Invited Lecture on "Opportunities in Chemistry, with a Spotlight on the Journey of Drug Molecules” by Dr Vipan Kumar, Associate Professor, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar

The invited talk by Dr. Vipan Kumar, an Associate Professor at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, was organized by the P.G. Department of Chemistry at Khalsa College, Amritsar, on 19/10/2023. The lecture was hosted by the Dunnicliff Chemical Society, Department of Chemistry, and began at 11:30 AM. Dr. Mehal Singh, the Principal of Khalsa College, Amritsar, and Dr. Taminder Singh, the Dean of Academics, welcomed Dr. Vipan Kumar and expressed their gratitude to him. The Welcome Note's purpose was to introduce the speaker, set the tone for the lecture, and extend a warm welcome to all attendees. Dr. Amit Anand, the Head of the Department of Chemistry, also welcomed Dr. Kumar. Miss. Sharon, a third-semester M.Sc. Chemistry student, managed the stage throughout. The title of the talk was "Opportunities in Chemistry, with a Spotlight on the Journey of Drug Molecules.

The session aimed to shed light on the diverse career opportunities in chemistry and the significance of chemistry in drug design. The speaker discussed a wide range of career opportunities available to individuals with a background in chemistry, including academia, industry, research, and government roles. Various branches of chemistry, such as analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, were explored to showcase the diversity of options available.

Furthermore, the lecturer emphasized the importance of research in chemistry and how it drives innovation in the drug industry. He provided examples of groundbreaking discoveries in medicinal chemistry that have had a significant impact on society. He discussed how chemists contribute to drug development, quality control, and sustainability in the pharmaceutical industry. The lecturer also discussed the challenges associated with drug design, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and the importance of staying updated with the latest advancements in the field.

Overall, the lecture was enlightening and inspiring, providing valuable insights into the diverse career paths available to those interested in chemistry and highlighting the crucial role chemistry plays in shaping the world around us. The audience was encouraged to explore their interests and passions within the field.

A valedictory function was held at the end of the seminar. Dr. Hardeep Kaur, an Associate Professor of Chemistry, thanked Dr. Kumar, the professors, and the students for their valuable cooperation in making this seminar a grand success.