Meenakshi Medical College Hospital and Research Institute (MMCHRI), Kanchipuram, in collaboration with the Department of Microbiology/Virology, marked a significant academic milestone on 17th February 2026 with the inauguration of the MAHER Centre for Infectious Diseases. The centre was formally inaugurated by Guido Silvestri, Vice President for Basic and Translational Research, Woodruff Health Sciences Center, Emory University, Atlanta, USA.
The ceremony was further distinguished by the presence of eminent international experts, including Jason T. Blackard from the University of Cincinnati, USA, and Vijayakumar Velu from Emory University, USA. Their participation underscored the global collaborative vision of the Centre and its commitment to advancing translational research in infectious diseases.
The Dean and faculty members from various departments of MMCHRI graced the occasion, reflecting strong institutional support for interdisciplinary research and innovation. The establishment of the MAHER Centre for Infectious Diseases represents a strategic step toward strengthening research in emerging infections, virology, immunology, and evidence-based clinical interventions.
The inauguration marks the beginning of a new era in collaborative, translational, and globally connected infectious disease research.
