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28
workshop

Petri Dish Challenge

Wednesday, October 28, 2026 · 5:30 am – 5:30 pm

Events/Petri Dish Challenge
by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras
microbiologybiotechnologyiit-madrasstudent-competition+4 more
Oct
28
5:30 am – 5:30 pm
Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Price

Free

Register Free

Apply by

6 Dec 2026

About

Overview

The Petri Dish Challenge is a two-round microbiology competition hosted by IIT Madras that asks participants to identify an unknown bacterial culture using standard laboratory techniques. It is designed for students who want to move beyond textbook theory and work hands-on with real microbial samples, experimental data, and scientific reasoning.

Format

  • Round 1 - Online Quiz (Unstop): Approximately 30-40 questions covering biotechnology, microbiology, and microbiology laboratory techniques. Held December 12-13, 2026. Participants must attempt at least one quiz to be considered for qualification.
  • Final Round - Offline at IIT Madras: Shortlisted participants gather at the UG Labs on January 4-5, 2027, where each receives an unknown bacterial sample and conducts a full laboratory investigation.

What to Expect in the Final Round

  • Staining and cell morphology work, including cotton blue staining
  • Cell count and viable cell determination
  • Antibiotic susceptibility testing and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)
  • Lactose fermentation and extracellular enzyme activity/synthesis
  • Motility testing and biochemical characterisation
  • Hands-on experiments, lab report preparation, live presentations, and a viva

Who It's For

Undergraduate and postgraduate students from all disciplines - engineering, science, medical, arts, commerce, management, and law - with an interest in microbiology, microbial identification, biotechnology, biomedical sciences, wet-lab techniques, and experimental reasoning. Team size is one (individual participation).

Evaluation Criteria

Selection and execution of appropriate laboratory tests, accuracy of observations and interpretation, scientific reasoning and evidence supporting bacterial identification, quality and clarity of the lab report and presentation, and performance during the viva.

Prizes

Winner receives ₹75,000. Total prize pool: ₹75,000.

Registration Deadline: December 6, 2026.

About the Organiser

IIT Madras is one of India's premier technical institutes and a hub for deep-tech research and student innovation, regularly hosting national-level science and engineering competitions.

Oct
28
5:30 am – 5:30 pm
Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Price

Free

Register Free

Apply by

6 Dec 2026

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StartupGrantsIndia

India's startup funding directory — grants, schemes, competition and perks in one place. We help startups and SMEs discover, evaluate, and win non-dilutive funding through grants, challenges, and government schemes. We don't just list opportunities—we help you understand eligibility, assess fit, track deadlines, and apply smarter. From discovery to submission, we make grant funding simpler and more accessible.

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