New Delhi: Somaiya Vidyavihar University, a dynamic, multidisciplinary institution built on the rich 80-year legacy of the Somaiya Trust recently hosted the International Conference on Clinical Translation of Biomaterial-based Therapeutics and Devices (ICBTD 2025).
The conference was endorsed by the Society for Biomaterials and Artificial Organs India (SBAOI), supported by Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and Anusandhan National Research Foundation.
Organized by Somaiya Center for Integrated Science education and research and Department of mechanical engineering of Somaiya Vidyavihar university, the conference brought together leading researchers, industry experts, and clinicians to explore advancements in biomaterial applications for healthcare.
The conference began with a lamp-lighting ceremony followed by a welcome address by Dr. Biji Balakrishnan, Convenor of the Conference. Prof. V. N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice-Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University (SVU), emphasized the role of translational research in biomaterials, while Prof. S. Sivaram discussed the importance of strong infrastructure to turn ideas into medical products. Shri Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, shared valuable insights on industry collaborations, and a tribute was paid to M.S. Valliathan for his significant contributions to biomaterials. Dr. Ramesh Lekurwale, co-convenor concluded the inaugural session with a vote of thanks.
Dr. Rohit Shrivastav (Vighyan Shri 2024) presented on “Affordable Healthcare Technologies in India,” followed by Dr. Harikrishnan Varma, who discussed the “Challenges in the Translation of Biomaterials to Clinical Applications.” Dr. Francis B. Fernandez explored “Hard Tissue Reconstructions,” and Dr. Kuthe presented “Tissue Engineering Research in India: A Pasteur’s Quadrant Perspective.” The session concluded with an insightful talk by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Taral Nagda on “The Fourth Dimension of Pediatric Deformity Correction in Children.” The day wrapped up with poster evaluations, networking, and industry interactions.
Day 2 commenced with Senior INSA Scientist, Dr. Jayakrishnan’s talk on Drug Delivery Across the Blood-Brain Barrier, followed by Prof. Lakshmi S. Nair (UCONN, USA) talks on approaches for osteoarthritis pain management. Dr. Balram S.’s session on “From Research to Startups: Navigating the Road Less Traveled” was followed by Dr. Anuya with a discussion on “From Lab to Clinic: Improving Patient Care Through Silk-Based Bone Regeneration.” Prof. Nitin Joshi spoke on “Micro- and Nano-Scale Innovations for Next-Generation Therapeutic Delivery,” and Prof. Ketul Popat concluded the discussions with “Surface Modification Strategies to Improve Hemocompatibility of Titanium-Based Implants.” The highlight of the second day was the presentation of ground-breaking studies by early-career researchers and students on biomaterials for drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and 3D bio-printing applications.
Speaking at the conference, Dr. V. N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice Chancellor, of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, emphasized the transformative role of biomaterials in modern medicine, stating: “We stand at the cusp of a new era in medicine, where biomaterials are no longer passive components but active participants in the healing process.” He further highlighted the significance of collaboration in accelerating medical advancements “By sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas, and forging new partnerships, we can accelerate the translation of research into real-world clinical applications, improving human health and well-being.”
“This conference exemplifies our vision of fostering global collaboration in biomedical sciences. By bridging research and real-world applications, we aim to ensure that biomaterial breakthroughs benefit society at large.” said Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University.