About MRU
Multi-Disciplinary Research Unit at MMC&RI, Mysuru
Multi-Disciplinary Research Unit
In today’s fast-evolving healthcare landscape, India’s contribution to global medical research still lags behind several other countries. Much of the research output across medical subfields remains under-represented and inadequately integrated into the international scientific community. Recognizing this gap, the Department of Health Research (DHR) initiated the establishment of Multidisciplinary Research Units (MRUs) in selected government medical colleges across the country. These centres aim to foster a strong research culture and bridge the gap between clinicians and researchers.
About MRU
During the 12th plan period, the Indian Government conceptualized and introduced a central sector umbrella scheme of developing infrastructure for promotion of health research across the country. The Multidisciplinary Research Unit at Mysore Medical College & Research Institute (MMC&RI) is a landmark initiative, established in 2013 with funding from the Department of Health Research (DHR) and guidance from Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Vision and Mission
- Vision: To promote and encourage quality, ethical, and outcome-driven medical research within the institution.
- Mission: To serve as a comprehensive, end-to-end support system for research facilitating study planning, grant administration, documentation, and access to centralized, high-end laboratory equipment and infrastructure.
MRU primarily focuses on non-communicable diseases, addressing regional and national health priorities. It operates under the guidance of a Local Research Advisory Committee (LRAC), comprising experienced internal and external faculty and research scientists. Their collective efforts have shaped MRU into a model research unit among those established under the DHR initiative.
Objectives of MRU
- Undertaking of clinical trials.
- Undertaking of multi-centric research projects.
- Encouraging and strengthening research environment in medical colleges.
- Bridging infrastructural gap inhibiting health research in the institute.
- Capacity building and human resource development in the field of health research.
- Improving overall health status of the population by creating evidence-based application of diagnostic procedures/processes/methods.
MRU undertakes research primarily in non-communicable Diseases; other need-based projects may, however, can be undertaken as warranted and with the approval of the Competent Authority. For operating the MRU, an Executive Committee (EC) and a Local Research Advisory Committee (LRAC) is constituted. While EC ensures the inflow of proposals from faculty from various departments, and also review the same prior to presenting it to the LRAC, the LRAC approves research proposals and subsequently monitors their progress. The nodal officer, one of the members, selected by the head of the institution, oversees the functioning of the MRU.
What MRU Offers
- Infrastructure and Technical Support: Faculty at MMC&RI are encouraged to utilize MRU facilities to initiate and carry out their research.
- Research Grants: Research proposals from MMC&RI faculty are invited year-round, and evaluated biannually by the LRAC. Selected projects are eligible for limited intramural funding.
- Capacity Building: MRU conducts regular training programs and workshops on molecular techniques, biostatistics, and research methodology—particularly tailored for postgraduates and junior faculty.
Through its strategic initiatives, MRU continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of medical research at MMC&RI and beyond, contributing meaningfully to improved healthcare outcomes through scientific innovation.
Research Environment and Support
MRU is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure laboratory facilities essential for high-end, translational, and molecular research. Our qualified research team is well versed not only in advanced scientific techniques but also committed to nurturing a culture of integrity and professionalism in research.
The holistic vision of MMC&RI aligns with MRU’s goals—to build long-term institutional research capacity and to position the college as a key player in India’s healthcare research ecosystem.