Kolkata | 21 July 2026: Techno India University, West Bengal, in association with its Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) and CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI), Durgapur, hosted an Expert Lecture & Career Guidance Session that brought together leading scientists and students for an enriching exchange on advanced research, technological innovation, and future career pathways in engineering and science.
Prior to the inaugural session, the CSIR-CMERI delegation held an interaction with the University Leadership Team, exploring opportunities for joint research, internships, faculty engagement, technology transfer, innovation, and future academic partnerships, laying the foundation for stronger industry-academia collaboration.
The programme commenced with a warm welcome and the introduction of the distinguished guests. The event was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Saikat Maitra, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Techno India University, West Bengal; Prof. (Dr.) Gautam Majumdar, Pro Vice-Chancellor, TlU; Prof. (Dr.) Rina Paladhi, Director of Academics & Director, IQAC; Prof. (Dr.) Sujoy Biswas, Registrar, TIU; and Prof. Ishan Ghosh, Associate Dean, Student Affairs. The university also welcomed Dr. Santu Kumar Giri, Scientist ‘F’, CSIR-CMERI, Durgapur, and Dr. Soumen Sen, Scientist ‘G’, CSIR-CMERI, Durgapur, who were felicitated by the university dignitaries in recognition of their outstanding contributions to scientific research and technological innovation.
Welcoming the collaboration, Prof. (Dr.) Gautam Majumdar highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between academia and premier research institutions. “We firmly believe that exposure to a national research laboratory like CSIR-CMERI will inspire our students to pursue excellence in research and innovation, while encouraging our faculty members to build long-term collaborative projects that contribute to scientific and technological progress,” he said.
Highlighting the university’s vision, Prof. (Dr.) Saikat Maitra emphasised Techno India University, West Bengal’s commitment to fostering a research-driven academic ecosystem by strengthening collaborations with leading national research institutions and creating greater opportunities for innovation and interdisciplinary learning.
Echoing this vision, Prof. (Dr.) Rina Paladhi emphasised the significance of meaningful partnerships in preparing students for the future. “In an era where technology and industry are evolving at an unprecedented pace, universities must go beyond imparting knowledge. We must create opportunities, nurture innovation, and prepare our students to become the leaders and problem-solvers of tomorrow. Our collaboration with CSIR-CMERI reflects this commitment,” she remarked.
The programme also featured a presentation on CSIR-CMERI’s pioneering research initiatives, followed by discussions on prospective collaboration between the institute and the university. The first technical session was delivered by Dr. Santu Kumar Giri on “Future Mobility is Electric: Innovations in Electric Mobility from Lab to Road at CSIR-CMERI.” Highlighting the institute’s interdisciplinary approach to electric mobility, he explained how CSIR-CMERI has evolved from a mechanical engineering research institute into a multidisciplinary innovation ecosystem. Stressing the importance of sustainable transportation, he remarked, “The transition to electric mobility is not merely a technological shift – it is a critical response to pressing environmental challenges, particularly urban air pollution caused by conventional internal combustion engine vehicles.”
The second technical session featured Dr. Soumen Sen, who delivered a lecture titled “From Being Compliant to Soft: Actuation for Cobots Meant for Physical Interaction.” Introducing students to the field of collaborative robotics, he explained how future robotic systems are being designed to work safely alongside humans. Drawing inspiration from nature, he remarked, “The human body is powered by muscles, not motors. Modern robotics seeks to replicate this remarkable combination of strength, flexibility, precision, and adaptability,” adding that “Softness in robotics is not a weakness… it is an engineering advantage that enables safer, more natural, and more intelligent interaction between humans and machines.”
Over 200+ students from the Department of Computer Science & Engineering (CSE), Computer Science & Engineering (Artificial Intelligence), Computer Science & Business Systems (CSBS), Electronics & Communication Engineering (ECE), Electrical Engineering (EE), Civil Engineering (CE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), and the School of Future – CSE (Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning & Data Science) actively participated in the conclave, engaging with the distinguished scientists through insightful discussions and interactive sessions.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, followed by a group photograph commemorating the beginning of a promising long-term collaboration between Techno India University, West Bengal, and CSIR-CMERI, Durgapur. By facilitating meaningful interaction with eminent scientists from CSIR-CMERI, Techno India University once again reaffirmed its commitment to fostering academic excellence, strengthening research collaborations, and empowering students to become future-ready innovators capable of driving technological progress.