Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 4, 2024 – In a significant move to bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and commercial viability, the Research Innovation Network Kerala (RINK), an initiative by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), has joined forces with the Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV). This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in fostering synergy between the startup ecosystem and research and development institutions in Kerala.

RINK’s Exploration of IAV:

As part of this innovative initiative, RINK embarked on an exposure visit to the IAV campus situated at the Life Sciences Park in Thonnakkal, Trivandrum. The IAV, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Kerala, has been a hub for cutting-edge research, particularly in the field of virology.

Unlocking Opportunities for Startups:

The visit provided an invaluable platform for startups associated with RINK to explore potential opportunities for incubation and co-development of products and services in collaboration with IAV. The meeting facilitated interactive sessions between startup representatives and accomplished scientists at IAV, enabling knowledge exchange and insights into the realm of virology research.

RINK’s Commitment to Collaboration:

RINK’s commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing between the academic community and startups was evident during the visit. The initiative is poised to empower entrepreneurs within the state’s ecosystem by providing access to the rich research potential of Kerala.

IAV’s Enthusiastic Support:

Expressing enthusiasm about the collaboration, Dr. E Sreekumar, Director of IAV, stated, “We are thrilled to facilitate the possibilities of participatory R&D and collaboration between startups and IAV.” The institute’s Innovation and Translation Facilitation Centre (ITFC) serves as a premier incubation facility, dedicated to supporting startups and industries, particularly in life sciences.

IAV’s Vision and Global Standards:

Established in 2019, IAV has the vision to be a global centre of excellence in virology research. The institute collaborates with international institutions for training, education, and research in both basic and translational virology. With modern laboratories and a focus on bio-safety measures, IAV is equipped to handle high-risk viruses.

Future Prospects:

The collaboration between RINK and IAV aims to create a conducive environment for startups to thrive by leveraging the expertise and facilities provided by the virology institute. It also aligns with Kerala’s broader vision of building an innovation-led economy by translating research innovations into commercially viable products and services.

The visit to IAV coincided with the inauguration of operations at the institute’s incubation centre by Cleomed Medical Systems Pvt Ltd. This further underscores the potential impact of collaborative initiatives between research institutions and startups.

Conclusion:

The strategic partnership between RINK and IAV holds promise for unlocking new frontiers in research, entrepreneurship, and virology. By bringing together the strengths of both entities, this collaboration is set to make significant contributions to the startup ecosystem and scientific advancements in Kerala.

FAQ’s