The Central University of Punjab, Bathinda is a research centric University. The faculty of the University is involved in carrying out basic as well as applied research. The research strength of the University is evident by the research publications in national and international journals of repute and the research grants earned by various faculty members from various funding agencies like DBT, DST, UGC, ICMR, ICSSR, BRNS, MoFPI etc. The total number of projects over a decade since the establishment of the University in 2009 is 253 amounting to approximately Rs 101 crores.
Nine (09) departments of the University have earned DST FIST grant worth Rs. 8.43 crores. University has been sanctioned three centres under PMMMNMTT with total grant amounting to Rs. 5.7 crores. University has been sanctioned one E-YUVA Centre by BIRAC with total grant of Rs. 2.66 crores. Further, University has established iTBI (Inclusive Technology Business Incubator) with total sanction of Rs. 3.99 crores with funding of DST. In addition, University has bagged a major Research Project amounting to Rs. 8.82 crores by DST under its PURSE scheme.
The total number of research papers published by the faculty members till date is 3298 as per SCOPOUS and 2714 as per Web of Science. The University is performing exceedingly well among the newly established Central Universities in terms of research output.
The University has animal cell culture and plant tissue culture facilities. The labs are equipped with RT-PCR, Gradient PCR, UV-Visible Spectrophotometers, automated karyotyping system, Electrophoresis units, Gel documentation systems, high precision water baths, Ultra-low temperature deep freezers, high speed cooling centrifuges, Vacuum Concentrator, Nanodrop, CO2 incubators, and Millipore water purification systems for teaching and research.
The hallmark of the research conducted at the Central University of Punjab is the intellectual environment that brings people together to solve societal problems. Biologists, pharmaceutical scientists, chemists, mathematicians, computer scientists, geologists, environmental scientists, physicists, social scientists and the faculty from humanities are carrying out collaborative research for societal benefits.
Significant Areas of Research:
● The Department of Applied Agriculture focuses on advancing innovative technologies for the conservation, processing, and value addition of agricultural raw materials to meet the food processing industry's needs. It emphasizes research in agri input-output and agricultural marketing to improve market efficiency and profitability for farmers. Key interests include sustainable agriculture and food policies, agripreneurship to foster innovation, and food sciences, particularly the characterization of cereals and pulses. The department is also involved in fruit and vegetable processing, digital agribusiness convergence for optimized production and supply chains, and developing strategies for food retailing and agribusiness management. Committed to sustainability, the department ensures resilient and eco-friendly agricultural practices that contribute to long-term food security and environmental conservation.
● The Department of Biochemistry focuses on diverse research areas to understand disease mechanisms and develop therapeutic strategies. Key areas include plant-microbe interactions and the exploration of plant natural products for health and agriculture. The department is deeply engaged in carrying out research in thrombus biology and theranostics, investigating novel ways to diagnose and treat thrombotic disorders. Research into anticancer therapy is a major thrust area, with efforts focused on identifying natural, semisynthetic, and synthetic compounds for cancer management using biochemical, molecular, and computer-aided drug discovery methods. Additionally, the department is exploring the role of non-coding RNAs in cancer biology. The department is also engaged in exploring the immunobiology of human diseases, aiming to understand immune responses and develop immunotherapeutic strategies. Studies on fungal pathogenesis and drug resistance are also pivotal, aiming to combat fungal infections and enhance the effectiveness of current treatments. This diverse range of research areas highlights the department's commitment to advancing knowledge in biochemistry and translating it into meaningful therapeutic interventions.
● The Department of Botany is involved in both fundamental and applied research in plant sciences, focusing on areas such as genome editing, molecular stress physiology, and plant biodiversity. Research spans the exploration of Antarctic floristic diversity and the identification of anticancer compounds from algae and fungi. Key areas include genetics, applied genomics, and plant metabolic engineering to improve crop resilience. The department also studies abiotic stress tolerance in cyanobacteria and explores plant taxonomy, molecular systematics, and biodiversity conservation, particularly in response to climate change. Additionally, research in plant tissue culture and algal biotechnology contributes to the sustainable use of plant and algal resources for biotechnological applications. These efforts aim to address global environmental and agricultural challenges.
● The Department of Chemistry conducts advanced research in sustainable organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and material chemistry for energy and environmental applications. Utilizing techniques like UV-visible spectroscopy, DSC, ITC, and single-molecule spectroscopy, the protein structures and kinetics under various conditions are being studied. In sustainable organic chemistry, the focus is on green chemistry, using microwave-assisted synthesis and C-H bond functionalization for bioactive molecules. Research also includes the synthesis of natural products for potential anticancer and anti-Alzheimer's agents. In material chemistry, the department explores nanocrystals, metal hydrides, and solar energy applications, along with supramolecular self-assemblies for drug delivery. Research in environmental chemistry targets the removal of contaminants like arsenic and pharmaceuticals using innovative materials. This interdisciplinary research drives progress in therapeutics, energy, and environmental protection.
● The Department of Computer Science and Technology research thrust areas include Image Processing and Computer Vision, where techniques for enhancing and interpreting images are developed for applications in healthcare and robotics. The department emphasizes Big Data Analysis and Data Sciences to address challenges related to managing and extracting insights from large datasets. Software Engineering is a critical area, focusing on best practices in software development and maintenance. The department also explores Quantum Computing, investigating the implications of quantum mechanics for computing and developing related algorithms. Research in Network Security and Cyber Security is essential for protecting data and systems from emerging threats. Additionally, the department Social Media Analysis understand human behavior and community dynamics through social media data. Overall, the department is committed to fostering innovation and preparing students for the challenges of the digital age.
● The Department of Economic Studies emphasizes critical areas of economic research including Financial Economics, focusing on financial systems; Development Economics, which explores strategies for economic growth; and International Economics, examining global trade dynamics. The department also studies Environmental Degradation and its economic implications, alongside Industrial Economics and Labour Economics, providing a comprehensive view of economic principles.
● The Department of Education is dedicated to enhancing teacher education and pedagogical innovation through research in innovative pedagogies, mathematics and science education, and effective assessment methods. It emphasizes environmental education, inclusive practices for diverse learners, and curriculum design that meets contemporary needs. Additionally, the department explores higher education policy, ICT-mediated pedagogies, and STEAM education to prepare effective educators for the challenges of the 21st century.
● The Department of English fosters research across a diverse range of literary and linguistic fields. Key thrust areas include Indian Literature, Applied Linguistics, and Critical Theory, alongside explorations of American Literature and Cultural Theory. The department also engages in Translation Studies, Discourse Analysis, and Corpus Linguistics to understand language use. Other research interests encompass Postcolonial Literature, African-American Literature, Indian Cinema, and Folklore, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding language and literature's cultural implications.
● The Department of Environmental Science and Technology is involved in addressing critical environmental issues through innovative research and solutions. Key areas include pollution monitoring of air, water, and soil, with efforts to remediate organic pollutants (e.g., pesticides, PAHs) and heavy metals (e.g., uranium, arsenic) using advanced techniques. Research on wastewater treatment develops efficient purification methods for reuse and safety, while solid waste management and waste-to-energy conversion aim to minimize environmental impact and generate sustainable energy. The department also monitors wetlands to preserve biodiversity and climate regulation. Cutting-edge work includes biosensor development for contaminant detection and the use of geospatial technologies like GIS and remote sensing for environmental analysis. Additionally, the department is committed to studying the impacts of climate change, contributing to global mitigation and adaptation strategies. These efforts collectively support sustainable environmental practices and resource protection.
● The Department of Financial Administration centers its research on various aspects of financial practices. Key thrust areas include Consumer Brand Relationships and Rural Development, focusing on financial strategies to enhance rural economies. Additional research includes Investment Analysis, Corporate Governance, Financial Literacy, and Social Securities, as well as studies on Corporate Social Responsibility and the interplay between Banking and Insurance.
● The Department of Geography focuses on Urban and Regional Planning, applying Geo-information Science and Earth Observation to manage geographical data for sustainable development. Key areas include Geo-intelligence, big data, landscape ecology, and Applied Geomorphology, studying the impact of human activity and natural processes on landscapes. Research in Glaciology and Geomorphic systems in high mountain areas explores ice-related processes, while Geochronology and Paleo-environmental science reconstruct past environments. The department also addresses Climatology, Climate Change, Geo-hazards, disaster mitigation, and land degradation for effective risk management. Additionally, research in Hydrology, watershed management, and Population and Health Geography focuses on sustainable water use and spatial health trends.
● The Department of Geology aims to enhance understanding of the Earth’s history, biological evolution, climate changes, and natural hazards. Key research areas include Palaeontology and Biostratigraphy, focusing on the fossil record and stratigraphic sequences to reveal evolutionary history. Paleoclimate and Palaeobiogeography studies investigate past climates and organism distribution across geological periods. The department also examines Earth surface processes through isotope geochemistry, particularly cosmogenic radionuclides for studying erosion and sediment transport. Research on Elemental mobility during chemical weathering contributes to global carbon cycle understanding. In Hydrogeology, the focus is on aquifer systems, groundwater flow, and quality, supported by Hydrochemistry and Remote Sensing technologies for hydro-geomorphic and water table mapping. Overall, the department integrates natural and human systems to promote sustainable resource management and resilience to environmental changes.
● The Department of Hindi emphasizes research in Bhakti Literature and the Bhakti Movement, exploring its socio-cultural impacts. Additional areas of study include Comparative Studies, Modern Literature, and the Sociological Approach to Literature. The department also focuses on Dalit and Tribal Literature, Functional Hindi and Translation, and the intersection of literature with Cinema and Mass Media. Plans for the future include developing career-oriented courses and diplomas to enhance student employability.
● The Department of History investigates significant historical narratives, focusing on Medieval and Ancient Indian History, and the History of Religions and Religious Communities. Research includes in-depth studies of Mughal History and the Kushan Dynasty, as well as the Social History of India and the History of Ideas, particularly regarding nationalism in India.
● The Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine is engaged in diverse research areas, focusing on the genomics and pharmacogenomics of diseases such as stroke, breast cancer, T2DH, epilepsy, migraine, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and diabetes-related complications. The role of non-coding RNAs and miRNAs is also being explored in diabetes, breast cancer. Focus is also on hemoglobinopathies and modifier genes in thalassemia. There is also significant progress in identifying biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease, nanotherapeutics, stem cell research, and regenerative medicine. In the field of cancer biology, the department is making strides in understanding cancer cell signaling, small RNAs in cancer, and the metabolic processes involved in breast cancer progression. Other research areas include genetic and epigenetic causes of reproductive disorders and early childhood developmental disorders. Moreover, the department is pioneering studies in clinicogenomics for rare diseases like vasculitis, immunogenomics for celiac disease and COPD, and nutrigenomics focused on vitamin D deficiency. The study of population genetics and genetic diversity, coupled with advancements in immunotherapeutics and translational genomics, further highlights the department’s comprehensive approach to human health. Ongoing research into stem cell biology, muscular dystrophy, and evolutionary genetics adds to the wide array of disciplines being explored. The research output of the department will have direct applications in diagnostics/pre-diagnostics and therapeutics for several pathogenic diseases. The department is involved in exploring the molecular signatures of the predicted rare genetic disorders. The department has established state-of-the-art infrastructure facilities, funded under the DST-FIST grant.
● The Department of Law is committed to explore critical areas of legal studies. Research focuses on Environmental Law, addressing legal frameworks for environmental protection; Human Rights Law, which investigates the protection of fundamental rights; Corporate Law, analyzing corporate governance structures; and Intellectual Property Laws, emphasizing the protection of creative works.
● The Department of Library and Information Sciences is dedicated to advancing knowledge in Library & Knowledge Management, emphasizing effective administration, financial management, and user studies. Research areas include Information Source, Services & Systems, focusing on diverse fields like medicine and social sciences, and Knowledge Management, which investigates systems and strategies for managing information. The department also studies quantitative and qualitative science metrics, including Altmetrics and Bibliometrics, alongside Data Science Techniques & Applications that enhance information visualization and analytics. Research in Advanced ICT Applications explores emerging technologies like Web 3.0 and library automation, ensuring that the department remains at the forefront of information science.
● The Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies emphasizes research in key areas such as Development Communication, exploring how media can facilitate social change and development. The department also addresses Combating Fake News and Media Literacy, aiming to enhance public understanding and critical engagement with media. Additional focus areas include Audio-video Communication, where students study the techniques and effects of visual media; Cinema Studies, which involves critical examination of film as a cultural phenomenon; and Multi-media Studies, exploring the integration of various media forms in contemporary communication.
● The Department of Mathematics and Statistics is actively engaged in advancing research in both pure and applied mathematics and statistics, offering robust training and exploration opportunities. Key research areas in mathematics include geometry and topology, focusing on Riemann-Finsler geometry, semi-Riemannian manifolds, and submanifold theory. The department also addresses modern challenges in cryptography and image security, particularly encryption techniques and cryptographic Boolean functions. In differential equations, research covers Lie symmetry analysis, non-linear partial differential equations, and dynamical systems, with applications in physics, fluid mechanics, and biology. Statistical research spans regression analysis, copula theory, ordered statistics, actuarial statistics, and stochastic modeling, applying these methods to environmental and biostatistical fields. The department also explores fuzzy set theory, soft set theory, and contributes to fields like mechanics, robotics, and relativity theory, ensuring significant contributions to both theoretical and applied mathematical sciences.
● The Department of Microbiology is involved in knowing the role of induced oxidative stress and innate defence responses in various human diseases. The ultimate goal is to delineate the complex interrelationships between the oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators, wherein the promise of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapies in controlling progressive disease conditions can be realized. The department studies molecular players like Integrin binding proteins, Kindlin, and Nischarin in colon cancer and intestinal health, alongside therapeutic targets of gastric cancer stem cells. Bacteriophages and phage-derived enzymes are being studied for potential applications in human and veterinary medicine. Other areas include cell-matrix interactions in gastrointestinal diseases, RNA transcription, biofilms, and antimicrobial resistance. The molecular mechanisms in host-pathogen interactions, intestinal inflammation, and oxidative stress were also being studied.
● The Department of Performing & Fine Arts is dedicated to the study and research of various artistic disciplines. Thrust areas include Acting and Theatre, focusing on training and performance techniques. The department also explores Television & Performance Studies, alongside the theoretical aspects of Indian Classical Music, Devotional Music, and Folk Music. In addition, it covers Applied Art and Designing, promoting a comprehensive understanding of both performance and visual arts.
● The Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products (DPSNP), is equipped with advanced research facilities and focuses on cutting-edge areas such as Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD), lead molecule synthesis, and natural product-based drug discovery. Key research areas include molecular modeling, anticancer research targeting tyrosine kinases like EGFR, HER-2, CDKs, PKM-2 and epigenetic enzymes like HDACs and HATs. Research also extends to the inhibition of key cellular proteins and signaling transducers involved in cancer progression, such as PI3K, topoisomerases, microtubule proteins, and DNA repair enzymes. Other therapeutic areas include the development of antihyperuricemic and antigout agents, focusing on xanthine oxidase inhibition, anti-inflammatory agents targeting COX and LOX pathways, and antiviral agents for HIV by inhibiting proteins like LEDGF/p75 and HIV integrase. The department is also working on antidiabetic research, targeting enzymes such as aldose reductase, PTP-1B, and DPP-4, alongside efforts to develop antimicrobial agents like anti-MRSA and NNRTIs for HIV. In the field of Natural Product Research, the department is involved in the preparation and standardization of plant extracts, as well as isolating active constituents from bioactivity-guided fractions. Several plants of interest, including Citrullus, Piper, Stevia, and Withania somnifera, are being studied for their medicinal properties. Additionally, the department focuses on eco-friendly organic transformations for synthesizing bioactive agents. This includes developing green chemistry protocols for reactions, such as those conducted under solvent-free conditions, utilizing heterogeneous catalysis, or employing microwave and ultrasound-assisted methods to enhance reaction rates. These methodologies are applied to synthesize drugs, drug intermediates, and new chemical entities targeting various therapeutic areas, along with enzymatic biotransformations.
● The Department of Pharmacology focuses on diverse research areas, including Neuropharmacology and Psychopharmacology, exploring drug effects on the nervous system and cognition. Research extends to Autacoids Pharmacology, Cardiovascular Pharmacology, and Clinical Pharmacology for safe drug use. The department involved in Pharmacovigilance and Indigenous Drug Research. Therapeutic research focus is on Diabetes, Ulcerative Colitis, Alzheimer’s disease, Depression, Anxiety, Cognitive Dysfunction, Cancer, Epilepsy, Stroke, and PTSD, contributing to new treatment modalities.
● The Department of Physical Education is committed to advancing sports science education and research, focusing on key areas such as exercise physiology, sports biomechanics, and sports psychology to enhance athletic performance and well-being. It emphasizes sports performance analysis, development, and medicine, providing care and rehabilitation strategies for injured athletes. The department fosters collaboration with national and international organizations, offering skill development programs, inclusive sports initiatives for individuals with disabilities, and community programs promoting fitness and well-being. Research on obesity management and the impact of sports in rehabilitation underscores its commitment to societal change, while the integration of technology in training methodologies positions the department at the forefront of sports science education.
● The Department of Physics is engaged in high-quality theoretical and experimental research across various cutting-edge fields. Key areas of focus include the development of 2D materials and energetic materials for renewable and energy storage devices, as well as plasma physics, which investigates plasma parameters, chaotic dynamics, and noise-induced coherency. Research on nanomaterials emphasizes applications in biomaterials and renewable energy devices. Theoretical studies explore the electronic, magnetic, transport, thermoelectric, optical, and dynamical properties of low-dimensional quantum systems such as nanotubes and quantum dots, employing techniques like density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The department collaborates with prestigious international institutions, including UCLA, Brunel University, and Michigan Technological University, as well as national universities like Panjab University and NIT Surat. Research spans areas such as Accelerator and Plasma Physics, Experimental Condensed Matter Physics, and Nano and Bio-medical Physics. Through these diverse efforts, the department significantly advances knowledge in fundamental and applied physics.
● The Department of Psychology emphasizes diverse research areas, including Distracted Driving and Error Analysis, focusing on cognitive and behavioral patterns. Other key areas include Gaze Behavior Analysis, Working Memory, and various branches of psychology such as Cognitive Psychology, Development Psychology, and Counselling Psychology. The department also engages in studies on Sports Psychology, Child and Adolescent Development, and Cyber Psychology, highlighting the multifaceted nature of psychological research.
● The Department of Punjabi focuses on significant literary and cultural studies within the Punjabi context. Research areas include Gurmat Sahit, Sufi Sahit, and Parvasi Sahit, alongside studies in Punjabi Language and Linguistics. The department also examines Ecocriticism, Semiotics, and Post-colonial Studies, enriching the discourse on Punjabi literature and culture.
● The Department of Sociology is dedicated to understanding complex social dynamics, with research interests in Human Rights, the Sociology of Muslim Communities, and Social Change. The faculty explores themes of Social Exclusion, Political Sociology, Sociology of Religion, and Sociology of Development, providing insights into societal structures and movements.
● The Department of South and Central Asian Studies focuses on a multifaceted exploration of geopolitical dynamics, emphasizing the complex interrelations within the South and Central Asian regions. Research in this department delves into the Geopolitics of South and Central Asia, analyzing the strategic significance of these areas in global politics. It also examines the Geopolitics of the Eurasian Region, considering the broader implications of regional interactions on international relations. Additionally, the department investigates Indian Foreign Policy and Diplomacy, exploring how India's strategic decisions shape its interactions with neighboring countries and global powers. Security Studies is another critical area of research, addressing the challenges and threats faced by nations in these regions. Furthermore, the department engages with Environmental Politics, assessing how ecological issues intersect with political processes and influence policy-making in South and Central Asia. Through these diverse thrust areas, the department aims to contribute valuable insights into the evolving geopolitical landscape of the region.
● The Department of Zoology focuses on understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying various human diseases, with the goal of identifying potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. A key area of research is Alzheimer’s disease, where the department is investigating neurodegenerative processes to be targetted by novel treatment approaches. In the field of Neuroendocrinology, research aims to explore the intricate hormonal regulation of the nervous system, while studies in Cancer Biology focus on understanding tumor development and progression. The department is also trying to figure out the molecular basis of DNA damage and repair mechanisms, which play a critical role in maintaining genomic stability and preventing diseases such as cancer. Research in Circadian Biology explores the biological clock and its influence on health, while studies in Reproductive Endocrinology focus on hormonal control of reproductive processes.
● The Malwa region of Punjab has come under focus because of an increased prevalence of cancer, diabetes, birth defects and other adult onset disorders. Therefore, the University is not only carrying out research to understand the ethnic specific predisposition to these disorders but also conducts activities designed to educate the general public and benefit society. The University has adopted a couple of nearby villages with an aim to provide basic medical advice, conduct laboratory investigations and educate the villagers so that an early intervention is suggested for a better outcome.
● The University is also involved in providing academic and professional guidance and consultancy services to Govt. and Non-Govt. organisations, academic institutions, personal or professional researchers and other organisations related to industry, trade and business.
Notification of Constitution of Sub comittees under R & D Cell
Scopus Publication, h-index & Citations As on 18.10.2024 :
h-index: 95
Citations: 66821
Papers: 3298
WoS Publication, h-index & Citations As on 18.10.2024 :
h-index 87
Citations 51750
Papers 2714
- List of Research Projects sanctioned by the various funding agencies till 23.10.2024
- Extramural Sanctioned Project (along with their status)
- University-sponsored projects' (RSM)
- Research Fellows
Implementation of Research Internship Scheme at Central University of Punjab, Bathinda
Notice-239: Summer Internship Programme
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