In a move aimed at enhancing academic and research collaborations, the Dr Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD), affiliated with the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) at the University of Karachi (UoK), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the College of Molecular Medicine at Ziauddin University. This partnership, celebrated at a formal ceremony at the HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, marks a significant step forward for both institutions.
The MoU was signed by Prof Dr Farzana Shaheen, Director of ICCBS at Karachi University, and Prof Talat Mirza, Principal of the College of Molecular Medicine and Executive Director of Research at Ziauddin University. In addition to the signatories, prominent academics and researchers from both universities were present, including Prof Dr Asmat Salim, Prof Dr Shabana Simjee, and Prof Dr Syed Ghulam Musharraf from ICCBS, as well as Dr Shumaila Usman and Dr Aisha Ishaque from Ziauddin University.
The agreement outlines mutual objectives that include academic exchanges of faculty and students, sharing of research and academic information, and joint efforts in conducting seminars, workshops, and training sessions. Both institutions also committed to exploring further collaboration on joint research projects and collaborative programs.
During the event, Prof Dr Farzana Shaheen emphasized the importance of the partnership, praising ICCBS as a center of excellence in chemical, biological, and biomedical sciences that adheres to international standards. She highlighted the role of PCMD in advancing research and education, which attracts scholars from around the world.
Prof Talat Mirza lauded the contributions of the PCMD, recognizing Ziauddin University’s dedication to academic and research excellence. She emphasized the institution’s multidisciplinary approach and its affiliation with various international organizations, noting that the collaboration would bring fresh opportunities for knowledge sharing and innovation.
This MoU paves the way for a series of initiatives, such as faculty exchanges, research partnerships, and the organization of academic events, which aim to benefit both faculty and students alike. Future discussions between the institutions are expected to broaden the scope of their collaborative efforts, potentially impacting the landscape of molecular medicine and drug research in Pakistan.