Can you believe that one of the top scientists who has been consistently rated among the 2 per cent top scientists in pharmacy in the world according to the Stanford University since 2022, works and lives in our city. She is Dr Indu Pal Kaur, Professor of Pharmaceutics, presently Chairperson, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh.Dr Indu Pal Kaur, was recently awarded the prestigious National Intellectual Property Award 2021 & 2022 for being the Top Indian Individual for Patents Filing, Grant & Commercialization”. Out of a total of more than 200 applications under the category (male and female), she had highest points and was awarded under the female category.
She was also selected to receive “WIPO Medal for Inventors” conferred by World Intellectual Property Organisation. The award was given by Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, in New Delhi. She works in the field of nanotechnology, lets understand more about nano technology and her role.
What is the relevance of nanotechnology to a common man?
Nanotechnology increases the efficacy of pharma drugs which helps to treat serious diseases like cancer and also regular medical issues like anti-fungal ailments.
Nanotechnology is an innovative process which changes the bio-profile of molecules by reducing particle size. It reduces the cost of medicines and makes them cost-effective.
Fruits of her Labour
In 15 years of her academic research work, Dr Indu Pal Kaur filed for 22 patents with the Indian Patent Authority, out of which 12 patents have been granted and 10 are pending.
What is a patent?
Patent is an exclusive right to an invention, process, product, that provides a new way of doing something or offers a technical solution to a problem. One needs to get the official legal right to make or sell an invention. If you don’t patent your invention, other people may make all the profit out of it.
What is her contribution to society ?
Four important technologies developed by her which she has transferred to the Industry
- Anti –acne products: topical ointments which are more permeable and less toxic. It has already been marketed in East Asia by the name AvitX, will be available in Indian market by 2023
- Anti-fungal creams to fight fungal infection of the skin which will avoid relapse.
- A probiotic formulation for vaginal infections.
- Development of curcumin(haldi )as a wonder molecule in the form of nano-curcumin, which is good for general health, heart health, prevents Alzheimer’s and cancer
A tete-a tete with citywoofer.com
What is the future in nano technology for students?
Most students of nanotechnology do not get a sense of professional security, so they avoid getting into research work
How and where to study nanotechnology?
After a bachelor of pharmacy from a private or govt institute, a student can take admission in nanoscience.
What are the impediments in getting maximum benefit out of research and innovation?
The pharma industry does not trust academic research. The academia needs more investment from the government for R&D (research and development).
Any message for students?
- No replacement for hard work
- Read, read and read
- Come out of comfort zone
