Frontiers in Biomedical and Sustainable Science

Sep 05, 2025

Foreword by Prof. Amitava Das

It gives me great pleasure to present this issue of InScight, a forum for discussing the frontier issues in contemporary science. True to its spirit, InScight reflects the diversity of inquiry that defines our institute and the larger scientific community. Contemporary science is increasingly interdisciplinary, requiring contributions from every branch—physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, earth sciences, and beyond—to address the grand challenges of our times. From health and disease to sustainability and climate, progress depends on dialogue and collaboration across disciplinary boundaries.

A schematic representation of the process of cell death. Read the article by Prof. Chandrima Saha to find out more.

Among the most dynamic areas of present-day research is biomedical science, where new ideas emerge at the interface of chemistry and biology. A compelling example is the study of disease biology and the therapeutic potential of short peptides. Recent publications highlight how these versatile biomolecules are not just fragments of larger proteins but highly functional agents capable of modulating protein–protein interactions, serving as enzyme inhibitors, receptor modulators, or drug carriers. Chemical innovations such as stapling and conjugation have enhanced their stability and efficacy, opening avenues against cancer, neurodegeneration, antimicrobial resistance, and other complex diseases. This exemplifies how fundamental molecular science converges with medicine to generate solutions with transformative impact.

In keeping with this interdisciplinary ethos, IISER Kolkata recently hosted the Bioanalytical Workshop 2025, which brought together researchers, students, and industry experts to share cutting-edge methods in biomedical analysis. Such platforms foster exchange across domains, ensuring that our students and young scientists remain well-equipped to push the frontiers of knowledge.

To promote and nurture interdisciplinary learning, IISER Kolkata has introduced a two-year MS program in Sustainable Science. The faculties of various departments of IISER Kolkata have come together in developing this course with the aim of addressing unmet challenges in Sustainable Ecosystems and emphasising our commitment to society.

Epithelial cells work together like a neighborhood watch, sensing when one of their neighbors turns abnormal and pushing it out before it can cause harm. This captures the essence of homeostasis that constitutes one aspect of Prof. Das’s research. Find out more in his interview.

This issue of InScight thus celebrates the synergy of disciplines—from molecular medicine to sustainability—while showcasing the creativity and commitment of our community. I hope these pages will inspire readers to appreciate the richness of interdisciplinary science and to envision new collaborations that advance both knowledge and societal well-being.

Prof. Amitava Das,
Department of Chemical Sciences,
IISER Kolkata