Centre for Omic Sciences, Islamia College Peshawar

With effect from Fall 2026 session, all admissions to MS/MPhil (or equivalent) and PhD (or equivalent) programs in the Centre for Omic Sciences will be based exclusively on GRE/HAT General and relevant Subject Tests conducted through the Education Testing Council (ETC) of HEC.

The students of BS Molecular Biology visited the Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), Peshawar, and the Forensic Laboratory at KMC as part of an educational exposure visit. During the visit, the hosts provided a detailed briefing to the students and introduced them to advanced technologies and modern applications in genetics and genomics.

The visit offered students valuable insights into contemporary research activities, laboratory practices, and high-end technological facilities being utilized in molecular biology, genetics, genomics, and forensic sciences.

The students were accompanied by Dr. Muhammad Fahim, Mr. Razaullah, and Mr. Adil Salim.

Three MPhil Scholars Defend Theses on Rare Genetic Disorders at Islamia College Peshawar

The Centre for Omic Sciences, Islamia College Peshawar [Official], proudly announces the successful thesis defense of three MPhil scholars under the supervision of Dr. Musharraf Jelani (Professor of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa)

The students employed whole exome sequencing as a powerful diagnostic tool to investigate rare genetic disorders prevalent in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa population, the most frequently affected region of Pakistan.

The scholars and their research titles are:

1. Ms. Laiba Zia (MPhil Genetics, Session 2024–2026)
“Genetic analysis of autosomal recessive family with congenital adrenal hyperplasia.”
2. Ms. Muskan Saleem (MPhil Molecular Biology, Session 2024–2026)
“Genetic Analysis of S***matogenic Failure in a Pakhtun Family.”
3. Muhammad Amin (MPhil Molecular Biology, Session 2024–2026)
“Mutation Screening of the Genes Responsible for Oligos***mia in Males.”

The external examiner, Dr. Ajmal Khan, Associate Professor of Biotechnology at Bacha Khan University Charsadda, evaluated the theses. He highly appreciated the students’ rigorous work and commended Dr. Musharraf Jelani’s supervision for its significant contribution to the field of Rare Diseases Genetics and Genomics in Pakistan.

The warmest congratulations were extended to the scholars and their supervisor for their dedicated efforts in advancing genomic research for underserved genetic conditions

Dr. Muhammad Ilyas of Centre for Omic Sciences participated in the International Conference on Life Sciences for Resilient Systems and Sustainable Future (LS‑RSF 2026), held from 21–23 April 2026 at Forman Christian College, Lahore, Pakistan. The conference was organized by the Kauser Abdulla Malik School of Life Sciences and brought together leading scientists and researchers from around the world to discuss innovative solutions to pressing global challenges.
During the conference, Dr. Muhammad Ilyas presented his research work on genomics of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His presentation attracted considerable interest from participants representing diverse scientific disciplines. Renowned Pakistani scientist and Ex-Federal Minister Science and Technology Prof. Dr. Kausar Abdullah Malik appreciated Dr. Ilyas’ research contributions and presented him with a commemorative shield in recognition of his work. Prof. Malik also expressed his support for strengthening Dr. Ilyas’ research initiatives.

Proud moment!
Represented the Centre for Omic Sciences, Islamia College Peshawar, at the International Conference on the Future of Healthcare 2025 (FHCC 2025) held at OIC-COMSTECH Secretariat, Islamabad. Our Hands-on Workshop on Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Data Analysis and Bioinformatics Skills Development successfully brought genomics from ICP to the OIC platform, empowering young researchers with essential bioinformatics skills.
Thanks to team Waseem Haider and ValeedKhan

ICP’s Centre for Omic Sciences Breaks New Ground with First Genome Assembly of Endangered Plant

PESHAWAR, September 13, 2025: Islamia College Peshawar (ICP) has announced a landmark scientific achievement with the successful assembly of the first draft genome of the critically endangered Astragalus laspuriensis, a medicinally significant plant native to the Himalayas. The work was carried out at the university’s Centre for Omic Sciences, reflecting ICP’s growing role as a hub for advanced research and human capital development in the sciences.

The project was led by MPhil scholar Syed Ghayas Ali Shah from Torkhow, Chitral, under the supervision of Dr. Muhammad Fahim. It exemplifies the centre’s focus on enabling high-impact research that addresses pressing global issues, from biodiversity conservation to bioprospecting.

The research combined sophisticated genomic sequencing with advanced computational analysis, requiring expertise in bioinformatics tools such as Python, R, and next-generation sequencing data processing. The Centre for Omic Sciences provided both the technical infrastructure and the mentorship necessary to undertake such a complex effort.

Professor Dr. Ahmad ur Rahman Saljoqi, Vice Chancellor of Islamia College Peshawar, praised the achievement. "This work is a moment of pride for ICP. It validates our commitment to building a culture of research and innovation. The success of Mr. Shah under Dr. Fahim’s guidance shows how our institution supports talented young researchers in performing world-class science without leaving Pakistan."

He added, "This is more than a scientific milestone. It demonstrates the potential within our nation when the right environment, mentorship, and institutional resources are aligned. It reinforces our resolve to continue investing in research infrastructure and to establish ICP as a leader in scientific inquiry."

Dr. Fahim emphasized the institutional backing that made the project possible. "The centre was established to provide a platform where young scientists can tackle ambitious problems. This assembly is a validation of that vision. It shows that with access to advanced technology and guidance, our students can compete internationally."

The genome assembly offers a critical resource for understanding the genetic basis of the plant’s medicinal properties and adaptation to harsh environments. It also provides vital data to support conservation strategies for this endangered species.

This accomplishment positions ICP as a key contributor to global genomic research and highlights its capacity to nurture skilled scientists capable of leading future innovations.