Nature's Tiny Architects

M.Sc. Microbiology course is designed to understand the power of microorganisms by gaining in-depth theoretical and practical knowledge. The curriculum and new approach of learning will empower students to understand microbial diversity and their potential to deliver the solutions for Industry, Agriculture and Environment. The students will gain fundamental knowledge of basic principles, concepts, approaches, analytical skills and applications of microbiology and microorganisms in Industry, Agriculture and the Environment. Eminent teachers, scientists and Industry persons will provide polyphasic approach for their study to develop quality research aptitude.
To develop among students an understanding of sustainability for all living beings for a better life.
The Department of Microbiology, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Ahmedabad, organized the 2nd National Conference entitled “Microbial Maestros for Sustainable Development” on 10th February 2026.
Prof. Satya P. Singh, Department of Bioscience, Saurashtra University, was the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker of the event.
Among the eminent scientists working in the field of Microbiology and invited for expert talks were Dr. Nasreen Munshi, Institute of Science, Nirma University; Dr. Shweta Agrawal, Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalay, Indore; and Dr. Harsha Soni, HVHP Institute of Post Graduates & Research, KSV, Kadi. They delivered lectures on recent findings in microbiome research for the benefit of human beings.
A total of 106 delegates participated from various institutes and universities in and around Ahmedabad. Four research scholars presented their research work in the oral presentation session, while 40 undergraduate and 31 postgraduate students presented their work through poster presentations.
The best oral and poster presentations were awarded cash prizes during the valedictory function, which was graced by the presence of Fr. Pitchai, (Dr.) Fr. Johnson, Dr. Mallika Sanyal and other dignitaries. The conference provided valuable insights into emerging fields of microbiology and sustainable technologies.
The Department of Microbiology, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Ahmedabad, in association with the MBSI Student’s Unit, celebrated International Microorganisms Day on 17th September 2026 through an engaging and creative event titled “Micro Marvels 2.0”.
The programme aimed to celebrate the fascinating world of microorganisms and highlight their immense significance in science, healthcare, industry, environment and entrepreneurship.
The theme of the event, “Celebrating the Invisible, Inspiring the Future,” encouraged students to explore microbiology beyond the conventional classroom and laboratory.
A special guest lecture was delivered by Dr. Hardik Shah, Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, Mehsana Urban Institute of Science, Ganpat University, Kherva, Mehsana.
He spoke on “Microbes to Markets: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Opportunities in Microbiology.” The lecture provided students with insights into the entrepreneurial potential of microbiology and the opportunities available for translating scientific knowledge into innovative products and ventures.
The celebration featured a series of creative competitions designed to combine science with artistic expression. Students participated enthusiastically in Scientific Rangoli, Agar Art and Microcanvas, showcasing microorganisms and microbiological concepts through colourful and imaginative artwork.
As part of Micro Marvels 2.0, the MBSI Students Unit organized a Buttermilk Awareness Campaign on the theme “Drink Buttermilk & Stay Healthy – Refresh, Rehydrate, Revitalize.”
The campaign highlighted the microbiological significance of buttermilk as a natural probiotic drink. The poster unveiled on the occasion showcased buttermilk as Nature’s Healthy Drink, enriched with the power of probiotics.
Faculty members and students of the Microbiology Department participated enthusiastically in the celebration, and buttermilk was distributed to promote healthy, natural hydration and appreciation of beneficial microbes in daily diets.
The department expressed gratitude to the college management for its support and to the M.Sc. Microbiology students for their enthusiastic participation, teamwork, creativity and dedication in organizing the event.
The Journal Club of the Department of Microbiology, St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Ahmedabad, aims to cultivate a vibrant research culture by encouraging scientific curiosity, critical evaluation, collaborative learning and the application of contemporary microbiological knowledge to address real-world challenges.
The club works in association with Xavier Research Foundation. It is an academic platform designed to promote research aptitude, scientific discussion, critical thinking and the exchange of knowledge among faculty members and students.
Students will plan and start their research project in Sem-III, and complete in Sem-IV. We will encourage students for independent scientific thinking to increase multi-dimension research potential to tackle local and global challenges with ethics and value-driven learning.
Overview of areas covered during Sem I – IV:
Microbial diversity, Enzyme technology, Microbial genetics, Physiology, Metabolism, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Agriculture, Environment, Food and Industrial Microbiology, Research Methodology, Bio-informatics and Project.