Early Academic Pursuits

Her journey in the realm of bioorganic chemistry began with a strong academic foundation rooted in chemistry. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from Utkal University, Odisha, in 1995, where her passion for the subject ignited. This was followed by a Master's degree in Organic Chemistry from Ravenshaw University, Odisha, in 1997. Driven by a curiosity to delve deeper into the intricacies of organic synthesis, she pursued her Ph.D. at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, under the guidance of Professor Faiz Ahmed Khan, focusing on organic synthesis.

Professional Endeavors

Her professional journey has been marked by significant contributions to the field of bioorganic chemistry. Following her doctoral studies, she embarked on a research-oriented career path, beginning with prestigious fellowships and postdoctoral positions. As an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow at Freie University, Berlin, Germany, she explored natural product synthesis and antibiotics under the mentorship of Professor Hans-Ulrich Reissig. Subsequently, she continued her research endeavors as an ESPCI Postdoctoral Fellow in Paris, France, and as a Marie-Curie Fellow at the University of Cambridge, UK, delving into biomimetic synthesis and chemical biology, respectively.

Contributions and Research Focus in Bioorganic Chemistry

Her research interests encompass a broad spectrum of bioorganic chemistry, with a focus on chemical biology, medicinal chemistry, and drug discovery. Her pioneering work delves into understanding the complex interactions between organic molecules and biological systems, with the aim of developing novel therapeutic agents and diagnostic tools. By elucidating the mechanisms underlying biomolecular interactions, she aims to address critical challenges in disease pathways and contribute to the advancement of precision medicine.

Accolades and Recognition

Her exemplary contributions to bioorganic chemistry have been recognized through numerous honors, awards, and accolades. Her notable achievements include prestigious accolades such as the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize for Science and Technology in Chemical Sciences by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India, and being elected as a Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences (IASc), Bangalore. Additionally, she has been featured in various publications, including Vigyan Vidushi and Asian Scientist Magazine, for her groundbreaking research and leadership in the scientific community.

Impact and Influence

Her research has made a significant impact on the field of bioorganic chemistry, shaping scientific discourse and driving innovation in drug discovery and chemical biology. Her insights into biomolecular interactions and organic synthesis methodologies have paved the way for the development of novel therapeutic agents and diagnostic tools. Furthermore, her mentorship and advocacy for diversity and inclusion in science have inspired the next generation of researchers, fostering a collaborative and inclusive research environment.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Notable Publications

• G-Quadruplex-Binding Benzo[a]phenoxazines Down-Regulate c-KIT Expression in Human Gastric Carcinoma Cells
• Hydrotalcite catalysis in ionic liquid medium: A recyclable reaction system for heterogeneous Knoevenagel and nitroaldol condensation
• Diarylethynyl amides that recognize the parallel conformation of genomic promoter DNA G-quadruplexes
• Chemoselective reduction of aromatic nitro and azo compounds in ionic liquids using zinc and ammonium salts
• Scope of a novel three-component synthesis of highly functionalized pyridines
• A Ruthenium-Catalyzed, Novel and Facile Procedure for the Conversion of Vicinal Dihaloalkenes to α-Diketones
• Transition-Metal-Free Hydration of Nitriles Using Potassium tert-Butoxide under Anhydrous Conditions
• Guanosine-derived supramolecular hydrogels: recent developments and future opportunities
• Cell penetrating thiazole peptides inhibit c-MYC expression via site-specific targeting of c-MYC G-quadruplex
• Recent Update on Targeting c-MYC G-Quadruplexes by Small Molecules for Anticancer Therapeutics
• Synthesis of Carbazole Alkaloids by Ring‐Closing Metathesis and Ring Rearrangement–Aromatization
• Chemical regulation of DNA i‐motifs for nanobiotechnology and therapeutics