The PSDP-funded project “Establishment of National Center of Industrial Biotechnology (NCIB) for Pilot Manufacturing of Bio-products Using Synthetic Biology and Metabolic Engineering Technologies” at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) convened the 2nd meeting of its Scientific and Industrial Advisory Board (SIAB) to review progress, outline future directions, and strengthen academia-industry collaboration.

On the occasion, NCIB signed strategic MoUs with M/S Shimadzu & Wali Group, M/S Biodyne, M/S Orbit Seeds Pvt. Ltd., and M/S Infinity Grow Pvt. Ltd. These partnerships aim to enhance research and development, facilitate field trials, and accelerate the commercialization of innovative bioproducts.

Vice Chancellor PMAS-AAUR, Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman, highlighted that the establishment of NCIB reflects the joint commitment of the University's Project Team, Project Director, Director P&D, and Director ORIC toward advancing applied research and fostering strong industry linkages to strengthen Pakistan's bio-economy and sustainable agricultural growth. Technical Director NCIB, Prof. Dr. Abida Raza, presented the Center's roadmap and sustainability plan, highlighting strategies for industry partnerships, specialized training programs under NCIB-Scientific Skill Development Program Initiative (SSDPI), and provision of advanced analytical and technical services to academia, industry, and farmers. The SIAB members commended NCIB's vision and reaffirmed their support for its initiatives to strengthen technology transfer and promote industrial biotechnology in Pakistan.