CCMB-Hyderabad: Empowering Science, Enabling Futures

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), located in Hyderabad, India, is one of India’s most prestigious life sciences research institutions. It functions under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), a premier government research and development organization. Established in 1977, CCMB has grown into a center of global repute for its cutting-edge research in cellular, molecular, genetic, and computational biology.

CCMB stands as a beacon for innovation, high-impact research, and education in biosciences, while also playing a crucial role in supporting young scientists and students through training, internships, and outreach.

Core Research Areas

CCMB’s research is broadly interdisciplinary, combining experimental and computational biology. Key areas of focus include:

1. Cell Biology

Studies how cells grow, divide, and communicate.
Focuses on diseases such as cancer, regenerative biology, and cellular signaling.

2. Molecular Biology & Genetics

Researches the regulation of gene expression and mutations.
Studies genetic diseases, development, and evolution of organisms.

3. Genomics & Bioinformatics

Houses advanced genome sequencing and analysis facilities.
Works on human, microbial, and wildlife genomes.
Develops computational tools to predict gene functions.

4. Structural Biology & Biophysics

Uses X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy to study protein structure.
Aims to understand how biological molecules work at the atomic level.

5. Infectious Diseases and Antibiotic Resistance

Studies host-pathogen interactions (e.g., TB, malaria).
Works on developing novel antimicrobial agents.

6. Stem Cells and Developmental Biology

Researches embryonic development and tissue regeneration using stem cells.

7. Conservation Biology (LaCONES)

A dedicated lab for conserving endangered species through genetic technologies.
Collaborates with zoos and wildlife departments across India.

Infrastructure and Facilities

CCMB boasts world-class research infrastructure, including:

Next-generation sequencing platforms
Confocal and super-resolution microscopy
Bio-safety level-3 (BSL-3) lab for infectious disease research
High-performance computing (HPC) clusters
CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing labs
National Facility for Gene Function in Health and Disease

Student Support and Training Programs

CCMB is as much an educational hub as it is a research center. It offers various structured and informal programs for students ranging from high school to Ph.D. level.

1. Ph.D. Program

Offered through AcSIR (Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research).
Students with CSIR/UGC/DBT/ICMR fellowships are eligible.
Highly competitive; includes coursework, research, seminars, and thesis defense.

2. Summer Training Program (STP)

A 2-month program open to postgraduate students in life sciences.
Students work under mentorship in real labs on current projects.
Highly selective and prestigious.

3. Young Innovators Program (YIP)

For students in grades 8-10.
Two-week residential program including lab tours, lectures, and interactive workshops.
Designed to foster curiosity in science early on.

4. “Shadow a Scientist” Initiative

Allows students to spend a day with a CCMB researcher.
Exposure to daily research activities and lab environments.

5. Bioinformatics Training

Regular workshops on data analysis, genomics, and computational biology.
Equips students with skills in Python, R, and bioinformatics tools.

6. Dissertation and Project Work

M.Sc., M.Tech., and B.Tech. students can apply for short-term dissertation work.
Collaborations with Indian and international universities.

Outreach and Public Engagement

CCMB is committed to taking science beyond the lab and into the community through its Science Outreach Cell. Major initiatives include:

Science Workshops & Exhibitions

For schools, colleges, and the general public.
Interactive displays, hands-on activities, and lab tours.

Superheroes Against Superbugs

Public health awareness program about antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Conducts sessions in schools using storytelling and comics.

SciTales Platform

A storytelling portal where scientists write simplified accounts of their work.
Promotes public understanding of scientific discoveries.

Jigyasa Program

A joint effort with Kendriya Vidyalayas to promote scientific curiosity in schools.
Includes science quizzes, poster making, model exhibitions, and guest lectures.

Collaborations & Impact

Collaborates with IITs, IISERs, international labs like EMBL and Harvard Medical School.
Works with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for translational projects.
Actively transfers technology to biotech companies.
Played a major role in COVID-19 diagnostics and genomic surveillance in India.

LaCONES – Saving Biodiversity through Science

The Laboratory for Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) is part of CCMB and works on:

DNA fingerprinting of wild animals.
Assisted reproductive techniques (IVF, artificial insemination).
Cryopreservation of gametes and embryos.

They have helped conserve species such as the Asiatic lion, red panda, and blackbuck.

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) is more than just a research lab. It is a living ecosystem of ideas, education, and innovation. By offering students real-world scientific exposure and world-class mentorship, CCMB ensures that the next generation of Indian scientists is not only skilled but also inspired.

From decoding genomes to conserving species and educating the youth, CCMB stands as a symbol of scientific excellence and national pride.