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AIC-CCMB to host workshop on ICE Cloud for life sciences researchers on Sep 24

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  Published in Science and Technology on Sunday, September 14th 2025 at 14:40 GMT by Telangana Today
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AIC‑CCMB to Host Workshop on Ice Cloud for Life‑Sciences Researchers on Sep 24

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad has announced a specialized workshop for life‑sciences researchers, scheduled for 24 September. The event, organized in partnership with the Advanced Institute of Chemical Technology (AIC), will focus on “ice cloud” – a term increasingly used in contemporary cryobiology to describe controlled ice nucleation and its applications in preserving biological samples. With the ever‑growing demand for precise cryogenic techniques in drug development, genetics, and ecological studies, the workshop aims to bring together scientists, technologists, and academicians to explore the cutting‑edge science behind ice‑mediated preservation.

Why “Ice Cloud”?

Ice formation is a double‑edged sword. In natural environments, ice can damage cells and tissues, but when engineered under controlled conditions, it can be harnessed to stabilize fragile biomolecules for long‑term storage. The concept of an “ice cloud” refers to a regulated network of ice crystals that can be engineered to preserve biological samples without compromising their integrity. Researchers have long debated the optimal temperature, ice crystal size, and exposure duration needed to maintain cell viability. The workshop will address these questions, providing a platform for researchers to test hypotheses in a collaborative setting.

Organisers and Their Mandate

CCMB has a long history of pioneering molecular‑level research, from unraveling the secrets of malaria to developing novel gene‑editing tools. In partnership with AIC, the workshop seeks to bridge the gap between fundamental research and industrial application. AIC’s focus on chemical engineering and process technology complements CCMB’s biological expertise, creating a multidisciplinary forum that can accelerate the translation of lab‑bench discoveries into real‑world solutions.

Both institutions have previously hosted high‑impact conferences, such as the “Cryogenic Advances in Biopharma” series and the “Molecular Dynamics in Extreme Conditions” symposium. This workshop builds on that legacy, offering a focused dive into the nuances of ice‑mediated preservation.

Key Objectives and Expected Outcomes

1. Knowledge Transfer – By bringing together experts from academia, pharma, and governmental research agencies, the workshop intends to disseminate the latest findings in cryobiology and cryopreservation.

2. Skill Development – Hands‑on sessions on the use of cryostats, vitrification protocols, and cryo‑EM imaging will equip participants with practical skills often lacking in theoretical coursework.

3. Collaboration Building – Networking tables and poster sessions will encourage researchers to form new collaborations that could lead to joint grant applications, technology transfer agreements, or academic exchanges.

4. Standardization Efforts – Discussions will aim to set guidelines and best practices for cryopreservation that can be adopted across Indian laboratories and even on a global scale.

Program Highlights

Each session will be followed by a question‑and‑answer segment, allowing participants to clarify doubts and discuss real‑world challenges they face. The hands‑on modules will involve the use of vitrification machines and advanced microscopy tools, giving participants firsthand exposure to state‑of‑the‑art cryogenic technology.

Participants and Eligibility

The workshop is open to researchers, post‑docs, PhD candidates, and industry professionals working in fields such as molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, and environmental biology. Registration details and deadlines are available on the CCMB website. Early‑bird registration is open until 10 September, after which the fee will increase.

Broader Context and Impact

India’s life‑sciences sector is currently experiencing a surge in cryopreservation needs. From national biobanks to pharma R&D units, the demand for reliable, scalable, and cost‑effective preservation techniques is higher than ever. The AIC‑CCMB workshop directly addresses this bottleneck by focusing on the “ice cloud” concept—a strategy that could reduce sample loss, improve reproducibility, and lower operational costs.

Furthermore, the workshop aligns with the government’s “Mission on Cold Chain” and “National Health Mission” objectives, which emphasize robust sample storage to support diagnostics, vaccine development, and genetic research. By fostering an ecosystem where researchers can learn, collaborate, and innovate around ice‑mediated preservation, the event could pave the way for future standard operating procedures adopted across the country.

Final Thoughts

The 24 September workshop promises to be a landmark event for the Indian life‑sciences community. By marrying the expertise of CCMB’s molecular biology researchers with AIC’s engineering acumen, the program will shine a spotlight on an often‑overlooked but crucial aspect of modern research—ice cloud technology. As the global scientific community increasingly turns to cryogenic solutions to address complex biological questions, India’s researchers will have an unprecedented opportunity to contribute to and benefit from this emerging field.

For those interested, the official CCMB page for the workshop (accessible via the main CCMB website) contains detailed speaker bios, logistical information, and a virtual tour of the CCMB cryogenic labs. The event is expected to attract a diverse crowd, reinforcing Hyderabad’s position as a burgeoning hub for life‑sciences research and innovation.