The latest division of the Father Muller Research Centre (FMRC) was inaugurated and blessed on 15 February 2025 at Father Muller Medical College (FMMC), marking a new milestone in the institution’s research journey.
Ceremony led by FMCI leadership
The inauguration took place on the 3rd Floor of A Block at FMMC. Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), blessed and officially opened the new research division alongside Director-Designate Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo.
The ceremony began with prayers, followed by words of encouragement from Rev. Fr Coelho, who highlighted the role of resilience and financial backing in the growth of the research centre. He expressed optimism about FMRC’s future expansion with continued support.
Recognition for pioneering efforts
A key guest at the event was Dr. B Sanjeev Rai, Former Dean of FMMC and Chief of Research at FMRC. A respected figure at FMCI, Dr. Rai was instrumental in establishing FMRC in 2006. He reflected on the centre’s evolution from a modest office into a globally recognised hub for research.
State-of-the-art laboratory unveiled
The new division boasts cutting-edge laboratory equipment to advance research capabilities. Dr. Shivashankar A.R., Head of the Biochemistry Division at FMRC and Principal of Father Muller Allied Health College, Thumbay, detailed the lab’s upgraded features.
The facility includes a biochemistry division equipped with ELISA and spectrometry systems, a microbiology lab with a specialised anaerobic section and MALDI-TOF technology, and a cell culture lab. Future developments in proteomics and trace element analysis are set to position FMRC as a leading regional reference laboratory.
Leadership and management support
Special recognition was given to Rev. Fr Ajith B. Menezes, Administrator of FMMC, FMCOP, and FMCOAHS, for his leadership and problem-solving approach. His efforts contributed to the timely completion of the new division.
FMRC’s growth is further supported by increased budget allocation for the upcoming academic year. This financial commitment, spearheaded by Rev. Fr Coelho, is expected to facilitate continued innovation and research development.
Event attended by key figures
The event opened with a welcome address by Dr. Ramesh Bhat, Head of FMRC and Professor in Dermatology. Dr. Beena Antony, Professor and Division Head of Microbiology, delivered the vote of thanks. The event was compered by Ms. Rhea Pinto, Junior Research Fellow at FMRC.
Members of the Management and Advisory Committees, faculty, and staff were present to witness the occasion and convey their best wishes for FMRC’s continued success.
