The seminar on “Climate Change and Microbial Diversity of Polar Regions” was organized by the Department of Microbiology and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) at Sree Sankara College, Kalady on 11/08/2023. The event aimed to create awareness and provide insights into the impact of climate change on the microbial diversity of polar regions. The seminar featured Dr. AA Mohamed Hatha, a distinguished senior Professor and Head of the Departments of Marine Biology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry at Cochin University Of Science and Technology, as the resource person. The seminar drew the participation of 170 attendees, primarily Postgraduate (PG) Microbiology and Biochemistry students, as well as undergraduate (UG) students of Microbiology and Biotechnology.

Dr. AA Mohamed Hatha, the esteemed resource person, delivered a talk on the intricate relationship between climate change and microbial diversity in polar regions. He highlighted the pivotal role of microbes in maintaining ecological balance, nutrient cycling, and overall ecosystem health. Dr. Hatha presented compelling research findings and case studies illustrating the impact of temperature rise, melting ice, and altered precipitation patterns on microbial communities. He also discussed the potential consequences of these changes on larger Arctic and Antarctic ecosystems.

The seminar also included an interactive session where participants had the opportunity to engage with Dr. Hatha and seek clarifications on various aspects of microbial diversity and climate change. Participants posed thought-provoking questions, fostering a stimulating exchange of ideas and knowledge.