Microbiome Conclave & Ideathon at KSUM Explores Research Advancements

KOCHI:
Leading scientists, industrialists, entrepreneurs and researchers came together to explore latest advancements in research on microbiome, as the Microbiome Conclave & Ideathon-2025 concluded by serving a platform to explore its applications across sustainability, healthcare and industry.

Hosted by the Centre of Excellence in Microbiome (CoEM) in association with the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), the event was inaugurated by CoEm Director Dr Sabu Thomas. It was followed by a keynote by Mangalore-based NITTE University Advisor (Research and Patents) Dr Iddya Karunasagar, who is a former officer at Food and Agriculture Organisation.

The event at the KSUM campus in suburban Kalamassery featured experts from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration between academia, industry and entrepreneurs, while paving the way for future breakthroughs in microbiome research. Organisers reiterated their commitment to supporting emerging startups and strengthening the microbiome innovation ecosystem in Kerala.

Leucine Rich Bio CEO Kumar Sankaran delved into certain research gaps and business opportunities in the human microbiome sector, while Food Safety Officer (Government of Kerala) Dr Rani Chacko elaborated on the regulatory status of prebiotic and probiotic foods in the country under FSSAI regulations. KSUM Assistant Manager (Translational Research) Dr Deepu Krishnan detailed the financial and incubation support provided by the nodal agency, while CoEM Scientist Dr Aparna Shankar presented an overview of the organisation’s research and entrepreneurial initiatives.

A panel discussion and interactive session, moderated by Dr Deepu Krishnan, triggered though-provoking matters from Chennai-based Saksin Lifesciences President and CEO Dr C.N. Ramchand, School of Biosciences Associate Professor Dr Radhakrishnan E.K. (who is also Director of Business Innovation and Incubation Centre at MG University), Mr Kumar Sankaran, CEO, Bengaluru-based Labriut Nutrients CEO Dr Preethi Sudha and CoEM Senior Scientist in charge (Entrepreneurship & Product Development) Dr Mahesh S. Krishna.

A highlight of the event was the Ideathon, drawing overwhelming response from students, researchers, faculty members and startups — all pitching innovative microbiome-based solutions across five key themes. From over 60 applications, 15 teams were shortlisted to present their ideas before an expert jury. Four exceptional innovations—by MG University Research Scholar S. Gayathri, KUFOS’s Preena P.G. of Marine Biosciences, Fathima Faiha N. & team of St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam; and Prof Sinilal B., of Fatima Mata National College, Kollam—were declared winners.

The event also featured a startup expo and exclusive startup presentations, providing emerging entrepreneurs a stage to showcase their innovations in microbiome technology.

KSUM promotes innovation and entrepreneurship, supporting more than 6,300 startups, besides 64 incubators and 525 innovation centres, with focus on the digital sector, health tech and services.