Mangaluru: The Father Muller College of Physiotherapy marked a significant step forward in its academic and research pursuits with the inauguration of its dedicated Research Cell on 31 July. The event was held at the Decennial Memorial Hall in the Knowledge Centre Building on the Father Muller Medical College campus, followed by a hands-on workshop on research methodology.
Launch of the Research Cell
The inauguration began with a ceremonial distribution of research batches to the faculty and student members. Prof. Cherishma Dsilva, Principal of the College of Physiotherapy, welcomed the gathering and reflected on the enduring academic relationship between Father Muller Institutions and Nitte Deemed to be University. She highlighted the mutual growth and learning fostered through this connection.
The chief guest, Dr. Praveen Kumar Shetty, Director of Research and Development at Nitte Deemed to be University, praised the initiative, stressing the value of research driven by curiosity rather than reward. He encouraged students to develop genuine interest in scientific inquiry.
The event was presided over by Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, who underscored the importance of personal growth and collaboration in professional development.
Workshop: ‘From Concept to Data’
To commemorate the launch, the college hosted a research workshop titled “From Concept to Data: A Hands-on Guide to Cross-sectional Research.” The workshop provided students and faculty with practical insights into designing and conducting cross-sectional studies.
The sessions were led by a diverse panel of experienced faculty from Father Muller Medical College and the College of Physiotherapy:
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Dr. Sudhir Prabhu H, Professor & HOD, Community Medicine: Covered various study designs and levels of evidence.
Dr. Manjunath J, Professor & HOD, Nephrology: Introduced the fundamentals of cross-sectional studies.
Dr. Nishanth Krishna K., Associate Professor, Community Medicine: Explained how to formulate a strong research question.
Ms. Praseena, Assistant Professor & Biostatistician: Presented methods for selecting study populations and sampling techniques.
Dr. Reshma G. Kini, Professor, Pathology: Focused on ethical considerations and data collection techniques.
Dr. Garima Gupta and Ms. Aishwarya Gatty, faculty members of the Physiotherapy College: Delivered sessions on data analysis, interpretation, and scientific writing.
Active participation and positive feedback
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from undergraduate and postgraduate students alike. With interactive sessions, practical modules, and structured breaks, attendees remained engaged and took full advantage of the resources provided. The initiative was widely appreciated for bridging the gap between theoretical understanding and real-world research application.
This event stands as a testimony to Father Muller’s ongoing efforts to strengthen research culture among health sciences students and empower the next generation of evidence-based practitioners.
