Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences is a premier higher education institution dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. The university nurtures a vibrant academic environment supported by modern infrastructure, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a research-driven curriculum. With a strong focus on societal transformation through technology, Karunya upholds values of integrity, sustainability, and innovation.The institution is committed to addressing global challenges in health, environment, food, and energy through interdisciplinary research. Over the years, it has emerged as a hub for advanced studies in biotechnology, life sciences, engineering, and applied sciences, attracting scholars, researchers, and industry collaborators from across the world.

Established in 2005, the Department of Biotechnology is dedicated to delivering excellence in teaching, hands-on training, and advanced research. With modern laboratories and expert faculty, the department nurtures skilled biotechnologists capable of innovation and societal impact. Our mission is to develop competent professionals with strong ethical values, equipped to design sustainable bioprocesses and value-added bio-products. The department is actively engaged in addressing real-world challenges related to water, food, healthcare, and energy through cutting-edge biotechnological approaches.

The National Conference on "Prospects of Algae in Food, Health, Environment, and Energy – 2026" (PAFHEE’26) is a global platform dedicated to exploring the transformative potential of algae in advancing sustainable development and is sponsored by DBT, Govt of India. The conference brings together researchers, academicians, industry experts, policymakers, and students to discuss innovations, breakthroughs, and emerging technologies in algal science. It highlights the critical role of algae in developing high-value compounds, bioactive ingredients, functional foods, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and materials that support a circular bio-economy. It aims to integrate scientific research with industrial applications to address global challenges in nutrition, healthcare, renewable energy, and environmental resilience. The event features plenary sessions, invited talks, oral and poster presentations, and a pre-conference workshop on 12th March 2026, followed by the main conference on 13th & 14th March 2026. It offers an excellent opportunity for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and networking with experts in algal biotechnology. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary approaches, PAFHEE’26 aspires to inspire new ideas and promote eco-friendly technological solutions for a greener and energy-efficient future.

Pre-Conference Workshop Highlights 

• Microscopic Observation
  Participants will learn basic to advanced microscopic techniques for examining algal morphology, cell structure, and identification of key microalgal species 

• Algal Biofilm Staining
  Hands-on training in preparing, staining, and visualising algal biofilms using standard dyes to understand biofilm formation and structural characteristics 

• Dye Decolourization
  A practical demonstration of the ability of microalgae to decolourise industrial dyes, highlighting their bioremediation potential and metabolic capabilities 

• Photobioreactor Operations
  Introduction to photobioreactor setup, working principles, parameter optimisation, and real-time monitoring for algal mass cultivation 

• Algal Culture Maintenance
  Training on aseptic handling, sub-culturing, media preparation, and long-term maintenance of algal strains is essential for research and industry.

Experience the latest innovations and emerging technologies at our Product Display Showcase, presenting a diverse range of products, prototypes, and solutions developed by academic teams, start-ups, research organizations, and industry leaders 

This dedicated exhibition space provides a platform for participants to:

• Explore the latest advancements in biotechnology, algal research, analytical instruments, and sustainable technologies.

• Interact directly with developers, innovators, and industry experts to gain insights into product features, performance, and applications.

• Experience hands-on demonstrations of equipment, laboratory tools, software solutions, and novel biomaterials.

• Identify collaboration opportunities, research partnerships, and technology transfer prospects.

• Learn about commercial applications of emerging bioproducts, including nutraceuticals, biocosmetics, functional foods, biofuels, and eco-friendly biomaterials.