Supervisor: Aravind N. A.

I am a field biologist dedicated to exploring and conserving India’s rich biodiversity. My work is rooted in hands-on ecological research, with experiences spanning the country’s diverse terrains—from tracking crocodiles along the Cauvery River to conducting herpetofaunal surveys in the Western Ghats and the remote forests of Northeast India. This extensive fieldwork has provided me with a strong foundation in conservation science. As a part of my doctoral research, I am turning my focus to the subterranean ecosystems of Meghalaya, one of India’s most significant yet understudied karst landscapes. My project, “The Karst Kingdoms of Meghalaya,” investigates the hidden world of cave invertebrates. By applying modern molecular techniques, I aim to create the first comprehensive biodiversity baseline for these fragile habitats, a critical step for their future protection.