INTRODUCTION

The University Science Instrumentation Centre (USIC), University of Jammu, is gradually evolving as a pivotal central facility dedicated to the development, maintenance, upgradation, and optimal utilization of scientific instruments and research infrastructure across the University. Since its establishment in August 1987 with the appointment of a Senior Scientific Officer (SSO), USIC has consistently worked to nurture and promote a strong culture of scientific instrumentation within higher education. Over the years, its sustained efforts have significantly strengthened the experimental and analytical ecosystem of the university, enabling interdisciplinary research and innovation across the Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Applied Sciences.

The technological framework of USIC is organized into four major functional sections, Electrical, Glass Blowing, Refrigeration, and Electronics & Analytical Services, which collectively provide comprehensive technical support to teaching and research laboratories. Through these specialized sections, USIC has played a vital role in ensuring uninterrupted laboratory operations, equipment customization, repair, and modernization, thereby enhancing research efficiency and experimental reliability across departments.

In recent years, USIC has achieved a major milestone with the installation of several state-of-the-art scientific instruments, marking a new phase in the research capabilities of the University. Notably, the commissioning of advanced Inverted, Upright, and Fluorescence Microscopes, each equipped with high-resolution digital imaging systems, has substantially expanded the scope of research in cellular biology, molecular diagnostics, neuroscience, and materials science. These instruments facilitate precision imaging, live-cell analysis, and fluorescence-based assays. In particular, the fluorescence microscope has enabled advanced visualization of biomolecular interactions, significantly strengthening experimental approaches in modern biological research.

Further augmenting the biomedical and biochemical research infrastructure, USIC has installed a modern ELISA Reader and Washer, enabling rapid and accurate quantification of biomolecules such as hormones, cytokines, and enzymes. A Biochemical Analyzer has also been commissioned, supporting a wide range of metabolic and enzymatic assays essential for physiology, endocrinology, and translational research. Additionally, the installation of a Haematoanalyzer has streamlined hematological analyses, benefiting ongoing research involving both animal and human models.

To ensure precision, reproducibility, and long-term sample integrity, USIC is now equipped with advanced centrifuge systems, –20°C and –80°C deep freezers for long-term biological storage, and a modern Water Purification System that provides ultrapure water for molecular and analytical experiments. The availability of essential laboratory equipment such as Hot Air Oven, Analytical Balance, and pH Meter further enhances laboratory accuracy and operational reliability. Collectively, these facilities have transformed USIC into a comprehensive, centralized hub capable of supporting high-quality teaching, hands-on training, and advanced research.

A particularly significant advancement is the upcoming installation of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Real-Time PCR (qPCR) systems, which are expected to become operational shortly. These instruments will substantially enhance the capabilities of the University in molecular biology, genetics, biotechnology, and environmental research by enabling sensitive amplification and quantitative analysis of nucleic acids, critical for genomics, diagnostics, and gene-expression studies.

Beyond infrastructure development, USIC continues to excel due to the expertise, commitment, and coordinated efforts of its technical and administrative personnel. Mr. Rajesh Goswami (Junior Technical Assistant, Glass Blowing) plays a key role in fabricating and repairing specialized glassware required for experimental setups across departments. Mr. Jeevan Kumar (Junior Technical Assistant, Electrical) efficiently manages electrical maintenance and instrumentation connectivity, ensuring uninterrupted functioning of laboratory equipment. Mr. Anil Charak (Technician, Refrigeration) provides crucial support in the maintenance and servicing of refrigeration and cooling systems. These technical operations are coordinated by Er. Vivek Sharma (Senior Technical Assistant), who oversees maintenance schedules and technical workflows.

Administrative and logistical operations of USIC are efficiently managed by Mr. Yog Raj Singh (Head Assistant), Mr. Nishant Sharma (Senior Assistant), Mr. Raj Kumar (Workshop Attendant), and Ms. Jyoti (MTS), whose collective efforts ensure the smooth day-to-day functioning of the Centre. In addition to their responsibilities within USIC, Mr. Yog Raj Singh is also assisting the Office of the Convener, UTSAAH – The Clubs, while Mr. Nishant Sharma provides support to the Office of the Chairperson, Campuses Development Advisory Committee, reflecting their commitment beyond assigned duties.

In addition to technical services, USIC plays a crucial institutional role in supporting the procurement of sophisticated scientific instruments for various departments of the University of Jammu. The Centre is also instrumental in the systematic disposal of unserviceable scientific equipment and e-waste, ensuring compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.

The proactive stewardship of the Honorary Director has been instrumental in steering USIC toward new heights, ensuring timely procurement, installation, and operationalization of advanced instrumentation. Supported by the strong, dynamic, and visionary administrative leadership and sustained financial backing of the University of Jammu, USIC continues to grow as a vibrant nucleus of scientific research, innovation, and capacity building.

Together, the dedicated human resources and newly strengthened infrastructure have firmly positioned USIC as a cornerstone of scientific excellence at the University of Jammu, empowering faculty, researchers, and students to pursue high-impact, globally competitive, and interdisciplinary research.