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CALIBRE: Centre for Artificial Learning and Intelligence for Biological Research and Education

NCBS and ICTS have jointly set up a Centre for Artificial Learning and Intelligence for Biological Research and Education (CALIBRE) through a generous contribution from Mr. Vishal Gupta, founder of Reed India Consulting LLP, and Major Deepshikha Gupta.

Building on the complementary academic expertise of NCBS and ICTS in biological, computational and mathematical sciences, CALIBRE will catalyse research programs for AI for Biology and Biology for AI. Our research will provide unprecedented insights into complex systems, accelerate research pipelines toward innovative solutions for pressing global challenges, and harness lessons from biological systems to redefine AI.

A tripartite agreement was signed by Prof. LS Shashidhara (Centre Director, NCBS-TIFR), Prof. Rajesh Gopakumar (Centre Director, ICTS-TIFR), and Mr. Vishal Gupta (Founder, Reed India Consulting) on 29 October 2025.

Signing Ceremony

L to R: Prof. Rajesh Gopakumar (Centre Director, ICTS-TIFR), Mr. Vishal Gupta (Founder, Reed India Consulting), and Prof. LS Shashidhara (Centre Director, NCBS-TIFR) signing the agreement to establish CALIBRE on 29 October 2025

Group Ceremony

Agreement signing ceremony for establishing CALIBRE on 29 October 2025

MISSION

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into science has seen remarkable advances over the past decade, with the potential to revolutionize various areas of biology. While there are many accessible AI platforms available for free or at low cost, India must develop its own AI tools and platforms tailored for research and innovation. Specialized areas such as climate science, environment (ecology and biodiversity), public health, and agriculture, which are heavily influenced by the Indian context, require customized AI solutions to enhance both fundamental and applied research. Additionally, future AI architectures may be influenced by insights from neuroscience and biophysics research.

The main aims of this centre are:

  • To set up state-of-the-art infrastructure to support researchers in integrating AI into their work
  • To develop appropriate AI tools for basic, applied, and translational biology research
  • To employ neuromorphic computing, i.e., apply a brain-inspired approach, to advance AI technology
  • To provide education and training to young Indian researchers in adopting AI tools for biological research
  • To create Chair Professorship and Research Travel Fellowships in the name of:
    1. Dr Vijay Kumar Gupta
    2. Sushila Gupta
    3. HS Gupta
    4. Asha Gupta