NSU Biochemistry and Microbiology Students Win Top Awards at International Biotechnology Conference 2025
North South University (NSU) students from the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology (BMD) have made Bangladesh proud by securing the top three awards at the International Biotechnology Conference 2025, held at Brac University, Dhaka, on June 20–21.
This major academic achievement underscores NSU’s growing leadership in biotechnology research in Bangladesh and highlights the innovative potential of its students in the global scientific community.
NSU Students Lead in International Biotechnology Research
Dr. S. M. Bakhtiar Ul Islam assistant professor and research supervisor at NSU’s Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, praised the students’ performance:
“This achievement is a source of pride not only for our students but for the entire nation. It reflects NSU’s research excellence and the creativity of Bangladesh’s young scientific minds.”
First Place: Discovery of Thermostable Enzyme-Producing Bacillus Strains
Md. Safayet Sahib and his team won 1st place in the Industrial Biotechnology category for their research titled:
“From Bangladeshi Soil to Genomic Insight: Discovery of Thermostable Bacillus Strains with High Amylase and Protease Activity.”
Supervised by Dr. Bakhtiar, the study focused on isolating heat-tolerant Bacillus bacteria from Bangladeshi soil, capable of producing commercially valuable enzymes such as amylase and protease. These enzymes are crucial in multiple sectors including:
- Textile industry
- Detergent manufacturing
- Pharmaceuticals
- Food processing
Dr. Bakhtiar emphasized the global demand for thermostable enzymes and the opportunity for Bangladesh to fill this gap by establishing a biotechnology industry focused on enzyme production.
First Runner-Up: Enhancing Enzyme Efficiency with Metal Ions
Tasnim Rahman and her team earned the first runner-up position for their project:
“Effect of Metal Ions on the Enzymatic Efficiency of Amylase and Protease Producer KTH 205.”
This research explored how various metal ions influence enzyme activity, offering practical implications for optimizing enzyme applications in industrial settings.
Special Recognition: Investigating Intracellular Bacteria in Poultry
Sheikh Adiba Tasneem and her team received special honors for their innovative research:
“The Silent Invaders: Unmasking Intracellular Bacteria in Chicken PBMCs.”
This study focuses on bacterial infections within chicken immune cells, which has significant implications for animal health, food safety and public health surveillance in poultry farming.
Advancing Biotechnology Education and Innovation in Bangladesh
The success of NSU students at an international platform demonstrates the growing research capacity of Bangladeshi universities and the country’s potential to contribute to the global biotechnology industry.
“If this trend continues,” said Dr. Bakhtiar, “Bangladesh will soon be recognized as a leader in biotechnology research and innovation.”
NSU is now inviting industry partners, investors and collaborative researchers to bring these student-led research innovations to the commercial market.