CSIR-CDRI Lucknow

Dr. Radha Rangarajan

Director, CSIR-CDRI

Director's Message

The Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) is a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) under the Department of Scientific & Industrial Research, Government of India, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. The Institute is engaged in the development of drugs, diagnostics and process technologies in disease areas of national relevance to enable affordable healthcare. Since its inception in 1951, CDRI has made significant advancements in its mission, with 13 drugs and more than 80 process technologies licensed to industry.

CSIR-CDRI is a unique biomedical research centre with strengths in basic and applied research. At present, our activities span 8 therapeutic areas: Microbial Infections, Parasitic Infections, Viral Infections, Cancer, Metabolic Disorders, Bone and musculoskeletal disorders, Neurological Disorders and Reproductive Health. Scientists are engaged in cutting edge fundamental research, aimed at dissecting cellular, molecular and chemical processes underlying pathological conditions. In addition, scientists have access to the full gamut of expertise in drug discovery and early clinical development, including medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and toxicology. This allows for a seamless translation from basic research into application. The Institute’s sizeable publication and patent portfolio reflects this blend of research capabilities.

CSIR-CDRI has a strong commitment to training the next generation of scientists. We offer Ph.D programs, short term skill development courses and research traineeships. Our alumni occupy leading roles in academia and industry across the world, a testament to the high quality learning experience and mentorship received at CDRI.

CSIR-CDRI works closely with partners in academia, industry and non-profit organizations. We have established collaborations with multiple international agencies such as Gates Foundation , Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV), Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), and BFI Biome Network (BFI). Our industry partners include Cipla, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Zydus Life Sciences, Themis Medicare, Escee Biotech and many others. Our clinical and academic collaborators include King George's Medical University, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, IITs, IISERs, NIPERs, DRDO, DBT/DST institutions and many others. We are supported by generous funding from diverse sources such as CSIR, ICMR, DBT, DST, BIRAC, IGNITE, BMGF, BFI.

Our collaboration models leverage complementary capabilities and promote innovative research and product development. We also offer R&D services to academia and industry. In particular, we support MSME in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector through the Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH), funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.

The CSIR-CDRI campus has state-of-the art laboratories equipped with advanced technologies and instruments. The campus houses sophisticated analytical and imaging facilities, a molecular and structural biology laboratory, a national facility for laboratory animals and a large repository of compounds. Of note, CSIR-CDRI has a NGCMA certified GLP facility for Regulatory toxicity and Safety Pharmacology studies for Pharmaceuticals.

With a multicultural community focused on high quality research, CSIR-CDRI’s commitment to addressing India’s healthcare needs remains resolute. It is our hope that the impact of our work continually expands and contributes to positive health outcomes.