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Loyola College (Autonomous), Chennai · Est. 1925  ·  CIMSER — Centre for Insect Molecular Studies and Environmental Research  ·  PG & Research Department of Advanced Zoology and Biotechnology
  About CIMSER

Where insect science meets the environment

The Centre for Insect Molecular Studies and Environmental Research (CIMSER) was established on 19 December 2018 with the blessings of Rev. Dr. F. Andrew, S.J. Under the leadership of its Director, Dr. M. Raja, CIMSER has successfully conducted many State, National and International level seminars and conferences.

Insect Molecular Biology

Research on insect biology at the molecular level, supporting biocontrol and sustainable pest management.

Biocontrol & Biopesticides

Eco-friendly alternatives that reduce dependence on chemical pesticides in agriculture and public health.

Vector-Borne Diseases

Work towards the prevention and control of vector-borne diseases through research, outreach and community action.

Seminars & Conferences

A regular programme of State, National and International seminars and conferences for researchers and students.

2018
  Our journey

Milestones of CIMSER

From its founding in December 2018 to the hosting of VRMIC 2026, CIMSER has grown into an active centre for insect molecular studies, environmental research and public-health outreach.

Four research scholars have completed their Ph.D. degrees under the guidance of the Director, Dr. M. Raja.

19 December 2018 · Founded
CIMSER is established at Loyola College with the blessings of Rev. Dr. F. Andrew, S.J.
2018 · Logo unveiling
Dr. B. Vasantharaj David, Chairman of the Scientific/Academic Board, International Institute of Biotechnology and Toxicology, unveils the CIMSER logo.
Seminars & conferences
Many State, National and International level seminars and conferences are conducted under the Directorship of Dr. M. Raja.
Research guidance
Four research scholars complete their Ph.D. degrees under the guidance of Dr. M. Raja.
26–28 November 2026 · VRMIC 2026
CIMSER hosts the 4th International Conference on Life Sciences & Vector Risk Management.
2026 · New initiative
Launch of M-BEAT — Mosquito Breeding Site Elimination and Assessment Team — with Greater Chennai Corporation and AHC Foundation.
  Blessings & presence

The founding occasion

CIMSER was inaugurated with the blessings and presence of distinguished academics and leaders.

Rev. Dr. F. Andrew, S.J.

Whose blessings marked the establishment of CIMSER.

Blessings

Dr. B. Vasantharaj David

Chairman, Scientific/Academic Board, International Institute of Biotechnology and Toxicology.

Unveiled the logo

Dr. M. G. Ragunathan

Assistant Professor, Gurunanak College, Chennai.

Graced the occasion

Dr. J. Mary Vimala Kalaiarasi

Head of the Department, PG & Research Dept. of Advanced Zoology and Biotechnology, Loyola College.

Graced the occasion
  Leadership

Director, CIMSER

Director
Dr. M. Raja
Dr. M. Raja
Director – CIMSER · Assistant Professor
M.Sc., M.Phil., Ph.D., M.B.A. (HR), F.E.S.I., F.R.E.S (London)
Insect Molecular Biology, Biocontrol, Biopesticide
Research Supervisor, CIMSER

Research supervisor & conference convener

Dr. M. Raja is an Assistant Professor at Loyola College and the Director of CIMSER. With around 14 years of academic experience, his expertise spans entomology, biocontrol and insect molecular biology. He has guided many students and research scholars — four scholars have so far completed their Ph.D. degrees under his guidance.

He has successfully conducted many State, National and International level seminars and conferences, and serves as the Convener of VRMIC 2026. He is a Fellow of the Entomological Society of India (F.E.S.I.) and of the Royal Entomological Society, London (F.R.E.S).

Insect Molecular BiologyBiocontrolBiopesticidesEntomologyVector-Borne Diseases
  A CIMSER milestone

Our conference

4th International Conference on Life Sciences & Vector Risk Management for a Sustainable Healthy Environment

Organised by CIMSER, bringing together researchers, academicians, students and public-health stakeholders to address vector risk management and a sustainable, healthy environment.

26–28 November 2026 Loyola College (Autonomous), Chennai Convener: Dr. M. Raja
About the Conference
  New initiative by CIMSER

M-BEAT: student-led mosquito control

M-BEAT

Stop mosquitoes where they start.

Mosquito Breeding Site Elimination and Assessment Team — student-led teams that find and remove breeding sources on Chennai college campuses.

Register as a student

What M-BEAT sets out to do

An initiative by CIMSER, Loyola College (Autonomous), with Greater Chennai Corporation and AHC Foundation.

  • Identify and eliminate mosquito breeding sources within participating college premises through regular surveillance and source reduction by student-led teams.
  • Establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for mosquito-breeding-free campuses.
  • Promote Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) on vector surveillance, source reduction and preventive measures.
  • Institutionalize periodic inspections, self-monitoring and reporting with Corporation officials.
  • Recognize and certify colleges that consistently maintain breeding-free premises.
  • Develop model institutions to replicate the initiative across Chennai.

What students gain

Practical exposure to environmental health, vector surveillance and community service.

  • M-BEAT Membership Certificate
  • Environmental Volunteer Recognition
  • Mosquito & Vector-Control Field Experience
  • Practical Field Assessment Experience
  • Greater Chennai Corporation Collaboration Experience
  • CV / Resume Enhancement
  • Community Service Experience

  Ready to join?

Colleges around Chennai can register and become members. Students can register online — confirmation is sent by email and you will be added to the WhatsApp group.

College administration: please circulate the registration link among interested students.

Open the registration form
  M-BEAT events

M-BEAT activities & events

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  Join the CIMSER community

Register for the conference or become an M-BEAT member from your college.

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