The Manipal Centre for Natural Sciences (MCNS) was started in 2011 under the Manipal Research Group (MARG). The primary aim was to nurture fundamental research in the Natural Sciences and grow into a hub of excellence within Manipal Academy of Higher Education. In 2012, the fledgling MCNS came into its own as a Centre of Excellence under Manipal Academy of Higher Education. It is one of the first dedicated “all-research” Centres to be started within a University.

   From its inception, a unique and vibrant academic program has been initiated and integrated with existing research at partner institutions in India and abroad. Building on its core strength in physics, MCNS has been expanding to other disciplines including pure mathematics, as part of an ambitious mandate.