Mendelian genetics and Darwinian evolution are closely linked with chemistry, said Padma Bhushan awardee P. Balaram.Delivering a lecture on “Evolutionary Inventions and Innovations That Drove the Rise of Chemistry, the Birth of Biology, and Determine Human History” at SRM University-AP on Friday, the senior professor from the National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bengaluru, explored the evolution of Darwin’s ideas on the origin of life. He traced the progress of life from anaerobic organisms to humans, from unicellular to multicellular forms, and emphasised the continuum connecting the physical, chemical, and biological worlds.Traversing themes from quantum mechanics and molecular biology to human evolutionary history, he highlighted the cultural, genetic, and environmental factors influencing evolution.Vice-Chancellor (I/C) Ch. Satish Kumar felicitated Prof. Balaram and urged budding scientists to draw inspiration from his academic and research journey. University Registrar R. Premkumar, Deans Ranjit Thapa and C. V. Tomy, faculty, scholars, and students attended the event.In another milestone, SRM University-AP has been conferred with the QS I‑GAUGE Diamond Rating for overall institutional excellence, recognising its achievements in teaching, research, and innovation. The university’s advanced facilities received a Platinum Rating, while key domains such as Employability, Teaching and Learning, Research, Diversity and Accessibility, and Internationalisation earned Gold Ratings. Governance and Structure were awarded a Silver Rating.“The QS I‑GAUGE evaluation highlights SRM AP’s strengths and areas for investment,” said Karthik Rajendran, Associate Dean, Office of the Dean–Quality Assurance and Rankings. Vice-Chancellor (I/C) Ch. Satish Kumar said the Diamond Rating reflects the dedication of faculty, the drive of students, and the support of the university’s leadership and stakeholders.Published - October 10, 2025 08:59 pm IST