Department of Pharmacy

Welcome to the Department of Pharmacy, BITS Pilani

Campus

Pilani Campus

Department Contact Details

Contact Name

Dr. Rajeev Talyan

Designation

Head of Department, Department of Pharmacy

Phone

+91-1596-25-4745 | +91-1596-25-5226

Fax

rajeev.taliyan@pilani.bits-pilani.ac.in

Address

Birla Institute of Technology and Science,
Pilani Campus, Rajasthan – 333031, India

Department E-mail

Department Summary

The Pharmacy department of BITS Pilani is one of the few early schools of Pharmacy in India. Established in 1950, under the able leadership of (Late) Prof. M. L. Schroff, Father of Pharmacy Education in India, blossomed into one of the most sought-after Schools of Pharmacy in India due to its broad-based education system and university-industry linkages, which is the hallmark of BITS, Pilani. In the year of 2011, the Department of Pharmacy completed 60 years of its existence as a premier institution in the field of Pharmacy Education and Research in India and abroad. The Department is continuously undertaking research projects funded by industries and governmental funding agencies like CSIR, UGC, AICTE, DST, and MHRD. Ph.D. degrees have been awarded to about 60 candidates till now. Alumni are well placed in India as well as abroad in various pharmaceutical companies, government organisations like the drug control, research laboratories, etc., and in several well-known academic institutions

The School of Pharmacy of BITS Pilani is the oldest and most prestigious school of pharmacy in India, dating back to 1950. It was established by the late Prof. M. L. Schroff, who is respectfully known as the Father of Pharmacy Education of India, and has a long history of tradition of academic excellence and innovation. Decades down the line, it has developed immensely in size and capacity, becoming a top-grade institution that makes pharmacy education and research its future. The rich history has developed a strong culture of quality and dedication towards developing pharmaceutical sciences.

The department is famous for its solid and thorough education program, which incorporates strict theoretical courses with hands-on, practical training. Its curriculum is designed to keep pace with the rapidly evolving pharmaceutical landscape, ensuring that students acquire up-to-date knowledge and skills. Close collaboration with the pharmaceutical industry enhances this educational experience, providing students with real-world insights and opportunities for internships and placements. These industry connections also allow the department to customize its programs to address existing and emerging requirements, producing graduates who are industry-ready and able to make significant contributions.

Research is another important pillar of the department's mission, with ongoing projects sponsored by leading government agencies and industries. The support of organizations like CSIR, UGC, AICTE, DST, and MHRD provides the foundation for a broad spectrum of research in pharmaceutical sciences, drug development, formulation, and allied interdisciplinary areas. The continued research activity and funding enrich the academic environment as well as help improve healthcare and medicine. The department actively promotes research among faculty and students to pursue innovative research tackling emergent problems in the pharmaceutical industry and other fields.

The department proudly boasts of its successful alumni who have developed successful careers in pharmaceutical corporations, government institutions, research institutes, and educational institutions in India and abroad. Their success and contributions are a testament to the robust foundation and well-rounded training they had at BITS Pilani. In 2011, the department observed its 60th anniversary, six decades of excellence and commitment to developing pharmacy leaders of the future. The milestone is a testament to its long-standing legacy and continued commitment to developing pharmaceutical education and research.

Message from Head of Department (HOD)

Welcome to BITS Pilani's Department of Pharmacy! We take immense pride in our heritage and the solid foundation that has been established over the years. The department is founded on a tradition of excellence, combining a strong belief in delivering quality education with a fervor for innovation in pharmaceutical sciences. This legacy informs all that we do, so that every student who joins us is part of a dynamic community of learners, innovators, and professionals committed to learning, innovation, and professional development.

Our mission is focused on equipping able professionals and researchers who are well-positioned to make significant contributions to the pharmaceutical industry. We focus on an all-around education that reconciles academic knowledge with applied skills, allowing students to succeed in different fields of drug development, clinical research, and pharmaceutical technology. Through critical thinking, scientific investigation, and ethical values, we hope to develop future leaders who can respond to the changing challenges of the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors both nationally and internationally.

One of the most significant strengths of our department is our deep relationships with the pharmaceutical industry and with research projects. These relationships expose our students to actual applications, internships, and the possibility of being a part of state-of-the-art projects. Our faculty is actively involved in research projects sponsored by government agencies and industry, so students get the benefit of having the most recent innovations and advancements infused into the curriculum. This dynamic setting stimulates students to remain at the cutting edge of pharmaceutical development and contribute to significant breakthroughs in medicine and healthcare.

We extend a warm welcome to you to be part of this thrilling journey of discovery and learning. Be you a potential student, researcher, or partner, the Department of Pharmacy provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where you can develop your academic and professional career. Collectively, we forge new horizons in pharmaceutical sciences with passion, commitment, and a shared vision of enhancing human well-being. We eagerly anticipate the inclusion of your presence in our fraternity and your success as part of our ongoing legacy.

Department Responsibilities

The School of Pharmacy at BITS Pilani is strongly dedicated to offering extensive education through its undergraduate and master's pharmacy programs. The courses are designed with great care to prepare students with a solid foundation in pharmaceutical sciences through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical ability. Our instructors use modern pedagogy and revised curricula to help students understand fundamental concepts while remaining current with advancements in the field. This balanced process equips graduates to perform well academically and professionally and develop a lifelong interest in learning and scientific exploration.

Outside of classroom instruction, the department actively helps direct student projects and doctoral studies. Faculty members guide students through multiple stages of their academic careers, challenging them to seek out new concepts and participate in intense scientific inquiry. Whether it is a final-year project, master's thesis, or doctoral dissertation, students are provided with individual support and expert guidance. Not only does this mentorship improve research competency, but it also develops critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and academic integrity, the key qualifications for success in pharmaceutical research and business.

Research is one of the pillars of the department's activity, with research projects continuously being sponsored by major industries and government organizations like CSIR, DST, UGC, and AICTE. The research projects span various fields, ranging from drug discovery, pharmacology, formulation technology, and pharmaceutical analysis. Students and faculty interact through innovative projects that aim at developing the pharmaceutical sciences and meeting actual healthcare problems. This rich research culture enhances the academic atmosphere and fills the gap between academia and industry, leading to innovation and discovery.

Apart from academics and research, the department regularly conducts seminars, workshops, and industry interactions that are extremely beneficial for students and faculty members. The events invite experts from academia, research establishments, and the pharmaceutical industry to exchange knowledge, discuss trends, and explore opportunities for collaborations. These interactions expose students to the latest industry trends and upcoming technologies, making them professionally ready. In addition, the department fosters placements and career development through training sessions, campus placement drives, and career guidance to ensure that the graduates are professionally equipped to go ahead with successful and rewarding careers in the pharmaceutical industry.

Academic Programs Offered

B.Pharm.(Pharmacy)

Ph.D – Pharmacy

M.E. M.Pharm

M.Pharm. (Pharmaceutical Chemistry)

M.Pharm. (Pharmaceutics)

M.Pharm. (Pharmacology)

M.Pharm. (Pharmacy)

Research & Innovation

Preferred Research Areas

The Department of Pharmacy at BITS Pilani offers comprehensive expertise in Pharmaceutical Sciences, which forms the foundation of our academic and research activities. This broad field encompasses the study of drug action, delivery systems, and the chemical and physical properties of pharmaceuticals. Our curriculum and research initiatives are designed to deepen understanding of how drugs interact with the body and how they can be optimized for maximum therapeutic benefit. This strong base equips students with the knowledge needed to innovate and improve drug therapies, ensuring better health outcomes.

A major focus area within the department is Drug Development and Formulation. This involves the process of designing and creating effective and safe pharmaceutical products, from initial concept to final dosage form. Students and researchers engage in studying the chemistry, stability, and delivery methods of drugs, to enhance their efficacy and patient compliance. Cutting-edge techniques in formulation science allow us to develop novel drug delivery systems such as nanoparticles, sustained-release tablets, and targeted therapies, which have the potential to revolutionize treatment paradigms.

The field of Pharmacology and Toxicology is another critical area of study and research within the department. It focuses on understanding the biological effects of drugs, their mechanisms of action, and potential adverse effects. This knowledge is essential for evaluating the safety and efficacy of new and existing pharmaceuticals. Research in this domain helps identify toxicological risks and supports the development of safer medications. Our faculty and students contribute significantly to this area by exploring drug interactions, side effects, and the impact of pharmaceuticals on various organ systems.

Lastly, the department places strong emphasis on Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Quality Control and Analysis, two rapidly evolving fields that are vital to modern pharmacy. Pharmaceutical biotechnology leverages biological systems and organisms to develop innovative therapeutics, such as vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and gene therapies. Meanwhile, quality control and analysis ensure that pharmaceutical products meet stringent safety and efficacy standards through rigorous testing and validation techniques. Together, these areas underpin the development of high-quality medicines and maintain public trust in pharmaceutical products. Our active research and teaching in these domains prepare students to meet the demands of an advancing pharmaceutical industry

Ongoing Research Projects

The Department of Pharmacy at BITS Pilani is deeply engaged in a wide range of research projects that significantly contribute to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences. These projects are often supported by funding from prestigious government bodies as well as leading pharmaceutical industries, reflecting the department’s reputation for high-quality and impactful research. The collaboration between academia and industry ensures that the research conducted is both scientifically rigorous and aligned with real-world needs, helping to address pressing challenges in drug development and healthcare.

A primary focus of these research initiatives is new drug development, where faculty and students explore innovative approaches to discovering and designing novel therapeutic agents. This involves identifying potential drug candidates, studying their biological activity, and optimizing their chemical structures to enhance efficacy and safety. By integrating modern techniques such as computational modeling, high-throughput screening, and molecular biology, the department aims to accelerate the process of bringing new drugs from the laboratory bench to clinical application.

Another significant area of research is the development of advanced drug delivery systems, which aim to improve the way medicines are administered and absorbed by the body. Research in this domain includes designing targeted delivery methods, controlled-release formulations, and nano-carrier technologies that increase drug stability, reduce side effects, and improve patient compliance. These cutting-edge delivery strategies are critical in overcoming the limitations of traditional drug formulations and enhancing therapeutic outcomes for a wide range of diseases.

In addition to these core areas, faculty and students also investigate various related fields that complement drug development and delivery. This includes studying pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, toxicology, and pharmaceutical biotechnology, all of which contribute to a comprehensive understanding of how drugs work and how they can be improved. Through their research endeavors, the department continually contributes valuable knowledge and technological innovations that help shape the future of pharmacy and healthcare.

Research Scholars

The Department of Pharmacy at BITS Pilani is proud to host a vibrant community of Ph.D. scholars who are engaged in advanced research across a diverse range of pharmacy-related fields. These doctoral candidates play a crucial role in driving the department’s research agenda forward, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to complex scientific challenges. Their work often explores cutting-edge topics such as drug discovery, formulation science, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical biotechnology, contributing to the department’s reputation as a center of excellence in pharmaceutical research.

Ph.D. scholars benefit from close mentorship by experienced faculty members who provide expert guidance throughout their research journey. This mentorship ensures that the scholars develop strong analytical and technical skills while fostering independent thinking and scientific rigor. The department encourages an environment of intellectual curiosity and collaboration, where scholars regularly interact with peers and faculty through seminars, workshops, and discussion forums. Such interactions help them refine their research questions, learn new methodologies, and stay updated with the latest advances in their fields.

In addition to their individual projects, Ph.D. scholars actively contribute to the department’s broader academic output by publishing their findings in reputed national and international journals. These publications not only highlight the quality and relevance of their research but also enhance the department’s standing within the global scientific community. Many scholars also participate in conferences, presenting their work to experts worldwide and engaging in knowledge exchange. This active involvement in dissemination and dialogue fosters a dynamic research culture that benefits both the scholars and the department.

Beyond research, the Ph.D. scholars play a vital role in enriching the academic environment by assisting in teaching and guiding undergraduate and postgraduate students. Their contributions help bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and classroom learning, providing students with insights into current scientific challenges and methodologies. By balancing their roles as researchers and educators, these scholars help cultivate a thriving academic community dedicated to excellence and innovation in pharmacy.

Patents & Innovations

The Pharmacy Department at BITS Pilani is a research-oriented hub where new ideas and experiments are given constant encouragement. Novel concepts and experiments by the faculty members and students are worked upon with great dedication, pushing the limits of pharmaceutical sciences. The tradition of innovation creates an atmosphere of openness to creativity and scientific exploration, giving rise to developments of great promise to enhance drug therapies and healthcare delivery.

Most of the research studies conducted in the department have resulted in the development of patentable inventions. The patents generally include new drug products, drug delivery systems, or procedures that make drug products safer and more effective. Securing patents not only safeguards intellectual property but also confirms the novelty and useful utility of the research. Such success demonstrates the department's role in offering concrete solutions to problems of the pharmaceutical market and the healthcare industry.

Aside from patents, the department's research work has also led to the creation of new drug technologies that will make significant contributions to medical therapy. Such breakthroughs could be in sophisticated drug delivery vehicles, biotechnology products, or analytical methods that simplify drug quality control. By developing research results into practical technologies, the department enables the transition from laboratory findings to market applications, speeding up the release of enhanced healthcare solutions.

Ultimately, the cutting-edge research being done within the department benefits the greater good of healthcare by facilitating the creation of safer, more effective, and more available medicines. This dedication to excellence in research not only serves patients, however, but also enhances the pharmaceutical community and academic world of research. Through ongoing innovation and technology creation, the department significantly adds to public health improvement and the enhancement of the international world of pharmaceuticals.

Publications & Journals

Faculty and research scholars in the Department of Pharmacy, BITS Pilani, are keenly involved in sharing their research outcomes through publications in peer-reviewed national and international scientific journals. This publishing endeavor exhibits the department's commitment to sharing new knowledge and innovations with the field of pharmaceutical sciences. Sharing their work with the scientific community at large, the faculty and scholars promote advancement and a culture of academic excellence and innovation.

Publication in esteemed journals also guarantees that research carried out in the department is of good quality and rigor. Manuscripts are thoroughly peer-reviewed before acceptance, offering good feedback and ensuring the refinement of the work. The process not only enhances individual research studies but also maintains the department's reputation for providing sound and effective scientific contributions. With these publications, the faculty and scholars of the department become thought leaders and experts in their field.

The journals where research scholars and faculty members publish are varied, ranging across various disciplines of pharmaceutical sciences like drug development, pharmacology, pharmaceutical biotechnology, and quality control. This multidisciplinary publishing enhances the science conversation and reflects the department's diversity in research excellence. Further, these journals provide a platform for presenting novel methodologies, novel results, and practical uses that can shape pharmaceutical education, industry operations, and healthcare worldwide.

Apart from promoting science, frequent publication is also important in the academic development of faculty members and scholars. It offers avenues for credit, cooperation, and grants that add to further and ongoing research activities. The department promotes and facilitates its members to take active participation in scholarly publishing as a way of continually increasing their knowledge and adding to the development of pharmacy both within India and globally.

Department of Pharmacy

Department Summary

Message from Head of Department (HOD)

Department Responsibilities

Academic Programs Offered

Research & Innovation

Preferred Research Areas

Ongoing Research Projects

Research Scholars

Patents & Innovations

Publications & Journals

Infrastructure and Facilities

News And Events

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