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Father Muller Research Centre Inaugurates Research Day 2026
Jun 16, 2026
Father Muller Research Centre (FMRC) organized Research Day 2026 on June 12, 2026, at the Decennial Memorial Hall, Knowledge Centre, Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), Kankanady, under the theme "Where Science Meets Society – Bridging Knowledge for Community Impact."
The event brought together academicians, researchers, faculty members, students, and healthcare professionals to celebrate research excellence and promote scientific inquiry aimed at benefiting society.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Prof. Dr. M. S. Moodithaya, Vice Chancellor, Nitte Deemed to be University, as the Chief Guest and Dr. Madhavi Bhargava, Professor of Community Medicine, Yenepoya Deemed to be University, as the Guest of Honour.
Also present on the dais were Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director, FMCI; Dr. Antony Sylvan D'Souza, Dean, Father Muller Medical College; Dr. Ramesh Bhat, Organizing Chairperson; and Dr. Shivashankara A. R., Organizing Co-Chairperson.
The programme commenced with a prayer song rendered by third MBBS students, followed by the welcome address and presentation of the report on Research Accomplishments of 2025, by Dr. Ramesh Bhat. The dignitaries then inaugurated the event with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.
A significant highlight of the programme was the release of the Research Bulletin 2025 by the Chief Guest, showcasing the institution's research accomplishments and scholarly contributions over the past year.
In his inaugural address, Prof. Dr. M. S. Moodithaya emphasized the importance of cultivating a robust research culture and translating scientific discoveries into tangible societal benefits and empowering young generation to be curious, competitive, collaborative and committed to their field of interest. Dr. Madhavi Bhargava highlighted the role of community-focused research in addressing public health challenges and improving healthcare delivery. She emphasized that research can be a tool to up bring the underprivileged section of the society.
The programme also recognized the achievements of faculty and students who secured Extramural Research Grants during 2025. The awardees were announced by Dr. Pauline Anand, Principal, Father Muller Allied Health Sciences College, Thumbay, and Joint Secretary of the Institutional Scientific Committee, while the certificates of recognition were presented by the Guest of Honour.
Awards for excellence in research presentations were announced by Dr. Anwesha Chatterjee, Scienist C, FMRC, who read out the winners in the oral presentation categories. Dr. Antony Sylvan Dsouza, Dean of FMMC presented the awards to the winners.
Subsequently, Dr. Priya D'Souza, Organizing Secretary of Muller Research Conclave 2026, announced the institutional research awards and honours. Among the prestigious recognitions presented during the ceremony, the Dr. Sanjeev Rai Award for Faculty Researcher was awarded to Dr. Abheesh Hegde, Department of Urology, Father Muller Medical College, while the Dr. Sanjeev Rai Award for Student Researcher was bagged by Mr. Renoy Antony Olivera, Department of Neurosciences, Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences (FMCOAHS). Emiratus Professor Dr Sanjeev Rai Awarded the awardees with the award.
The best researcher award for faculty and students in different categories and best department for different categories along with the coveted Overall Best Department Award was secured by the Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College (FMMC) in recognition of its outstanding research contributions and achievements during the year 2025 and was felicitated by Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director FMCI.
In his Presidential Address, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo reiterated the institution's commitment to fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and impactful research that addresses societal needs. Also, highlighted the profound connection between faith and science, emphasizing that both seek truth and contribute to the betterment of humanity. He reflected on how scientific advancements, guided by ethical values and compassion, can serve society and improve the quality of life. He encouraged researchers to pursue innovation with a sense of responsibility and commitment to the welfare of the community.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Shivashankara A. R., followed by the National Anthem.
The inaugural ceremony was efficiently compered by Ms. Nishal and Ms. Prathiksha Rai, ensuring the smooth conduct of the event along with the Organizing Secretary Dr Priya Swetha Dsouza and Joint Secretary Ms. Cleeta Rebeiro.
Research Day 2026 reaffirmed Father Muller Charitable Institutions' commitment to advancing research excellence and strengthening the bridge between scientific knowledge and community welfare.
