NIVCR - Kottayam, Kerala

ICMR-NIVCR Field Station, Kottayam, Kerala

Office In Charge: Dr Vijesh Sreedhar K, Scientist F

The ICMR National Institute for Vector Control Research (ICMR-NIVCR) Field Station, Kottayam, was established in 2008 in response to the widespread chikungunya outbreak in Kerala as a collaborative initiative of ICMR-VCRC, the Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII), and the Department of Health Services, Government of Kerala. Since its establishment, the field station has evolved into an important centre for research, surveillance, and outbreak response on vector-borne diseases in Kerala and the adjoining regions of the Western Ghats.

The field station undertakes multidisciplinary research on dengue, chikungunya, malaria, leishmaniasis, Zika virus disease, and other vector-borne infections, with emphasis on understanding vector ecology, disease epidemiology, pathogen genomics, and transmission dynamics. Research activities include entomological and epidemiological investigations, genomic characterization of pathogens and vectors, development and evaluation of integrated vector management (IVM) strategies, disease outbreak investigations, and collaborative public health interventions. The station has made significant scientific contributions in vector biology, molecular epidemiology, disease surveillance, and genomic characterization of medically important vectors and pathogens.

Apart from research, the Kottayam Field Station plays an active role in supporting state disease control programmes through technical guidance, outbreak investigations, and collaborative research with government agencies, medical colleges, and universities. The station also conducts regular training and human resource development programmes for healthcare professionals, researchers, and students, contributing to strengthening public health preparedness and vector-borne disease surveillance in the region.

Staff List

Sr. No.	Name of the staff	Designation
1	Dr Vijesh Sreedhar K	Scientist F(Medical) & OIC
2	Dr Hisham Moosan	Scientist E (Medical)
3	Dr Aiswarya R S	Scientist C (Medical)
4	Mr Sujith Nath N	Scientist C
5	Mrs Jessu S Mathew	Technical Officer C
6	Mrs Sonia T	Technical Officer A
7	Mrs Amju K P	Technical Officer A
8	Mr M Sundharesan	Technical Officer A
9	Mrs Shyma V S	Senior Technician 1
10	Mr K Manojkumar	Technician 2
11	Ms Athulya P	Technician 1
12	Mr Prasad C P	Lab Assistant 2
13	Mr R Dileep Kumar	Assistant

Research Achievements

Research Activities

The ICMR-NIVCR Field Station, Kottayam, undertakes multidisciplinary research on vector- borne diseases of public health importance, with major emphasis on dengue, chikungunya, malaria, leishmaniasis, Zika virus disease, and other emerging arboviral infections. The station combines field-based investigations with molecular and epidemiological research to understand disease transmission dynamics, vector ecology, pathogen evolution, and public health risk factors.
The research programme includes entomological and epidemiological investigations, genomic characterization of pathogens and vectors, molecular surveillance, and studies on vector ecology and distribution. The station has established expertise in DNA barcoding, molecular taxonomy, genomic epidemiology, and characterization of medically important vectors and pathogens. Research also focuses on the development, implementation, and evaluation of integrated vector management (IVM) strategies and evidence-based interventions for disease prevention and control.
The field station actively contributes to outbreak investigations and collaborative public health initiatives in partnership with the Department of Health Services, medical colleges, universities, and other research institutions. In addition, it conducts training and human resource development programmes for healthcare professionals, researchers, and students, thereby strengthening vector surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, and public health preparedness in Kerala and other parts of the country.

on-going projects

On-going Projects

1. Determinants of Dengue deaths in Kerala – 3DK
2. Assessing seroprevalence and seasonal transmission patterns of West Nile virus in North Kerala, India
3. Evaluation of serotype specificity of clinical features in Dengue viral infection in the perspective of co-circulation of serotypes in a Dengue endemic area – A pilot study
4. Sero-epidemiological studies of Zika virus infection in Kerala, India

Infrastructure and Facilities:

Infrastructure (Labs)

The ICMR-NIVCR Field Station, Kottayam is equipped with modern laboratory infrastructure supporting molecular, entomological, and epidemiological research on vector- borne diseases. The facilities enable laboratory diagnostics, molecular characterization, vector surveillance, outbreak investigations, and collaborative research while maintaining appropriate biosafety standards.
The ICMR-NIVCR Field Station, Kottayam is equipped with modern laboratory infrastructure supporting molecular, entomological, and epidemiological research on vector- borne diseases. The facilities enable laboratory diagnostics, molecular characterization, vector surveillance, outbreak investigations, and collaborative research while maintaining appropriate biosafety standards.
1- Molecular Biology Laboratory for PCR-based diagnostics, real-time PCR, molecular characterization, and genomic research.
2- Entomology Laboratory for vector identification, taxonomy, surveillance, and ecological investigations.
3- Diagnostic and Immunology Laboratory supporting ELISA-based assays and routine laboratory investigations.
4- Microscopy Facilities for vector identification, parasite detection, and laboratory diagnostics.
5- Sample Processing and Storage Facilities including cold storage systems for preservation of clinical and vector specimens.
6- Laboratory Support Infrastructure for molecular workflows, sample preparation, and routine research activities.
7- Biosafety Facilities supporting safe handling and processing of infectious materials.
8- Training and Research Facilities for conducting collaborative research, workshops, and capacity-building programmes.

Photo Gallery

Group Kottayam

NIVCR Field Station Kottayam

Bsl 2 Cabinet

Entomology Lab

Molecular Biology Lab 2 1

Storage Facility

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Kottayam, Kerala