The Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology (COXBIT) at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore and Department of Plant Biotechnology, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (CPMB&B), jointly organized an expert talk on December 6th, 2025 on “From Lab to Field: Pathways for Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Graduates into Agri-Input Careers” presented by Mr. Karthik K, Zonal Demand Generation Manager, Corteva Agriscience India Pvt. Ltd., a professional with strong expertise in Research and Development. The under graduates of B.Tech (Biotechnology) & (Bioinformatics) (200 Nos.) and research scholars of Department of Plant Biotechnology participated in this talk.
Mr.K.Karthik started his session by introducing the key segments of the agri-input industry and highlighted emerging agricultural trends. He explained Corteva’s global role as a U.S. based leading company expertizing in seeds, crop protection and sustainable solutions addressing major farmer challenges such as food security and climate impact. He emphasized the significance of Research and Development as a long and rigorous process involving safety evaluation and multi-location trials. He discussed the increasing use of AI in agriculture, with applications in genetic engineering (CRISPR) for pest resistance management and crop improvement.
In the interaction session, he outlined career opportunities for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics graduates, emphasizing essential technical and soft skills, as well as future trends like AI-driven farming, eco-friendly bio-inputs and genomics-based precision agriculture. He added that Corteva offers internship for postgraduates in Research and Development sector. Also, advised students to develop strong communication, positive attitude and update their essential skill sets. He concluded by clarifying that pesticides are not harmful when used at the right dose and method.
Earlier, Dr.V.Rajan Babu, Assistant Professor, Department of Plant Biotechnology welcomed the gathering. Dr. N. Senthil, Director, Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology delivered inaugural address. Finally, Dr.K. Hemaprabha, Associate Professor, Department of Plant Biotechnology proposed vote of thanks. The Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology coordinated this event.