Research

Exploring Fungal Diversity, Taxonomy and Evolution

My research focuses on understanding fungal diversity, taxonomy, and evolutionary relationships using classical and molecular approaches. I am particularly interested in documenting fungal biodiversity, investigating phylogenetic relationships, and applying DNA-based methods to fungal identification and classification.

My work brings together traditional mycology, microscopy, molecular phylogenetics, and DNA sequence analysis to better understand fungi and their diversity across different ecosystems.

Research Interests

Fungal Diversity and Taxonomy

Fungi represent one of the most diverse yet insufficiently explored groups of organisms. My research interests include discovering, identifying, describing, and classifying fungi, with particular attention to their morphological characteristics and evolutionary relationships.

I am interested in integrating traditional taxonomic methods with modern molecular techniques to improve our understanding of fungal diversity.

Molecular Phylogenetics and Systematics

Molecular phylogenetics is central to understanding evolutionary relationships among fungi. I use DNA sequence data and phylogenetic approaches to investigate fungal relationships, species boundaries, and taxonomic classification.

This work contributes to a better understanding of fungal systematics and the evolutionary history of different fungal groups.

DNA Barcoding and Molecular Identification

DNA barcoding provides valuable tools for identifying and characterising fungi, particularly when morphological features alone are insufficient.

My interests include the application of molecular markers, DNA sequence analysis, and reference databases for reliable fungal identification and biodiversity documentation.

Marine and Coastal Fungal Biodiversity

Working at the CSIR–National Institute of Oceanography provides opportunities to explore fungal diversity in marine and coastal environments.

I am interested in understanding fungi associated with marine habitats, their diversity, ecological associations, and their role in these ecosystems.

Scientific Collaboration and Capacity Building

I believe that scientific progress depends on collaboration and the sharing of knowledge.

Alongside research, I am actively interested in training students, research scholars, and early-career scientists in fungal taxonomy, DNA barcoding, molecular phylogenetics, and scientific communication.

Through workshops, training programmes, and academic collaborations, I aim to make modern approaches in mycology more accessible to researchers.

Research Philosophy

I believe that understanding fungal biodiversity requires a combination of careful observation, sound taxonomy, reliable molecular data, and critical scientific interpretation.

My approach emphasises the importance of integrating classical mycology with modern analytical tools while encouraging open scientific discussion, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Interested in Collaboration?

I welcome academic interactions and potential collaborations in fungal biodiversity, taxonomy, molecular phylogenetics, DNA barcoding, and related areas of mycology.