The Hazra Lab is a multidisciplinary research group dedicated to tackling one of the most urgent global health challenges of our time—antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We investigate the molecular and structural foundations of bacterial survival strategies, with a particular emphasis on enzymes that drive resistance and essential metabolic pathways. Our mission is to translate fundamental biochemical and biophysical insights into next-generation therapeutics, diagnostics, and intervention strategies.

Our research integrates state-of-the-art protein crystallography, enzyme kinetics, biophysical characterization, structure–function analysis, computational biology, molecular dynamics simulations, and virtual screening. By bridging structural enzymology with rational drug design, we explore targets such as β-lactamases, peptidoglycan-synthesis enzymes, folate-biosynthesis proteins, and other key molecular determinants of bacterial pathogenicity and drug resistance.

Professor Saugata Hazra’s laboratory forms an integral part of the Department of Biosciences & Bioengineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee. The Hazra Group’s research approach masterfully connects molecular enzymology with a broader One Health perspective, illuminating how AMR evolves, spreads, and impacts diverse ecosystems. From hospital wards to animal farms, wastewater systems, rivers, and natural environments, our work stitches together a panoramic understanding of resistance under real-world conditions. By harmonizing chemical, structural, clinical, and environmental insights, the group aims to translate molecular discoveries into tangible societal benefits, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Our long-term vision is to provide mechanistic knowledge that can inform the development of antibiotics with novel mechanisms, reduce global dependence on failing antimicrobials, and help prevent a looming “diagnose-for-death” scenario.

We welcome collaborations and highly motivated students who share our passion for mechanistic enzymology, structural biology, computational design, and translational AMR research. Explore our website to learn more about our work, publications, facilities, team members, and opportunities to join the lab.