Prof. Sarang Medhekar, Vice Chancellor Central University of Jharkhand and Prof. Manoj Kumar, Dean, Research & Development Cell, Central University of Jharkhand (CUJ), announced the successful completion of the iRISE Early Career Researcher (ECR) Level 1 Capacity Building Workshop, organised by the Central University of Jharkhand in association with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune from 28 to 30 July 2026 at the university campus..

The three-day workshop, conducted under the iRISE (Inspiring India in Research Innovation and STEM Education) initiative of IISER Pune, witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 101 Ph.D. scholars and early career researchers representing diverse STEM disciplines. The programme aimed to equip young researchers with essential professional and transferable skills, enabling them to excel in academia, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and science education..

The inaugural session was presided over by Prof. Sarang Medhekar, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Jharkhand. Dr. Sandeep S. Ghugre, Centre Director, UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research, Kolkata Centre, and Prof. (Dr.) Sunil Chandra Dubey, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, graced the occasion as the Chief Guests. The ceremony was attended by Shri K. Kosala Rao, Registrar, CUJ; Prof. Manoj Kumar, Dean, Academic Affairs; Dr. Manawa Diwekar-Joshi, IISER Coordinator; along with faculty members, researchers, scholars, and students..

In his presidential address, Prof. Sarang Medhekar emphasised the need for researchers to complement scientific excellence with multidisciplinary skills, innovation, communication, leadership, and entrepreneurial thinking. The dignitaries commended the collaborative efforts of CUJ and IISER Pune in creating a platform that prepares young researchers for the evolving demands of the scientific ecosystem..

The workshop featured three thematic modules delivered through interactive and experiential learning. The opening day focused on Scientific Communication, with Ms. Anita Nagarajan, Communications and Editing Consultant, guiding participants on effective scientific presentations, audience engagement, and presentation delivery through hands-on activities and group exercises..

The second day centred on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, led by Dr. Milind Choudhari, Founder and CEO of Weinnovate Biosolutions Pvt. Ltd. Participants experienced an engaging startup simulation covering problem identification, solution development, company formation, product development, fundraising, negotiation, commercialisation, and financial planning..

The concluding day focused on Science Pedagogy and Effective Teaching Practices, with sessions conducted by Dr. Manawa Diwekar-Joshi, Senior Technical Officer, IISER Pune, introducing participants to inquiry-based learning, learner-centred pedagogies, constructive alignment, innovative classroom practices, and career opportunities in science education..

The workshop was coordinated by the IISER Pune iRISE team under the leadership of Dr. Manawa Diwekar-Joshi and Ms. Vaishnavee Kulkarni in collaboration with the Research & Development Cell, CUJ. At the university level, Dr. Dharmendra Singh served as the Workshop Coordinator, while Dr. Ramesh Oraon served as Co-coordinator, playing a key role in the planning and successful execution of the programme.

The workshop concluded with a valedictory session, where participants shared positive feedback on the programme's interactive design and practical learning approach. The initiative successfully strengthened researchers' competencies in scientific communication, innovation, entrepreneurship, and effective teaching, reinforcing CUJ's commitment to promoting excellence in research and capacity building..