Coimbatore: Union Minister of Defence A.K. Antony will inaugurate the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) - Bharathiar University (BU) Centre for Life Sciences of the University on February 2, Vice-Chancellor of the varsity C. Swaminathan told in a press conference here recently.

"A joint venture of the DRDO and the university had been set up at a cost of Rs.20 crore," said the VC.

While the funding was by the DRDO, the university research assistants would undertake the research activities.

For research assistants and scientists to carry out Defence related Research and Development (R&D) activities, the centre boasts of a state-of-the-art laboratory and a digital library which would be a hub for them.

"The research would focus on areas like bio-nano technology, bio-chemical sensing, bio-remediation, remote sensing and nano-particulate drug delivery," said the VC

The centre has already introduced an energy-efficient battery cell that could be used by military personnel on duty in high altitudes or in remote places for communication purposes.

The DRDO would put in use the technology for the cell accordingly.

The VC also announced laying off the foundation of a transit hostel by the Minister for the research assistants who would be attached to the centre. The deal would cost them Rs.5 crore.

V.K. Saraswath, Scientific Adviser to the Defence Minister, A. Sivathanu Pillai, Distinguished Scientist and Chief Controller, Research and Development, DRDO, and Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, BrahMos Aerospace, W. Selvamurthy, Chief Controller, Research and Development, DRDO, are expected to attend the inaugural function.