Institution builder
Established a lasting home for advanced molecular biology research.
In memoriam
A visionary who built a home for molecular biology.
Prof. Dr. S. Riazuddin
Founding Director of CEMB, pioneering scientist and mentor to generations of researchers in Pakistan and around the world.
- Sitara-i-Imtiaz
- Tamgha-i-Imtiaz
- Hilal-i-Imtiaz
His enduring legacy
From two student laboratories to a national centre of excellence.
Prof. Dr. S. Riazuddin founded and led the Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology at the University of the Punjab. Under his leadership, a modest beginning in the Zoology Department became Pakistan’s first postgraduate molecular biology teaching and research institution.
His influence reaches far beyond a single institution: through scientific leadership, international collaboration and deeply personal mentorship, he helped create a community that continues his work today.
Scientific pioneer
Helped shape the discipline and its international connections in Pakistan.
Generational mentor
Guided researchers whose work carries his vision forward.
In their words
Remembered by those who knew him.
Reflections from colleagues, mentees and collaborators across the international scientific community.
Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman
FRS, N.I., H.I., S.I., T.I.Prof. Sheikh Riazuddin was among the greatest scientists that Pakistan has been fortunate to have. He was among the founders of the field of molecular biology in Pakistan and his monumental contributions have left an everlasting impact in the field. The Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology and many other centres are testimony to his outstanding contributions. His students have carried the torch that he lighted.”
I've lost a dear friend and research collaborator. In this world, there are just a few truly great human beings who are also geniuses. Riaz is one of them. In the fullness of time, Pakistan will come to understand that it too has lost an unparalleled scientist and, in my opinion, its greatest scientist yet.”
Thomas B. Friedman, PhD
Chief, Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of HealthA friend, a colleague and an associate at Reading University (UK), PAEC, NIAB, INMOL, PU-CEMB. A human being, a born original scientist, molecular biologist. May Allah (SWT) bless his soul up above in heavens — Janat-ul-Firdous, in peace with greatest rewards. Ameen.”
Dr. Farhat Zaheer (TI), Ph.D.
Retired Chief Scientific Officer, INMOL (PAEC), LahoreHis inspiring mentorship and leadership, combined with his incredible humbleness, humility, and deep passion for the pursuit of knowledge, make him a true science hero internationally. He truly built science in Pakistan — the giant who built molecular biology science in our beloved nation, opening doors for international collaborations.”
Prof. Dr. Mazahir T. Hasan
Professor and Group Leader, Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, SpainI have a lot of sweet memories with my mentor Distinguished National Professor Dr. Sheikh Riazuddin, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic that will remain forever in my heart. Dr. Sahib was my biggest inspiration and support.”
Dr. Muhammad Ali Riaz
Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USAHe was like a father figure to many of us, including me, and a truly remarkable human being. As a great scientist and visionary leader, his impact is immeasurable. His loss is profoundly felt, and my deepest condolences extend to his family and all those touched by his greatness.”
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Dr. Hira Butt
Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA — M.Phil/Ph.D. studentI feel proud that I worked very closely with Dr. Saheb from 1986 to 1992 — first as a Personal Secretary on the ground floor of the Zoology Department, then promoted as Admin Officer. I always found him energetic, intelligent and willing to assist and guide his team. A great loss for scientists and the scientific community.”
Abdul Sattar
Former Admin Officer, CEMBArchive
Watch, read and remember.
Explore the condolence references and the professional record of Prof. Dr. S. Riazuddin.