ICCS–2026 Brings Global Focus on Chitin and Chitosan Research to Amrita, Kochi

The International Conference on Chitin and Chitosan and the 12th Annual Indian Chitin and Chitosan Society Symposium (ICCS–2026) was successfully held on 30 and 31 January 2026 at Amrita Health Sciences Campus, Kochi, bringing together leading scientists, academicians, industry experts, and young researchers from India and across the world. Organised by School of Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine, School of Pharmacy in association with the Indian Chitin and Chitosan Society, ICCS–2026 served as a platform for advancing research, innovation, and collaboration in the field of chitin and chitosan—biopolymers with wide-ranging applications in healthcare, agriculture, environment, and industry.

The conference was inaugurated with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by addresses from eminent academic and scientific leaders. The inaugural session also featured the Marshall Award distribution, recognising outstanding contributions to chitin and chitosan research.

Over two days, ICCS–2026 hosted an extensive scientific programme comprising plenary lectures, keynote addresses, invited talks, industry sessions, and oral presentations. The sessions covered diverse themes including biomaterials for bone regeneration, antimicrobial and drug-resistant infection management, injectable hydrogels, wound healing, tissue engineering, nano-fertilisers, water remediation, cancer theranostics, sustainable agriculture, and large-scale industrial applications of chitosan.

International speakers from the United States, Japan, Iceland, and Thailand shared global perspectives, while leading Indian researchers highlighted cutting-edge work aligned with national priorities and societal needs. Industry experts provided insights into challenges and solutions for translating laboratory research into scalable and commercially viable technologies.

A key highlight of the conference was the active participation of young researchers and students, whose award talks and presentations reflected the growing momentum and future promise of biomaterials research in India.

In keeping with Amrita’s commitment to science and technology for human benefit, ICCS–2026 fostered meaningful dialogue between academia and industry, encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration, and reinforced the role of sustainable biopolymer research in addressing critical global challenges. The conference concluded with renewed commitment toward collaborative research and innovation that extends beyond the laboratory to real-world impact.