About the Lab
About the Lab
1. Introduction
The Laboratory was established in 2008 with the objective of strengthening scientific education, research, innovation and practical learning. Its establishment was made possible through financial and technical support from multiple national and international partners. Over the years, the Laboratory has evolved into a multidisciplinary center for scientific learning and research. With continued support from its partners and stakeholders, it remains committed to promoting academic excellence, innovation, and practical skill development.
2. Funding and Technical Support
The development and enhancement of the Laboratory have been supported by the following organizations:
1. Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB)
2. Government of India (GoI)
3. Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA)
4. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
5. SUNREM, NORHED Project
6. EU Erasmus+ Programme, SUNRAISE Project
7. Hirosaki–Bhutan Apple Project (Japan)
8. International Foundation for Science (IFS)
9. Royal Society for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (RS/STEM) Project
10. Asian Food and Agriculture Cooperation Initiative-Rural Development Administration(AFACI–RDA), South Korea
3. Organizational Structure
At present, the Laboratory comprises the following main branches:
i. Processing and Post-Harvest Laboratory
ii. Molecular Biology Laboratory
iii. General Science Laboratory
In addition, the construction of a Biotechnology Laboratory is currently underway. These units collectively support a wide range of academic, innovation and research activities.
4. Learning and Research Environment
The Laboratory plays a vital role in bridging theoretical knowledge and practical application. Each practical session is designed to encourage exploration, critical thinking, and innovation. Students and researchers actively engage in experimental work, fostering a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and methodologies.
Our multidisciplinary laboratories provide hands-on experimental learning, enabling students to apply scientific methods across diverse environmental domains.
We support advanced academic research and offer specialized analytical services, delivering precise scientific data for institutional and external needs.
Our laboratories feature calibrated scientific instruments and dedicated workspaces designed to support accurate, safe, and reliable investigations.
Capacity Building in Biodiversity Research 🧬
12-day training on “Molecular Techniques for Biodiversity Research”, being conducted for staff of the National Biodiversity Centre (NBC) from 6–17 February 2026.This intensive, hands-on training is designed to strengthen practical and analytical skills in molecular biology and bioinformatics for biodiversity research and conservation. Participants will gain experience in DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing, sequence analysis, phylogenetics, and population genetics, along with discussions on applying molecular data to conservation planning and biodiversity prioritization.
The program reflects CNR’s continued commitment to supporting national institutions through capacity building, research collaboration, and the application of modern molecular tools for evidence-based conservation in Bhutan. This training is being conducted in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Centre (NBC), with funding support from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Royal Government of Bhutan.
We look forward to an engaging and productive training period that contributes to strengthening biodiversity research and conservation efforts in the country.
Nutritional Profiling of Mushrooms
The College of Natural Resources is hosting a six-day training program on Nutritional Profiling of Mushrooms. Participants include officials from NMC, ARDC Wangkhar, ARDC Samtenling, and ARDC Bajo.
This training program equips participants with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in the nutritional profiling of mushrooms. Participants will learn standard laboratory methods for proximate composition analysis and selected mineral testing. The program emphasizes proper sample preparation, quality control, and accurate data reporting.
The training is facilitated by Mr. Karma Wangchuk, Mr. Sonam Moktan, and Ms. Sumitra Monger from the Laboratory Section, College of Natural Resources.
The College of Natural Resources is hosting a two-day eDNA training for laboratory technicians on 18–19 December at the eDNA Laboratory. The program is designed to enhance participants’ technical expertise in eDNA laboratory maintenance, sample preparation and extraction, and PCR operation. The training is facilitated by Mr. Karma Sherub from the Department of Forestry Science.
On behalf of the laboratory team, we extend our sincere gratitude to(PI) Mr. Karma Wangchuk and Mr. Laxmi Sagar for their valuable support in procuring laboratory equipment through the project. This equipment has significantly contributed to enhancing academic learning and advancing research activities. We look forward to continued collaboration and support in the future.
1. Karma Wangchuk (Nu. 510,000)
2. Laxmi Sagar (Nu. 662,700)
Ms. Sumitra Monger, Lab Assistant, is participating in a two-week training program on laboratory management, analytical techniques, and laboratory documentation at the National Soil Service Centre, Thimphu, from 23 November to 6 December 2025.
The post monsoon data collection for project Water Quality and Aquatic Ecology Assessment of Wangchhu Hydropower Project from date 3 November to 24 November.
Participant from the College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan, is currently attending a week-long capacity-building training on Food Analysis at Mahidol University, Thailand, from 30 January to 7 February 2025.
This training aims to enhance practical skills and knowledge in laboratory food testing, quality analysis, and research-based techniques.
College of Natural Resources
Lobesa, Punakha, Bhutan
Postal Code: 14001
webmaster: +97517531043
Email: sciencelab.cnr@rub.edu.bt
Ground floor : Sample Reception, Analytical Lab.
1st floor: Nutrient Lab
2nd floor : Staff Office, Biotechnology Lab
3rd floor: Common Lab
4th floor: Museum, Entomology Lab