Facility

Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL)

Institute of Microbiology, Madras Medical College and Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai – 03


A Brief Overview

  • The Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL), Institute of Microbiology, Madras Medical College and Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital (MMC & RGGGH) commenced on 01.11.2019. Initiation of diagnostic services began on 19.03.2020.
  • VRDL, MMC & RGGGH is a fully equipped, state-of-the-art laboratory that provides comprehensive viral diagnostics for outbreak investigation and supports advanced research in virology.
  • VRDL was NABL Accredited as per ISO 15189:2012 in 2023.
  • VRDL, MMC & RGGGH was in the forefront in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic 2020 to 2022. More than twenty three lakh Molecular RT-PCR tests have been performed for the detection of SARS -CoV2 virus during the COVID-19 Pandemic from 2020 till date.
  • It continues to offer Molecular and Serological diagnostic services for over 16 viral pathogens, catering to patients from Tamilnadu and neighbouring states, attending Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital.
  • VRDL, MMC also provides specialized Molecular testing for BK Virus (BKV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), Parvo Virus (PV) and other opportunistic viral infections for Solid organ and Bone marrow transplant recipients.
  • VRDL, Madras Medical College has been designated as Medical Device Testing laboratory by the Quality Control of India (QCI) for standardisation of Medical Devices and viral test kits.
  • VRDL, MMC ensures high quality performance of testing for Arboviral Serology and Molecular Virology testing for Influenza and COVID-19 viruses by participating in Proficiency Testing (PT) in Virology External Quality Assessment Scheme (EQAS) conducted by Christian Medical College, Vellore and National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.
  • VRDL, MMC and RGGGH actively contributes to capacity building by organizing 18 CMEs and training workshops for health personnel in various colleges.
  • VRDL, MMC and RGGGH is actively involved in research work. 11 research papers have already been completed in previous years and 3 are ongoing. More than 5 research articles have been published by us in reputable national and international journals.

In-Charge & Human Resources

S. No Designation Name & Details
1 Principal Investigator Dr. N. Rathnapriya
Professor, Institute of Microbiology
2 Co-Principal Investigator Dr. Jayachitra J
Senior Assistant Professor, Institute of Microbiology
3 Human Resources Dr. S. Arockia Doss, Ph.D., Scientist – B (Non-Medical)
Dr. A. Selva Prabhu, Ph.D., Scientist – B (Non-Medical)
Mr. A. Usman, M.Sc., DMLT, Research Assistant
Mr. A. Mohamed Yasar, Lab Technician
Mr. K. V. Kumar, Lab Technician
Mr. S. Navinraj, Data Entry Operator
Mrs. S. Reshma Banu, Multi-Tasking Staff

Projects

Sl. No Title of the Research Project Status
1 Zika virus surveillance by Real Time PCR (March 2022 to January 2023). Project initiated by ICMR–National Institute of Virology, Pune and coordinated by ICMR, New Delhi. Completed
2 Burden and Sequelae of Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 associated SARI among adult Indian population – INSPIRES Project, in collaboration with AIIMS and CDC, Atlanta. Ongoing
3 Tamil Nadu – Non-Communicable Diseases (TN-NCD): Human Papilloma Virus DNA testing – A pilot study on comparative analysis to determine an efficient HPV DNA testing platform and feasibility of utilizing existing RT-PCR equipment for mass cervical cancer screening, in collaboration with Institute of Virology, MMC. Completed
4 Prevalence of Cytomegalovirus and Epstein Barr Virus infection among SLE patients attending a tertiary care hospital – Tamil Nadu State Research Committee (TNSRC). Completed
5 Immunological and Molecular methods for laboratory diagnosis of urogenital Chlamydial infections among high-risk population attending a tertiary care hospital in Chennai – An analytical study. Completed
6 Coronavirus Disease 2019 – Prevalence and RT-PCR Positivity: A Tertiary Care Hospital Experience. Completed
7 Genomic Distribution of SARS-CoV-2 Variants – A Tertiary Care Hospital Experience. Completed
8 Genomic Characterization of S-Gene Target Failure (SGTF) by RT-PCR detecting Omicron as a Variant of Concern during the COVID-19 pandemic – A Retrospective Study. Completed
9 A study on etiological and clinical profile of chronic liver disease. Completed
10 Seroprevalence of HBV and its co-infection with HDV and HCV in patients attending a tertiary care centre. Completed
11 Seroprevalence and etiological spectrum of Viral Hepatitis among acute hepatitis patients attending a tertiary care hospital – A retrospective study. Completed
12 Molecular surveillance of Dengue virus – Insights into seroprevalence and serotype distribution in a tertiary care hospital in South India. Completed
13 Incidence of Norovirus infection in renal transplant recipients in a tertiary care hospital in South India – Tamil Nadu State Research Committee (TNSRC). Ongoing
14 Torque Teno Virus as a biomarker of immunocompetence in solid organ transplant recipients. Ongoing

Events

Sl. No Title of CMEs / Training Workshops No. of Participants
1 Conducted two days workshop on “A peep into the world of Viruses” with hands on training in Real time PCR, ELISA, Cell culture techniques for 2nd year to final year MBBS students from 13.05.2024 and 14.05.2024. 20
2 Conducted CME on Beyond cellular Doctrine - Molecular Diagnosis (Hands on training for MD Biochemistry Post graduates) in collaboration with the Department of Biochemistry on 06.06.2024. 45
3 Hands on training workshop on RT PCR to MD Pathology students on 06.06.2024. 45
4 Conducted CME on “MPOX Outbreak -Public Health Emergency of International Concern” on 27.08.2024. 344
5 Training on Molecular techniques & Virology for MD Biochemistry Post graduates on 23.08.2024 to 21.09.2024. 11
6 Conducted CME On “Neurotrophic viruses - An Interdisciplinary Approach (Integrated learning on Neurotrophic viruses)” on 19.11.2024 for MD Postgraduates of Medicine, Neurology, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Pediatrics, Preventive & Social Medicine, Microbiology & Biochemistry along with CRMIs & MBBS students. 38
7 Conducted CME On “Evaluation of Breathlessness - An Interdisciplinary Approach (Integrated learning on Respiratory viruses)” on 12.12.2024 for MD Postgraduates of Medicine, Anaesthesiology, Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics & Microbiology along with CRMIs & MBBS students. 40
8 Conducted CME On “Human Metapneumo Virus - Cause For Concern?” on 09.01.2025. 61
9 VRDL, MMC has conducted CME on “Viral Infections in Immunosuppression - An Interdisciplinary Approach” on 25.02.2025 for MD Postgraduates of Medicine, Nephrology, Pediatric Nephrology, Hepatology, Medical Gastroenterology, Pediatrics & Microbiology along with CRMIs & MBBS students. 25
10 Training Workshop for MD Biochemistry Post graduates on Real time PCR and ELISA from 03.03.2024 to 10.03.2024. 10
11 Training for MBBS students on Virology (Elective subject) 8
12 Conducted training “Orientation on Molecular techniques in Virology” for MBBS 2nd year students on 24.03.2025 to 26.03.2025. 258
13 PRIME - PCR and ELISA: Integrated Molecular Essentials- Capacity Building Training program for DMLT Students on 25.09.2025. 71
14 MELT: Capacity Building workshop on molecular and ELISA testing (MELT) for DMLT students on 15.10.2025. 69
Academic Forum

Scholarships

Scholarships for students are financial awards granted to support a student’s education, typically based on academic achievement, financial need, talent, or specific criteria set by the sponsoring organization. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them a valuable resource for reducing the cost of education.

UG Section - Office Notice:

All information regarding scholarships—including application details and the application process—is available at the UG Section in the office, located on the 2nd floor of the college campus.

Note: Once a scholarship is received, students must submit an official letter to the UG Section informing them of the scholarship received.

Types of scholarships:

  • Merit-based scholarships:Awarded for academic excellence, leadership, or achievements in areas such as sports, arts, or community service.
  • Need-based scholarships:Granted to students who demonstrate financial need, helping to ensure access to education regardless of economic background.
    • Tamil Pudhalvan
    • Pudhumai Penn Scholarship
  • Demographic / background-based scholarships:Aimed at supporting students from certain ethnic, regional, or underrepresented groups.
    • Community Scholarships for BC, MBC, SC/ST
    • NSP Scheme for Higher Education for ST Students
  • Institutional scholarships:Provided by universities or colleges to attract and support talented or deserving students.
  • Stae Govt. , Central Govt. , Private and external scholarships:  Funded by corporations, non-profits, foundations, or government programs.
    • PM Vidhyalaxmi Scheme

Applying for Scholarships

Applying for scholarships usually involves submitting:

  • Academic records
  • Personal statements
  • Recommendation letters
  • Project proposals
  • Savings account in any of the national banks details.
Scholarships not only ease financial burdens but also boost a student’s resume, confidence, and access to further opportunities.

Awards and Achievements

  • VRDL, Madras Medical College, Chennai was accredited with NABL Certification as per ISO 15189:2012 in the year 2023.
  • VRDL, MMC has been selected by ICMR as a potential Medical Device Testing Laboratory (MDTL) for validation of In-Vitro Diagnostics (IVDs) for CDSCO – Initiated and under process from 2024.
  • VRDL, MMC has been selected by ICMR as a Surveillance Site for the study on “Hospital Based Waste Water Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistant (AMR) Pathogens” – Initiated and under process from 2025.
  • VRDL, MMC has been designated as a Sentinel Surveillance Hospital (SSH) for Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis by the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), Directorate General of Health Services – Initiated and under process from 2025.
VRDL Awards and Achievements

Fees for Paramedical & AHS Courses

Fee Details 2025-2026

B.Pharm / B.Pharm (L.E.)

Sl. No. Fees Details B.Pharm (Gen.) B.Pharm (SC/ST) B.Pharm (PwD)
1 Tuition Fees 3000 - -
2 Special Fees 500 500 -
3 Library Fees 1000 1000 1000
4 Caution Deposit 1000 1000 1000
5 L.C 300 300 300
6 N.S.S. 10 10 10
7 Y.R.C. Society 10 10 10
8 HSC Mark Sheet Verification Fee 177 177 177
9 Miscellaneous Fee 100 100 100
10 University Regn. Fees 4150 4150 4150
11 Flag Day 100 100 100
12 e-Consortium Fees 600 600 600
13 University Lib. Fee + GST 18% 590 590 590
14 University Sports Fee + GST 18% 118 118 118
15 Cost of Regn. Application + GST 18% 118 118 118
16 Miscellaneous Fee 500 500 500
Total 12,273 9,273 8,773
Fees Details 2025-2026
Nursing
Paramedical Diploma & Certificate Courses 2025-2026

Fee Details 2025-2026

B.Pharm / B.Pharm (L.E.)

Sl. No. Fees Details B.Pharm (Gen.) B.Pharm (SC/ST) B.Pharm (PwD)
1 Tuition Fees 3000 - -
2 Special Fees 500 500 -
3 Library Fees 1000 1000 1000
4 Caution Deposit 1000 1000 1000
5 L.C 300 300 300
6 N.S.S. 10 10 10
7 Y.R.C. Society 10 10 10
8 HSC Mark Sheet Verification Fee 177 177 177
9 Miscellaneous Fee 100 100 100
10 University Regn. Fees 4150 4150 4150
11 Flag Day 100 100 100
12 e-Consortium Fees 600 600 600
13 University Lib. Fee + GST 18% 590 590 590
14 University Sports Fee + GST 18% 118 118 118
15 Cost of Regn. Application + GST 18% 118 118 118
16 Miscellaneous Fee 500 500 500
Total 12,273 9,273 8,773

Fees for Paramedical & AHS Courses

Fee Details 2025-2026

M.Pharmacy (Postgraduate)

Sl. No. Fee Details M.Pharmacy (Rs.)
1 Tuition Fees 5,000
2 Special Fees 500
3 Library Fees 500
4 University Registration Fees 6,422
5 Caution Deposit 2,000
6 NSS 10
7 Bond 50
8 Youth Red Cross 10
9 Flag Day 5
10 E-Journals 200
Total 16,197
Fees Details 2025-2026
Nursing
Paramedical Diploma & Certificate Courses 2025-2026

Fee Details 2025-2026

M.Pharmacy (Postgraduate)

Sl. No. Fee Details M.Pharmacy (Rs.)
1 Tuition Fees 5,000
2 Special Fees 500
3 Library Fees 500
4 University Registration Fees 6,422
5 Caution Deposit 2,000
6 NSS 10
7 Bond 50
8 Youth Red Cross 10
9 Flag Day 5
10 E-Journals 200
Total 16,197

Fees for Paramedical & AHS Courses

Fee Details 2025-2026

B.Sc. Courses

Sl. No. Fees Details Gen. SC/ST PwD
1 Tuition Fees 3000 - -
2 Special Fees 500 500 -
3 Library Fees 1000 1000  
4 Caution Deposit 1000 1000 1000
5 LIC - - -
6 N.S.S. 10 10 10
7 Y.R.C. Society 10 10 10
8 HSC Mark Sheet Verification Fee 177 177 177
9 Miscellaneous Fee 100 100 100
10 University Registration Fees 2650 2650 2650
11 Flag Day 100 100 100
12 e-Consortium Fees 600 600 600
13 University Lib. Fee + GST 18% 590 590 590
14 University Sports Fee + GST 18% 118 118 118
15 Cost of Regn. Application + GST 18% 118 118 118
16 Miscellaneous Fee 500 500 500
Total 10,473 7,473 6,973
Fees Details 2025-2026
Nursing
Paramedical Diploma & Certificate Courses 2025-2026

Fee Details 2025-2026

B.Sc. Courses

Sl. No. Fees Details Gen. SC/ST PwD
1 Tuition Fees 3000 - -
2 Special Fees 500 500 -
3 Library Fees 1000 1000  
4 Caution Deposit 1000 1000 1000
5 LIC - - -
6 N.S.S. 10 10 10
7 Y.R.C. Society 10 10 10
8 HSC Mark Sheet Verification Fee 177 177 177
9 Miscellaneous Fee 100 100 100
10 University Registration Fees 2650 2650 2650
11 Flag Day 100 100 100
12 e-Consortium Fees 600 600 600
13 University Lib. Fee + GST 18% 590 590 590
14 University Sports Fee + GST 18% 118 118 118
15 Cost of Regn. Application + GST 18% 118 118 118
16 Miscellaneous Fee 500 500 500
Total 10,473 7,473 6,973

Fees for Paramedical & AHS Courses

Fees Details 2025-2026
Nursing
Paramedical Diploma & Certificate Courses 2025-2026

Fee Details 2025–2026

B.Sc. Courses

Sl. No. Fees Details Gen. SC/ST PwD
1 Tuition Fees 3000 - -
2 Special Fees 500 500 -
3 Library Fees 1000 1000 1000
4 Caution Deposit 1000 1000 1000
5 LIC - - -
6 N.S.S. 10 10 10
7 Y.R.C. Society 10 10 10
8 HSC Mark Sheet Verification Fee 177 177 177
9 Miscellaneous Fee 100 100 100
10 University Registration Fees 2650 2650 2650
11 Flag Day 100 100 100
12 e-Consortium Fees 600 600 600
13 University Lib. Fee + GST 18% 590 590 590
14 University Sports Fee + GST 18% 118 118 118
15 Cost of Regn. Application + GST 18% 118 118 118
16 Miscellaneous Fee 500 500 500
Total 10,473 7,473 6,973

Fees for Paramedical & AHS Courses

Fees Details 2025-2026
Nursing
Paramedical Diploma & Certificate Courses 2025-2026

Fee Details 2025–2026

Paramedical Diploma Courses (2025–2026)

Sl. No. Fees Details Diploma (Rs.)
1 Tuition Fees 20,000
2 Special Fees 500
3 Library Fees 500
4 University Registration Fees 14,474
5 Caution Deposit 2,000
6 N.S.S. 10
7 Bond 50
8 Youth Red Cross 10
9 Flag Day 5
10 E-Journals 200
Total 38,249

Fees for Paramedical & AHS Courses

Nursing

SI.No. Fees Details B.Sc. / P.B.B.Sc.
Gen.(in Rupees) SC/ST(in Rupees)
1 Tuition Fees 3000 -
2 Special Fees 1000 1000
3 Library Fees 1000 1000
4 Caution Deposit 1000 1000
5 N.S.S. Fee 10 10
6 Y.R.C. Society 10 10
7 HSC Mark Sheet Verification Fee 177 177
8 Nursing Amenity Fund 3000 3000
9 Miscellaneous Fee 100 100
10 Flag Day 100 100
11 University Regn. Fee 2000 2000
12 University Lib. Fee + GST 18% 590 590
13 University Sports Fee + GST 18% 118 118
14 Cost of Regn. Application + GST 18% 118 118
15 Miscellaneous Fee 767 767
16 e-Learning + GST 18% 708 708
Total 14,406 11,406
Fees Details 2025-2026
Nursing
Paramedical Diploma & Certificate Courses 2025-2026

Nursing

SI.No. Fees Details B.Sc. / P.B.B.Sc.
Gen.(in Rupees) SC/ST(in Rupees)
1 Tuition Fees 3000 -
2 Special Fees 1000 1000
3 Library Fees 1000 1000
4 Caution Deposit 1000 1000
5 N.S.S. Fee 10 10
6 Y.R.C. Society 10 10
7 HSC Mark Sheet Verification Fee 177 177
8 Nursing Amenity Fund 3000 3000
9 Miscellaneous Fee 100 100
10 Flag Day 100 100
11 University Regn. Fee 2000 2000
12 University Lib. Fee + GST 18% 590 590
13 University Sports Fee + GST 18% 118 118
14 Cost of Regn. Application + GST 18% 118 118
15 Miscellaneous Fee 767 767
16 e-Learning + GST 18% 708 708
Total 14,406 11,406
B.Sc.Courses
Paramedical Diploma Courses

Fee Details 2025–2026

B.Sc. Courses

Sl. No. Fees Details Gen. SC/ST PwD
1 Tuition Fees 3000 - -
2 Special Fees 500 500 -
3 Library Fees 1000 1000 1000
4 Caution Deposit 1000 1000 1000
5 LIC - - -
6 N.S.S. 10 10 10
7 Y.R.C. Society 10 10 10
8 HSC Mark Sheet Verification Fee 177 177 177
9 Miscellaneous Fee 100 100 100
10 University Registration Fees 2650 2650 2650
11 Flag Day 100 100 100
12 e-Consortium Fees 600 600 600
13 University Lib. Fee + GST 18% 590 590 590
14 University Sports Fee + GST 18% 118 118 118
15 Cost of Regn. Application + GST 18% 118 118 118
16 Miscellaneous Fee 500 500 500
Total 10,473 7,473 6,973