01
Academic status
- M.Phil graduates
- 912
- M.Phil enrolled
- 99
- Ph.D graduates
- 281
- Ph.D enrolled
- 117
About CEMB
Pakistan’s premier centre for molecular biology research.
The Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, is one of Pakistan’s leading institutes for research, education and innovation — advancing human health, agriculture and biotechnology since 1985.
1985Established
11+Research Laboratories
1,371Research Publications
281Ph.D Produced
912M.Phil Produced
52Patents
3,266.68Impact FactorCEMB in numbers
An institutional record built over four decades.
Reported cumulative information from 1986 through 16 July 2026.
02
Projects awarded, 2022–2026
102projects awarded
- HEC, non-HEC & other
- 37
- University of the Punjab
- 61
- UDRG, University of the Punjab
- 4
03
Research output
- Publications
- 1,371
- Cumulative impact factor
- 3,266.68
- Books
- 20
- Book chapters
- 60
04
Scientific engagement
- Conferences, seminars & training workshops
- 220
- Scientists reached
- 1,600+
05
Innovation & partnerships
- Total patents
- 52
- Patents awarded
- 14
- Patents submitted
- 36
- MoUs
- 53
- Agreements
- 53
06
Faculty composition
- Professors, including Director
- 6
- Associate Professors
- 11
- Assistant Professors
- 18
Institutional information supplied for the CEMB website, updated 11 September 2026.
Our story
Four decades of discovery.
From two student laboratories to a connected research campus, CEMB’s journey has been shaped by scientific ambition and national need.
-
1979
A shared vision
Prof. Ahmed Iqbal Bukhari of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratories and Prof. Dr. Sheikh Riazuddin held the founding discussions that shaped CEMB’s mission.
-
1981
Centre established
On 1 November 1981, the University of the Punjab officially announced the establishment of CEMB to meet Pakistan’s growing need for advanced research in health, agriculture and biotechnology.
-
1985
First laboratories
CEMB began its journey in two student laboratories of the Department of Zoology at the Quaid-e-Azam Campus, guided by Vice Chancellor Prof. Khairat Ibne Rasa and Prof. Abdul Rauf Shakoori.
-
1987–93
A dedicated home
Construction began on the current campus near Thokar Niaz Baig; scientific staff moved into the new premises by 1992–93.
-
Today
A connected research campus
CEMB now brings together advanced laboratories, greenhouses, an animal house, the Genomics and Stem Cell Centres, a guest house and hostels on one integrated campus.
Shaped by world-class scientists. Nobel laureates and renowned scientists — including J.D. Watson, Richard J. Roberts, Larry Grossman, Tomas Lindahl and Thomas Friedman — helped shape CEMB’s early scientific vision.
Our campus
A campus designed for discovery.
The CEMB campus houses state-of-the-art research and teaching facilities, including advanced laboratories, greenhouses, an animal house, a guest house and hostels.
Old Laboratory BlockCore labs for agricultural biotechnology, forensic research, virology and infectious diseases, plus an insectary, plant-growth rooms and support facilities.
Teaching BlockA well-stocked library, lecture halls and offices for the Director, Administration and Accounts sections.
Genomics & Stem Cell CentresCutting-edge technologies supporting genetics, genomics, biopharmaceuticals, vaccinology, stem cells and regenerative medicine.
Campus amenitiesA mosque, self-service canteen, dining hall, guest house and hostels supporting visiting scholars and resident researchers.
What drives us
Our objectives.
Five commitments guide CEMB’s research, education and national contribution.
Advance scientific research
Advance knowledge in human health, crop improvement and biotechnology through cutting-edge, mission-driven research.
Build human capital
Promote higher education and capacity building through internationally aligned M.Phil and Ph.D programmes, short courses and internships.
Commercialise technology
Develop and commercialise indigenous biotechnological products, from transgenic cotton to cloned therapeutic proteins and molecular diagnostics.
Foster collaboration
Foster national and international collaborations that connect CEMB with leading institutions and researchers worldwide.
Sustain infrastructure
Provide state-of-the-art research infrastructure, maintaining modern laboratories that support excellence in research and education.
Leadership & governance
Meet CEMB’s leadership and governing bodies.
Read messages from CEMB’s founding and current leadership, and meet the boards providing institutional oversight.
01Founder’s MessageRead a message from CEMB’s Founder Director, Dr. S. Riazuddin.
02Director’s MessageThe current Director’s message on CEMB’s mission and progress.
03Board of GovernorsMeet the Board that provides institutional oversight and direction.
04Advisory BoardMeet the Advisory Board supporting CEMB’s scientific direction.
The CEMB campus
Spaces built for discovery.
A closer look at the laboratories and shared spaces behind CEMB’s research.
Connect with CEMB