Debasmita Mohanty | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Ms. Debasmita Mohanty | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

ICAR-CIFRI, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Debasmita Mohanty’s academic path in the realm of biotechnology and microbiology started with a strong foundation in science. Her journey began at Sailabala Women’s College in Cuttack, Odisha, where she completed her +2 Science in 2011. She then pursued a Bachelor’s in Microbiology (Honors) from the College of Basic Science and Humanities, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, graduating in 2014 with a solid grounding in microbiology and a score of 66.8%.Her academic pursuits deepened as she joined Utkal University in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, for her Master’s in Applied Microbiology, completing it in 2016 with an impressive 79.4% score. Her master’s thesis explored the beneficial effects of Bacillus subtilis and Clostridium butyricum in Labeo rohita, a species of fish, to combat Aeromonas hydrophila infections. Her work highlighted the importance of beneficial microbes in enhancing fish immunity, a field with significant implications for aquaculture sustainability.In pursuit of advanced knowledge and research, Debasmita embarked on a Ph.D. at Fakir Mohan University, Balasore. Her doctoral research focuses on understanding antimicrobial resistance among Aeromonas spp., with a special emphasis on Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL) resistance in aquatic ecosystems. This critical work aims to address the emerging threats of antimicrobial resistance in water bodies, shedding light on the broader impact of microbial evolution on aquatic life and human health.

Professional Endeavors and Work Experience 🏢

Debasmita began her professional journey in biotechnology and research at ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Barrackpore. Her initial role as Skilled Supporting Staff in 2018 involved work on the “Determination of e-flow for non-lean and non-monsoon months in respect of Teesta Stage-IV HE Project, Sikkim.” This experience laid the groundwork for her understanding of water resource management and environmental assessments.Following this, she joined a project on “Antimicrobial Resistance in Aquaculture and Fisheries” as Young Professional II at ICAR-CIFRI from May 2018 to November 2023. Her role contributed significantly to understanding the growing issue of antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture, a sector crucial for food security. Her responsibilities included analyzing the impact of antimicrobial agents used in fish farming, investigating microbial resistance patterns, and identifying potential mitigation strategies to combat microbial resistance in aquatic environments.Currently, Debasmita serves as a Project Assistant for the National Mission for Clean Ganga at ICAR-CIFRI. Since November 2024, she has been engaged in research that aims to restore and protect the river Ganga’s ecosystem by focusing on water quality, pollutant reduction, and microbial health. Her work aligns with broader goals of promoting environmental sustainability and conserving aquatic biodiversity, showing her dedication to public welfare and sustainable practices.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌊🧪

Debasmita’s research is centered on combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) within aquaculture and water ecosystems. Her current focus on ESBL resistance among Aeromonas spp. addresses a serious challenge in the field of environmental microbiology. The findings from her studies contribute to developing guidelines on the responsible use of antimicrobials in aquaculture, aiming to safeguard both human health and ecological balance.Her studies on beneficial microbes’ role in protecting aquaculture species, such as Labeo rohita, highlight her proactive approach toward biosecurity and sustainability. She has contributed valuable insights into microbial therapies as alternative health solutions, reducing the reliance on chemical interventions and fostering healthier ecosystems.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆🌟

Throughout her academic and professional career, Debasmita has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in microbial research and environmental conservation. Her projects with ICAR-CIFRI have not only strengthened her expertise but also positioned her as an advocate for antimicrobial resistance awareness and sustainable practices in aquaculture. Although formal accolades are not detailed, her dedication and impactful work in environmental microbiology and sustainable aquaculture resonate as professional achievements.

Impact and Influence 🌍💧

Debasmita’s work in microbial resistance and sustainable aquaculture resonates with the global push toward environmental sustainability and safe food practices. Her involvement in the National Mission for Clean Ganga aligns with India’s vision for preserving natural resources, especially its critical water bodies. By understanding and mitigating antimicrobial resistance within aquatic ecosystems, Debasmita’s contributions aid in preserving biodiversity and ensuring food safety for future generations.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔬🌱

Looking ahead, Debasmita Mohanty is likely to continue making strides in environmental biotechnology, with a focus on microbial resistance and sustainable aquaculture practices. Her current research is paving the way for safer aquaculture methodologies, enhanced water management policies, and more effective strategies for combating antimicrobial resistance. She aspires to develop innovative solutions that benefit both ecosystems and communities, bridging the gap between scientific research and practical applications.In summary, Debasmita Mohanty’s journey reflects a dedication to scientific research, environmental conservation, and public welfare. Through her studies, she is shaping a legacy that will inspire future biotechnologists and environmental scientists, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient world. 🌎

Citations

A total of 137 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         137
  • h-index           14
  • i10-index        04

Notable Publications 

  • Prevalence of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases (ESBLs) Producing Aeromonas spp. Isolated from Lamellidens marginalis (Lamark, 1819) of Sewage-Fed Wetland: A Phenotypic and Genotypic Approach
    • Authors: Mohanty, D., Das, B.K., Kumari, P., Dasgupta, S., Roy, S.
    • Journal: Microorganisms
    • Year: 2024.
  • Immunomodulatory Effect of Saponin Treatment and Microbial Infections Provoking the Expression of Mx Gene in Catla (Labeo catla)
    • Authors: Panda, S.P., Soren, D., Roy, P., Sahoo, A.K., Das, B.K.
    • Journal: Aquaculture International
    • Year: 2024.
  • Bacillus subtilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae as Potential Modulators of Hemato-Biochemical Indices, Digestive Enzymes and Disease Resistance in Labeo rohita
    • Authors: Baisakhi, B., Swain, H.S., Bera, A.K., Upadhyay, A., Mohanty, D.
    • Journal: Agricultural Research
    • Year: 2024.
  • Chitosan Extracted from Portunus sanguinolentus (Three-Spot Swimming Crab) Shells: Its Physico-Chemical and Biological Potentials
    • Authors: Pradhan, J., Baisakhi, B., Das, B.K., Ananta, S., Mohanty, D.
    • Journal: Journal of Environmental Biology
    • Year: 2024.
  • Synthesis of Chitosan Nanoparticles from Tasar Silkworm, Antheraea mylitta Pupae and Its Antioxidant Efficacy and Antibacterial Activity Against Fish Pathogens
    • Authors: Baisakhi, B., Mohanty, D., Das, B.K., Jena, K., Pradhan, J.
    • Journal: Journal of Environmental Biology
    • Year: 2023.

Vinay Modgil | Medical microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Dr. Vinay Modgil | Medical microbiology | Best Researcher Award

HISP, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓📘

Dr. Vinay Modgil’s academic journey began in Himachal Pradesh, where he pursued his B.Sc. in Medical Sciences at Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Shimla, from 2006 to 2009. His strong academic foundation continued with an M.Sc. in Biotechnology from the same institution, completed between 2009 and 2011. These formative years instilled in him a solid understanding of life sciences and biotechnology, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.Following his master’s degree, Dr. Modgil’s thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology at the prestigious Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, between 2015 and 2020. His doctoral research allowed him to dive deep into the intricacies of medical microbiology, a field of growing significance, especially in the context of global health challenges like antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and infectious diseases. His academic journey demonstrates a commitment to understanding both the theoretical and practical aspects of microbiology, biotechnology, and medical sciences.

Professional Endeavors 🧑‍🔬💼

After completing his Ph.D., Dr. Modgil took on a crucial role as a Senior Researcher in the Department of Medical Microbiology at PGIMER, Chandigarh. This position, which he held from February 2021 to May 2023, marked his transition from academic research to a professional career, blending scientific inquiry with real-world applications. His research here focused on data analysis in medical microbiology, particularly surrounding infection control and antibiotic stewardship—a growing need in healthcare systems globally.In May 2023, Dr. Modgil advanced to a Senior Data Scientist role at the Society for Health Information Systems Programmes (HISP India). Here, he shifted focus to health data management, specifically within the District Health Information System (DHIS2) for the Equity AMR project. His work involves overseeing data analysis related to antimicrobial resistance, a global public health crisis. By analyzing and interpreting vast datasets—ranging from antibiotic susceptibility tests (AST) to prescription patterns—Dr. Modgil plays a pivotal role in guiding empirical therapy decisions and supporting the development of antibiotic stewardship policies.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬📊

Dr. Modgil’s research focus centers on one of the most pressing issues in global healthcare: antimicrobial resistance (AMR). As part of his role at HISP India, he is responsible for all data-related activities in the Equity AMR project, which operates across healthcare facilities in Himachal Pradesh and Bihar. His expertise in analyzing infection patterns, prescription trends, and AST data helps improve healthcare systems’ responses to AMR.In addition to data analysis, Dr. Modgil has also conducted point prevalence studies in various healthcare facilities, enhancing the understanding of infection trends. His collaborative work with microbiologists, clinicians, and hospital administrators helps to shape policy and empirical therapy, based on comprehensive data interpretations. These activities reflect his ability to not only analyze data but also to translate it into actionable insights that improve patient outcomes and public health strategies.His role in capacity building—training HISP India team members and state facilities on data analysis—further highlights his contribution to strengthening the healthcare system’s response to AMR. By improving the skills of healthcare professionals in data interpretation, he is helping build a sustainable infrastructure for continuous AMR surveillance and action.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅👏

While Dr. Modgil’s career is still relatively early, his impact is already evident in his growing body of work on AMR surveillance. His dedication to improving data analysis for AMR trends and his role in implementing data-driven policies in hospitals underscore his emerging leadership in the field of medical microbiology and data science.Although there are no specific awards listed in his resume, Dr. Modgil’s selection as Senior Data Scientist at HISP India—a role pivotal in the fight against antimicrobial resistance—reflects a recognition of his technical expertise and leadership abilities. His responsibility in guiding data analysis for such a critical public health issue speaks volumes about the trust and reliance placed in him by his peers and superiors.

Impact and Influence 🌍📈

Dr. Modgil’s influence extends beyond individual projects or datasets. His work is pivotal in shaping how health information systems approach antimicrobial resistance. By analyzing trends across various healthcare facilities and working with multiple stakeholders, including hospital administrators and policymakers, he plays a vital role in ensuring that healthcare practices align with the latest data and trends.Furthermore, his efforts in capacity building ensure that healthcare teams in both Himachal Pradesh and Bihar can effectively utilize data for decision-making. This is crucial for sustaining improvements in AMR surveillance and making the healthcare system more resilient against future challenges.

Legacy and Future Contributions 💡🚀

Looking ahead, Dr. Modgil’s contributions are likely to leave a lasting legacy in the field of health data science, particularly in the domain of AMR. His focus on integrating data analysis with clinical decision-making, combined with his hands-on approach to training and capacity building, will have a long-term impact on how healthcare systems respond to antimicrobial resistance.As he continues to refine data collection, analysis, and reporting processes in the Equity AMR project, Dr. Modgil’s work will likely lead to more effective stewardship policies and empirical treatments that can be scaled across regions. His ability to bridge the gap between data science and clinical practice positions him as a key figure in addressing one of the most significant public health threats of the 21st century.

Citations

A total of 61 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         61
  • h-index           14
  • i10-index        5

Notable Publications

  • Title: Sequence types of enteroaggregative Escherichia coli strains recovered from human, animal, and environmental sources: India
    Authors: Modgil, V., Kaur, H., Mahindroo, J., Mohan, B., Taneja, N.
    Journal: Gene Reports
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Antimicrobial resistance in food-borne pathogens at the human-animal interface: Results from a large surveillance study in India
    Authors: Mahindroo, J., Narayan, C., Modgil, V., Mohan, B., Taneja, N.
    Journal: One Health
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Genome sequence of pan drug-resistant enteroaggregative Escherichia coli belonging to ST38 clone from India, an emerging EAEC/UPEC hybrid pathotype
    Authors: Kaur, H., Singh, I., Modgil, V., Mohan, B., Taneja, N.
    Journal: Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Association of Putative Virulence Genes with HEp-2 Cell Adherence and Biofilm Production in Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Acute Diarrheal and Healthy Children, India
    Authors: Modgil, V., Kaur, H., Mohan, B., Taneja, N.
    Journal: Indian Journal of Microbiology
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Computational Guided Drug Targets Identification against Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Multi-Drug Resistant Uropathogenic Escherichia coli
    Authors: Kaur, H., Modgil, V., Chaudhary, N., Mohan, B., Taneja, N.
    Journal: Biomedicines
    Year: 2023.

Bharti Malhotra | Virology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Prof Dr. Bharti Malhotra | Virology | Best Researcher Award

SMS Medical College, Jaipur- India

Author Profile

📚Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Bharti Malhotra, born on 9th September 1962, embarked on her remarkable academic journey at the SMS Medical College, Jaipur, where she completed her M.B.B.S. in 1985. Her passion for microbiology led her to pursue an M.D. in Microbiology from the same esteemed institution, which she completed in 1992. This solid academic foundation laid the groundwork for her future contributions to medical science, particularly in the field of microbiology.

🩺Professional Endeavors

Dr. Malhotra’s career is a testament to her dedication and leadership in the field of microbiology. Over the years, she has held several key positions at SMS Medical College, Jaipur, including Additional Principal 1st SMSMC Jaipur, Senior Professor of Microbiology, and Nodal Officer for Advanced Research and TB RNTCP IRL Lab & State DHR VRDL.Her journey began as a Senior Demonstrator in 1991, and she quickly ascended through the ranks, becoming an Assistant Professor in 1993, an Associate Professor in 2003, and a Professor of Microbiology in 2012. Dr. Malhotra has also served as the Dean of Paramedical and Medicine and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Rajasthan University of Health Sciences (RUHS). These roles highlight her exceptional administrative skills and commitment to advancing medical education and research.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Malhotra’s contributions to microbiology extend beyond her administrative roles. She has been at the forefront of various research initiatives that have significantly impacted public health. As the Principal Investigator (PI) for several ongoing projects, she has been instrumental in leading efforts to enhance laboratory surveillance and control of infectious diseases.

Some of her notable research projects include:

  1. State Reference Lab VRDL: A project funded by DHR, continuing since 2015, aimed at strengthening virology research.
  2. Regional Reference Lab for Pneumococcal Meningitis: Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and ICMR, this project focuses on understanding the impact of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine rollout.
  3. NCDC Programs: Dr. Malhotra has been a key player in the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) programs, serving as the PI for projects aimed at strengthening intersectoral coordination for zoonotic disease prevention, hepatitis surveillance, and bio-risk mitigation for high-risk pathogens.

Her dedication to research is further exemplified by her role as the Site PI for the Pan India Epidemiological, Virological, and Genomic Surveillance for Human Influenza and COVID-19 through the DHR-ICMR VRDL Network, showcasing her contributions to combating pandemics.

🏆Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Bharti Malhotra’s exemplary work has not gone unnoticed. She is highly regarded in the medical community for her contributions to microbiology, particularly in the areas of tuberculosis and viral research. Her role as a State Lab Coordinator for IDSP (Integrated Disease Surveillance Program) and Regional Coordinator for One Health reflects the trust placed in her by national health agencies.In addition to her research achievements, Dr. Malhotra has also received numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions to medical science and education. Her leadership in advancing the understanding and control of infectious diseases has earned her a place among the top medical professionals in the country.

🌍Impact and Influence

Dr. Malhotra’s influence extends beyond her immediate roles and responsibilities. Through her work, she has significantly contributed to the improvement of public health infrastructure in India, particularly in the areas of tuberculosis and virology. Her leadership in various national programs has helped shape policies and practices that have had a lasting impact on public health.Her work in microbiology, particularly her focus on infectious diseases, has also inspired countless students and professionals in the medical field. As a Senior Professor and Dean, she has mentored numerous students and young professionals, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to medical science themselves.

🌟Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Bharti Malhotra continues her work at SMS Medical College, Jaipur, her legacy is already well-established. Her contributions to microbiology, infectious disease research, and public health are profound and far-reaching. She continues to lead cutting-edge research projects and play a pivotal role in national health initiatives.Looking to the future, Dr. Malhotra is poised to make even greater contributions to the field of microbiology. Her ongoing projects, particularly those focused on viral hemorrhagic fevers and genomic surveillance, are likely to yield important insights that will shape the future of infectious disease control.

Citations

A total of 905 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         905
  • h-index           67
  • i10-index        17

Notable Publications 

  • Title: A pragmatic digital health informatics-based approach for aiding clinical prioritisation and reducing backlog of care: A study in a cohort of 4022 people with diabetes
    Authors: Karalliedde, J., French, O., Burnhill, G., Thomas, S., Rajasingam, D.
    Journal: Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
    Year: 2023
  • Title: Outbreak investigation of Dengue like fever in rural area of Rajasthan
    Authors: Sharma, P., Sharma, M., Bhomia, N., Sharma, R.P., Malhotra, B.
    Journal: Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology
    Year: 2023
  • Title: Erratum: Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Odina wodier Roxb, an Indian Folk Remedy, through Inhibition of Toll-Like Receptor 4 Signaling Pathway
    Authors: Ojha, D., Mukherjee, H., Mondal, S., Samanta, A., Chattopadhyay, D.
    Journal: PLoS ONE
    Year: 2023
  • Title: Co-infection of respiratory pathogens in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients at North West India, Rajasthan
    Authors: Gautam, S., Malhotra, B., Sharma, P., Sharma, H., Parsoya, D.
    Journal: Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology
    Year: 2023.

Jaya Biswas | Infections and clinical microbiology | Editorial Board Member

Posted on by ScienceFather

Dr. Jaya Biswas - Infections and clinical microbiology - Editorial Board Member 🏆 

All India Institute Of Medical Sciences, Delhi - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

She embarked on her academic journey with a fervent passion for Infections and clinical microbiology. Graduating with distinction in microbiology from a renowned institution, she exhibited exceptional aptitude and dedication from the outset. Her early academic pursuits laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors in the field of clinical microbiology, sparking her interest in microbial infections, diagnostic microbiology, infectious diseases, and medical microbiology.

Professional Endeavors

Her professional journey in Infections and clinical microbiology has been marked by her relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. Starting her career as a research assistant in a prestigious laboratory, she quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional skills in microbiological testing, analysis, and research. Over the years, she has held various positions in clinical laboratories, academic institutions, and research organizations, honing her expertise in microbial infections, diagnostic techniques, and infectious disease management.

Contributions and Research Focus in Infections and clinical microbiology

Her research focus revolves around addressing critical challenges in Infections and clinical microbiology, with a particular emphasis on microbial infections and diagnostic microbiology. Her pioneering research endeavors aim to improve the detection, identification, and management of infectious diseases through the development of novel diagnostic tools and techniques. With a deep understanding of medical microbiology principles, she collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to explore innovative solutions for combating infectious pathogens and antibiotic resistance.

Accolades and Recognition

Her contributions to Infections and clinical microbiology have earned her widespread acclaim and recognition within the scientific community. Her research findings have been published in reputable journals and presented at international conferences, garnering accolades and awards for their significance and impact. Additionally, her dedication to advancing the field of clinical microbiology has been acknowledged through various professional honors and accolades, solidifying her reputation as a leading researcher in the field.

Impact and Influence

Her research endeavors have had a profound impact on the field of Infections and clinical microbiology, influencing diagnostic practices, treatment strategies, and public health policies. Through her innovative research and collaborative efforts, she has contributed to the understanding and management of infectious diseases, ultimately improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. Her expertise and influence extend beyond the laboratory, as she actively engages with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community stakeholders to promote awareness and implement evidence-based interventions.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her journey in Infections and clinical microbiology, her legacy as a dedicated researcher and visionary leader continues to grow. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, she strives to address pressing challenges in microbial infections, diagnostic microbiology, and infectious disease management. Through her ongoing research endeavors and mentorship of future scientists, she aims to leave a lasting impact on the field, shaping the future of clinical microbiology and advancing global health outcomes. As she navigates the evolving landscape of clinical microbiology, her vision and dedication will continue to drive meaningful contributions and transformative advancements in the field.

Notable Publications