Microbiology

Microbiology Department

The department of Microbiology was started way back in 1917 by Captain R. Knowles, Director of King Edward VII Memorial Pasteur Institute, Shillong in Pasteur Hills, Shillong. The department since then has been a pioneer in microbiological diagnostics and education in Meghalaya, serving patients across the region and it remains a leading center for infectious disease research and laboratory services.

The Department of Microbiology at Shillong Medical College is a dynamic academic and diagnostic hub committed to excellence in teaching, research, and clinical microbiology services. Our department plays a pivotal role in shaping future medical professionals with a strong foundation in infectious diseases and laboratory diagnostics.

The various sections of the department are: Bacteriology (including anaerobes), Mycology, Virology, Parasitology, Molecular Biology, Serology, Infectious Immunology, Mycobacteriology, Media Preparation, and Decontamination & Biomedical Waste Management.

Services

Diagnostic Services

Our NABL-certified microbiology department provides high-quality diagnostic support to various healthcare facilities. Services include:

Bacteriology, Mycology, Parasitology, and Virology
Serology — ELISA, ELFA, Rapid Diagnostic Kits
Mycobacteriology — Microscopy, CBNAAT, TRUENAT
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (CLSI-compliant)
Infection control surveillance and outbreak investigations
Molecular diagnostics and resistance gene detection (where applicable)

Research & Hospital Integration

Focus areas: AMR, hospital-acquired infections, zoonoses
Formulation of antibiograms and Meghalaya State Antibiotic Policy
Infection prevention protocols
Staff training and CME programs

Infrastructure

Microscopy
Automated blood culture systems
Vitek 2 Compact for microorganism identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing
Vitek-MS Prime for identification of microorganisms
Biosafety cabinets and Laminar Airflow Hoods
ELISA, ELFA and PCR platforms (Biofire FilmArray, CBNAAT, TRUENAT)
Data management systems

Collaborations & Outreach

Active partnerships with national bodies and programs such as ICMR, NABL, NACP, NVHCP, NVBDCP, NOHPPCZ, NTEP and CDC India. We participate in surveillance programs, academic conferences, and community outreach initiatives.