Academic Programs
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics DMMG
Official Email Address: drmubashiraziz@bzu.edu.pk
Departmental Student Advisor: Mr. Aqal Zaman (Male DSA), Dr. Humera Nazir (Female DSA)
Departmental Examination Incharge: Dr. Humera Nazir
Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics (DMMG) was initiated in the year 2014 as a division of erstwhile Intitute of Pure & Applied Biology. It has been upgraded to the status of an independent Department in the year 2022. The Department is located in the Biology Building and has dedicated microbial culture facility along with chemical/molecular biological facilities to identify different microorganisms. Basic molecular virology facility is also available. Future research projects of the Department may include but not limited to bioproduction, microbial contaminants of food, Vaccine development, antimicrobial resistance, applications of phages in microbial control and development of viral vectors for gene delivery. Graduates of the department will be accepted in food industry, pharmaceutical and bio fertilizer companies, medical institutions and Govt. regulatory agencies. Furthermore, graduates of DMMG are eligible to apply for various public service commision jobs.
The Department has earned a strong reputation for producing high-quality research that meets international standards. Efforts are continuously made to further enhance research activities through various grants and projects supported by government and autonomous bodies such as PSF, HEC, PARC, and others. The detail of the projects running in the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics is given below.
|
Sr. No. |
Name of Faculty Member |
Title of Project |
Funding Agency |
Status |
|
1. |
Dr. Mubashar Aziz |
Development and Evaluation of Oral pH-responsive microparticles encapsulating inactivated E. Coli to provide immunity in Broiler Poultry to Combat Antibiotic Drug Resistance |
University of Birminghum, UK Total cost (16 million) |
In-Progress (Co-Investigator) |
|
2. |
Dr. Muhammad Qamar Saeed |
Process optimization of Spirulina platensis Medium scale culture for Industrial Production |
Asia Poultry Fields, Pvt.Limited |
In-Progress |
|
3. |
Dr. Humera Nazir |
Biodegradation of Polystyrene by Fungal Strain |
BZU Total cost (300,000) |
In-Progress |
|
4. |
Dr. Muhammad Abaid Ullah |
1. Biofortification of wheat crop to eliminate zinc deficiency using zinc solubilising bacteria (ZSB) isolated from the native fields of Rahim Yar Khan (PI)
2. Isolation and identification of cellulolytic bacteria from termites’ gut (Cryptotermes sp.) (Co-PI)
|
NRPU-HEC Total cost (21,16800)
NRPU-HEC Total cost (35,00000) |
In-Progress |
The Department also collaborates with leading scientific institutions both within the country and internationally, sharing research and working together on collaborative projects. Our practical laboratories are well-equipped with modern scientific equipment, providing students and researchers with the tools they need to succeed. It's worth mentioning that our faculty members have published up to 140 research articles in national and international journals, many of which have significant impact. Additionally, faculty members have contributed to several books, book chapters, and hold patents. The following research groups are currently working in the Department:
- Bacteriophage and Phage Therapy Research Laboratory
- Recombinant Enzyme Production and Vaccine Development Laboratory
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Laboratory
- Development of Bio Inocula (Biofertilizers and Biopesticides ...)