Brief Introduction of Department

Pavankumar Todkar

Designation: Scientific Officer & Head

Department: Virology

Tenure: 01/12/2024 – Present

The Department of Virology is one of the oldest departments at the Haffkine Institute, engaged for the past 95 years in understanding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and host immune response to various viral diseases. It is a National Influenza Centre recognized by the WHO. Currently, it is a network laboratory under the NCDC-IDSP Influenza-like Illness Surveillance.

Neurovirology, Vector-borne Virology, and Respiratory Virology are the current areas of focus within the department. Research is conducted to understand the virus-host relationship and its implications for public health. Studies related to the antiviral efficacy of novel chemical entities (NCEs), both synthetic and natural, are also carried out. These evaluations have both academic and commercial outcomes.

The department organizes hands-on training in techniques in virology. Testing includes the diagnosis of viral infections such as COVID-19 and Influenza using molecular virology techniques.

Additionally, the Department of Virology conducts testing on suspected samples for the detection of rabies using RT-PCR under the NCDC-NOHPPCZ.

The department provides training for MUHS University students through a summer internship program. It also offers a six-month research internship program for students, as well as a National Apprentice Trainee program and a Biotechnology Internship Training Program.

The Department of Virology recently launched a two-week hands-on training program to enhance diagnostic skills and cell culture techniques for Life Sciences and Microbiology students. One DM Clinical Virology student has already completed the program. Going forward, DM Virology Super speciality Medical students will annually participate in this training, gaining practical experience in key virology techniques.

The department is equipped with various instruments, including BSL 1 & 2 labs, molecular diagnostic testing equipment such as RT-PCR machines, an automated RNA/DNA extraction machine, and cell culture facilities.

A team of three technical staff members and three support staff members facilitates the routine tasks of the department.