Interaction Team
This series is dedicated to showcasing the remarkable achievements and vital contributions of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and its affiliated institutions. It aims to provide readers with insights into Pakistan’s nuclear advancements, including nuclear science, energy production, healthcare breakthroughs, agricultural innovations, and environmental conservation, all driven by PAEC’s pioneering efforts. The series draws extensively from the insightful book “Johari Nishtar e Tehqeeq,” the first-ever Urdu book on the topic, authored by the Chief Editor of the monthly Interaction, Nusrat Mirza. It offers a unique perspective on untold stories, significant milestones, and the unwavering commitment of PAEC and its dedicated scientists and researchers.
The Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology (NIAB) in Faisalabad is a prominent research and development center operating under the jurisdiction of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC). Established in 1967, NIAB officially commenced its research activities in 1970 and was inaugurated on April 6, 1972. Since its inception, NIAB has dedicated itself to the creation and preservation of new genetic material, with a primary focus on supporting sustainable agricultural development.
This commitment is realized through the institute’s emphasis on addressing applied problems in the fields of agriculture and biology, employing nuclear and related techniques.
At the core of NIAB’s operations is the utilization of ionizing radiations and radioisotopes, providing a distinctive advantage over conventional methods in agricultural and biological investigations. The institute is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experts who leverage nuclear and modern techniques to tackle challenges in crop production and conservation.
NIAB’s laboratories house a diverse range of instruments, including Cobalt-60 irradiation sources, radiation measuring instruments, amino acid analyzers, HPLC, gas chromatographs, PCR, Photo-documentation systems, capillary electrophoresis, DNA sequencers, colorimeters, atomic absorption, ultraviolet and infrared spectrophotometers, ICP, high-speed electrophoresis, N-15 analyzers, and more.
These advanced tools empower researchers to conduct precise and sophisticated experiments. In addition to cutting-edge equipment, NIAB boasts experimental facilities such as plant growth chambers, greenhouses, cold rooms, and well-equipped Integrated Pest Management (IMP) Labs.
These facilities cater to the specific needs of microorganisms, plants, insects, and animals by providing controlled temperature and humidity environments. The institute’s commitment to innovation extends to its well-staffed workshop, featuring electronics, air conditioning, electricity, glass-blowing, carpentry, and metalwork shops.
Beyond maintenance and repair duties, the workshop actively engages in fabricating instruments to meet the evolving research needs of the institute.
With its rich history dating back to 1972, the NIAB stands as a beacon of innovation, addressing critical challenges in agriculture and biology through the application of nuclear and modern techniques. NIAB continues to play a significant role in advancing sustainable agricultural practices through pioneering research and development.
