BOTANY RESEARCH CENTRE
The Department of Botany at St. Mary’s College (Autonomous), Thoothukudihas been recognized as a Research Department since 2000 under the affiliation of ManonmaniamSundaranar University. The primary objective is to foster high-quality research and training at the forefront of Biological Sciences. While the department focuses on Plant Biology, its infrastructure supports research across various related fields, including Applied Chemistry, Biochemistry, Statistics, Marine Biologyand Animal Science. Research areas within the department span both classical disciplines and emerging fields such as Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology.
To facilitate advanced research, the department is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and sophisticated instruments, including PCR, FTIR, Gel Documentation Systems, AAS, UV-visible spectrophotometers, Analytical Centrifuges, Seed Germinator, Flame Photometer, a System-attached Trinocular Imaging Microscope, Rotary Vacuum Evaporator, Deep Freezers PAGE Apparatus, and Western Blotting Apparatus. The department also houses dedicated facilities such as a Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, a Bioinformatics Laboratory, and a Herbal Unit.
The department is supported by a team of highly qualified faculty members with doctoral degrees, who collaborate with researchers to address scientific inquiries and contribute innovative solutions. This strong research culture has led to significant contributions to the institution's overall research profile. The department has produced 17 Ph.D. graduates and completed two UGC-sponsored Major Research Projects, three Minor Projects, and several student research projects funded by TNSCST.
Access to online resources through the N-List, along with equipment funded by the DST-FIST and DBT Star College schemes, further enhances the department's ability to tackle scientific challenges at both national and international levels.
The department also plays an active role in organizing seminars, conferences, and exhibitions, providing scholars with opportunities to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and engage with the latest advancements in the field.
The Research Centre has the following provisions:
- Laboratories equipped with advanced instruments.
- Wi-Fi-enabled Bioinformatics lab featuring a sufficient number of computers.
- Library with an extensive collection of books, journals, and e-books available for reference.
- Department and laboratories equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity.
The Research Centre aims to:
- To investigate new ideas and drive innovation in the field of biology.
- To solve the problems of scientific queries
