Dr Beena Pillai has assumed office as the new Director of the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), marking a significant leadership transition at one of India’s premier biotechnology research institutions.
Her appointment, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Union Cabinet, is for a term of five years. Dr Pillai succeeds Prof Chandrabhas Narayana, who completed his tenure as Director in September last year.
Prior to this role, Dr Pillai served as Chief Scientist at the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), a leading national research institute in genomics and molecular medicine. An accomplished researcher, her work primarily focuses on RNA biology, particularly in areas such as neuronal development and function. Her laboratory has made notable contributions to understanding the role of RNA in early development, neurogenesis, adult behaviour, and disease susceptibility, along with identifying microRNA markers linked to human diseases.
Hailing from Kalady in Kerala, Dr Pillai began her academic journey with a B.Sc degree from Ramnarain Ruia College. She later pursued an integrated MS-PhD at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), one of India’s most prestigious institutions, before joining CSIR-IGIB as a young scientist.
Over the years, she has received several prestigious recognitions, including the National Bioscience Award, the INSA Young Scientist Award, and the CSIR Young Scientist Award, underscoring her contributions to the field of biological sciences.
The Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC)-RGCB operates under the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. The institute is known for its work in disease biology, translational research, technology development, and advanced training in life sciences.
Dr Pillai’s appointment comes at a time when the institute is gearing up for expansion and innovation. She is expected to lead key upcoming initiatives, including the establishment of a cGMP-compliant facility, a bio-manufacturing hub, and an oncology referral hospital, which are anticipated to strengthen the institute’s translational and clinical research capabilities.
Members of the RGCB scientific community have extended a warm welcome to Dr Pillai, expressing optimism about the institute’s future direction under her leadership.
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