SRM Institute of Science and Technology, to engage in collaborative research projects, including including joint research initiatives and knowledge exchange of best practices for continuous improvement and innovation, with focus on social relevance, and healthcare initiatives.
Support to Startups:
The agreement will also foster facilitation of technology transfer from Scitus Pharma to SRMCP and vice-versa which including licensing agreement for Intellectual Property, joint development of technology and commercialization of products. The aspect of skill development is the focal point for both students and faculty by introducing training programmes, workshops, internships, and industrial placements to be conducted by SRMCP and Scitus Pharma together. In addition, exchange of innovative concepts and entrepreneurship development by undertaking joint products which involves support for startup, R&D funding and networking opportunities between Industry personnel and students, faculty in a long-term partnership will also be made possible.
The MoU will leverage strengths of both institutions to drive innovation, promote knowledge exchange, and contribute to societal development while creating value for both academia and industry. Students of Pharmacy and Pharma Technology and related courses can benefit from a direct collaboration with an industry player like Scitus Pharma with focus on practical experience through internships and industrial placements, applying theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios and developing relevant skills to help help in acquiring industry insights, drug development, regulations, and quality control. Collaborating with Scitus professionals will help in networking opportunities, mentorship, and potential job prospects.
Skill Development:
Students can also develop communication and project management skills, learn teamwork, problem-solving, along with industry-specific knowledge. It will help in enhancement of their employability, opening up career opportunities in pharmaceutical sector. Moreover, this will also inspire entrepreneurial endeavors, offering insights into commercialization processes and providing access to funding and mentorship for launching ventures.
Graduates in pharmaceutical studies will have diverse career opportunities within the industry and can work in research and development, contributing to discovery of new drugs and formulations, or in regulatory affairs, ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Quality control and assurance roles involve maintaining product safety and efficacy. Clinical research positions involve conducting trials and studies. Alternatively, graduates can pursue academia, teaching and researching in Universities. Entrepreneurial-minded individuals can start their own pharmaceutical companies or consultancy firms, developing innovative solutions to industry challenges. These career paths offer opportunities for graduates to make significant contributions to the pharmaceutical sector and address unmet needs in healthcare.
Further, the tie-up will enhance students’ readiness for the pharmaceutical industry through diverse initiatives. Internship and training programs by Scitus Pharma will offer hands-on experience. Career counseling by the Industrial personnel will aid the students in identifying strengths and interests. Professional development workshops will help in covering industry trends and technologies. Mentorship programs offered by Scitus will help in connecting students with industry professionals for guidance along with Scholarships and awards which incentivizes excellence. These efforts collectively prepare students for successful careers in the pharmaceutical sector by providing practical skills, industry insights, and support for their professional growth.
The internships for final year projects will offer students valuable opportunities for hands-on experience, skill development, and industry exposure. The decision between pursuing a lucrative career in industry or opting for academia and research depends on individual interests, career aspirations, and long-term goals. With India increasingly becoming a global leader in pharmaceutical research and academic excellence coupled with a growing number of publications, prestigious academic institutions, and significant contributions to scientific literature, the country is poised for continued growth and recognition on the world stage and such industry-academia tie-ups will usher in plenty of opportunities for youth in this sphere.
Dr. Rajendran, S. D, Director, and Head, Scitus Pharma Services Pvt. Ltd., while speaking on the occasion, shared the possibilities for them to plan the future in a more coordinated way between the SRMIST and Pharma industry. Dr. S.Ponnusamy, Registrar, Dr. V.Chitra, Dean, Dr. N. Damodharan, Vice Principal, and Heads of Various Departments of SRMCP were also present.
