Trailblazer in Science: Dr. Beena Pillai Takes Helm at RGCB

Dr. Beena Pillai has been appointed as the new director of the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, succeeding Professor Chandrabhas Narayana. An accomplished scientist specializing in RNA biology, Dr. Pillai is expected to lead new initiatives, including a manufacturing hub and oncology referral hospital, during her five-year term.

Dr. Beena Pillai has officially assumed the role of director at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) in Kerala, following an appointment sanctioned by the Union Cabinet's Appointments Committee. This transition marks the end of Professor Chandrabhas Narayana's term, which concluded in September last year.

Dr. Pillai, previously chief scientist at the Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) in New Delhi, is renowned for her extensive work in RNA biology and neuronal development. Her research primarily delves into RNA's role in early development, neurogenesis, adult behavior, and disease susceptibility, contributing significantly to the field.

The Rajiv Gandhi Centre, falling under the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council of the Department of Biotechnology, is poised for transformative projects spearheaded by Dr. Pillai. These include establishing a cGMP facility, a bio-manufacturing hub, and an oncology referral hospital, reinforcing RGCB's mandate in disease biology and technology development.

(With inputs from agencies.)