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The Pre Synopsis seminar in respect of Ms. Soumya Balakrishnan., Full time research Scholar (Reg. No: 5750) under the guidance of Prof. I.S. Bright SIngh and Dr. Jayesh Puthumana has been scheduled to be held at 03.00 pm on 28-11-2024 in the DBT-Bioinformatics Hall, NCAAH, 4th Floor, New Admin Block, CUSAT Lakeside Campus, Kochi-16.
Title of the Thesis: “Development and optimization of cell culture systems from the bivalve, Magallana bilineata with applications in aquatic toxicology and transgene expression”
All are cordially invited.
The Pre Synopsis seminar in respect of Ms. Saranya M., Full time research Scholar (Reg. No: 5579) under the guidance of Prof. Valsamma Joseph has been scheduled to be held at 02.00pm on 04-10-2024 in the DBT-Bioinformatics Hall, NCAAH, 4th Floor, New Admin Block, CUSAT Lakeside Campus, Kochi-16.
Title of the Thesis: “Marine Leptolyngbya sp. MACC 32 based quorum quenching on Vibrio harveyi for application in shrimp culture systems”
All are cordially invited.
The Open Defense and Viva Voce in respect of Ms. Diya Dominic D V, Full time research Scholar under the guidance of Prof. I. S. Bright Singh and Dr. Valsamma Joseph, has been scheduled to be held at 11.00am on 03-10-2024 in the DBT-Bioinformatics Hall, NCAAH, 4th Floor, New Admin Block, CUSAT Lakeside Campus, Kochi-16.
Title of the Thesis: “In vitro propagation, cytopathogenicity and replication kinetics of Shrimp Parvovirus (PstDV1/IHHNV) and Nodavirus (PmNV/MBV) and their application for selection of antiviral Phytochemical formulations”
All are cordially invited
The Pre Synopsis seminar in respect of Mr. Linu Balan, Full time research Scholar (Reg. No: 4955) under the guidance of Prof. I. S. Bright Singh has been scheduled to be held at 02.30pm on 19-09-2024 in the DBT-Bioinformatics Hall, NCAAH, 4th Floor, New Admin Block, CUSAT Lakeside Campus, Kochi-16.
Title of the Thesis: “Polyhydroxyalkanoates from Marine Microorganisms for Aquaculture applications”
All are cordially invited
Prof. Pawan K. Dhar, Chief Executive Officer of CVJ Centre for Synthetic Biology and Biomanufacturing is visiting the Centre on 13th August 2024. All the Researchers and Students of the Centre are invited to attend a talk by Prof. Pawan K. Dhar at 10.30 AM in the DBT- Bioinformatics Centre.
Applications are invited from GAT-B 2024 qualified students for the second round of admission to M.Tech Marine Biotechnology programme, sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India and offered by Cochin University of Science and Technology a National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, for the Academic Year 2024-2026 to fill up the vacant seats
Number of Vacant Seats for Different Categories:
Unreserved: 2, SC:1, ST: 2, DA: 1
The list of students admitted to the M.Tech Marine Biotechnology programme 2024-2026 during first round of admission.
The opening ceremony of Technician Training Programme – Aquatic Animal Health Lab Supervisor (AGR/Q4911) by Agriculture Sector Council of India, under DBT- Skill Vigyan-State Partnership Programme in collaboration with Kerala Biotechnology Commission, Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment is scheduled on 1st July 2024 at 3.30PM in the DBT- Bioinformatics Centre Hall, in the 4th Floor of the New Academic Block in the Lakeside Campus of the University. Prof. P.G. Sankaran, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest of the function.
We cordially invite you to join us for this momentous occasion.
The Viva Voce and Open Defence in respect of Ms. Ahna Ameer, Full time research Scholar under the guidance of Prof. I. S. Bright Singh, Emeritus Professor, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health has been scheduled to be held at 11.30am on 14-06-2023 in hybrid mode at the DBT-Bioinformatics Hall, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, 4th floor, New Academic Block, CUSAT Lakeside Campus, Kochi 682016.
Title of the Thesis: Development of plant-derived formulations in the management of White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV), Penaeus stylirostris penstyldensovirus 1 (PstDVI) / IHHNV, Penaeus monodon nudi virus (PmNV) / MBV and Vibrio in shrimp culture
All are cordially invited
Google Meet Link: meet.google.com/wnm-gtoy-bhs
Honouring the NK-PDF 2023 awardees from CUSAT
We are delighted to share a moment of immense pride and joy, as we announce that twelve of our distinguished scholars have been honoured with the prestigious Chief Minister’s Navakerala Post Doctoral Fellowships 2023. Their exceptional contributions to their respective fields have brought laurels to our institution and the entire academic community.
In recognition of their outstanding achievements, the University is organizing a special ceremony to honour these accomplished scholars on 8th September 2023, Friday, 2.30 pm at the Mini Conference Hall of CUSAT Seminar Complex.
We cordially invite you to join us for this momentous occasion.
Honouring the NK-PDF 2023 awardees from CUSAT
As part of the Skill Development Programme sponsored by the CUSATECH Foundation under RUSA, a Certificate Course in Aquatic Animal Health Management was offered at the Centre during January to July 2023, aimed at generating Aquatic Animal Health Managers at grass root level.
In this connection, a closing ceremony of the Course is organized at the Centre in the Fourth Floor of the New Academic Block on 31/7/2023 at 11.00AM. Prof. K.N. Madhusoodanan, Former Vice Chancellor of the University has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest of the function.
All are cordially invited.
Admission for M. Tech Marine Biotechnology Programme for 2023-25 batch is open. The prospective candidates may go through the guidelines for the Candidates and fill up the application form.
Candidates applied earlier need not apply again.
Merit List and Waitlist for admission to M.Tech Marine Biotechnology Programme 2023-25 is now published.
View here
The Pre Synopsis seminar in respect of Ms. Merlin T. S., Full time research Scholar (Reg. No: 5051) under the guidance of Dr. Sajeevan T. P. has been scheduled to be held at 11.30am on 21-06-2023 in the Auditorium, School of Environmental Studies, Kalamassery, CUSAT.
Title of the Thesis: “Genomic insights into symbiosis and host adaptation of marine invertebrate-associated bacteria and their Bioprospecting potential”
All are cordially invited
The Viva Voce and Open Defence in respect of Ms. Krishna Priya R S, Full time research Scholar (Reg. No: 5128) under the guidance of Dr. T. P. Sajeevan, Associate Professor, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health has been scheduled to be held at 10.30am on 09-06-2023 in the Seminar Hall, School of Environmental Studies, CUSAT.
Title of the Thesis: Molecular Cloning, Characterization and Expression of a few Immune genes of the Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer) in response to the experimental betanodavirus infection
All are cordially invited
The Pre Synopsis seminar in respect of Ms. Diya Dominic D.V., Full time research Scholar (Reg. No: 6198) under the guidance of Prof. I.S Bright Singh, University Emeritus Professor, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health and joint guidance of Prof. Valsamma Joseph, Professor, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health has been scheduled to be held at 2.30pm on 22-05-2023 in the DBT- Bioinformatics Centre Hall, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Heath, 4th Floor, New Academic Block, Lakeside Campus, CUSAT.
Title of the Thesis: In vitro propagation, cytopathogenicity and replication kinetics of shrimp parvovirus (PstDV1/IHHNV) and nudivirus (PmNV/MBV) and their application for the selection of antiviral phytochemical formulations
All are cordially invited
Prof. K.N. Madhusoodanan, Vice Chancellor inaugurated the Next Generation Sequencing Facility and DBT- Bioinformatics Centre facilities in a brief opening ceremony organized on 18th April, 2023 at 10.0AM in the Bioinformatics Centre hall in the 4th Floor of the New Academic Block.
Inauguration of Next Generation Sequencing Facility by Vice Chancellor Prof. K.N. Madhusoodhanan at NCAAH
Visiting NGS Facility
Vice Chancellor Prof. KN Madhusoodhanan Inaugurating DBT-Bioinformatics Centre
Prof. Valsamma Joseph addressing the gathering
Inaugural address by the Vice Chancellor Prof. KN Madhusoodhanan
Prof. I. S. Bright Singh presenting memento to the Vice Chancellor
Vice Chancellor visiting new Laboratory Facilities of NCAAH
Graduate Aptitude Test- Biotechnology (GAT-B)/ Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) is a National Level Entrance Examination for admission to Department of Biotechnology supported Post Graduate Programme in Biotechnology and allied areas in participating Institutions (GAT-B)
Applicants desirous of appearing in GAT–B 2023 may register online only via online application form hosted at https://dbt.nta.ac.in / https://www.nta.ac.in . Applicants are advised to read complete details regarding GAT–B 2023 provided in the Information Bulletin hosted at https://dbt.nta.ac.in / https://www.nta.ac.in/ before applying. Online Registration and Submission of duly Completed Application Form for GAT–B 2023 is scheduled from 10th March 2023 to 31st March 2023 (upto 5PM). A non–refundable and non–transferable application fee of Rs.1200/– is payable online for General (UR) /OBC–NCL /EWS and Rs. 600/– by SC/ ST/ PwD social category applicants. Templates and Formats of all Certificates and supporting documents required for applying to Graduate Aptitude Test–Biotechnology (GAT–B) 2023 are provided at https://dbt.nta.ac.in / https://www.nta.ac.in/ for download and enclosure while applying.
National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, Cochin University of Science and Technology invites applications for the Computational Biology and Bioinformatics training programme for PG/PhD/PDF/Faculty candidates from life science backgrounds, organized by the DBT-Bioinformatics Centre for the year 2022-23. Training will be via online mode. Training dates and detailed schedules will be intimated to the eligible candidates. There is no registration fee. Interested candidates can apply through the registration link https://forms.gle/X4Jd8FZK2D2hq5hD6 on or before 2nd March 2023. For more details contact Director and Coordinator, DBT- Bioinformatics Centre, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Lakeside Campus, Fine Arts Avenue, Cochin – 682016 or through e-mail to valsamma@cusat.ac.in
(9846047433).
As part of the Chancellor’s Chair Programme organized by the Department of Biotechnology, Prof. Goerge Iwama, Adjunct Professor, University of British Columbia, Canada visited the Centre on 23/2/2023 for academic interactions and delivered a lecture on ‘Stress physiology with a focus on fish’ at 11.00AM in the Bioinformatics Centre hall, in the 4th Floor of the New Academic Block. This was followed by academic interactions with the students and researchers on research topics of his expertise as well the higher education opportunities in Canada.
Our Centre is arranging a stall in connection with the ‘Sasthrayaan’ programme organized by Cochin University of Science and Technology to disseminate our academic and scientific achievements of social relevance to the public and students. The stall is arranged at the Seminar Complex in the University main campus on 23rd, 24th and 25th January 2023. Visit: https://sasthrayaan.cusat.ac.in/index.html
It is with profound grief that we report the sad demise of Prof. Ambat Mohandas, Former Director, School of Environmental Studies, Former Dean, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Former Syndicate Member, CUSAT and Professor Emeritus and Chairman, Advisory Board, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, Cochin University of Science and Technology, who contributed greatly to the growth of the Institutions, wherever he served. He passed away at Bangalore on 22.01.2023 at 12.10PM.
We join his family, friends, colleagues and students in paying respectful tribute to him.
A get-together of all NCAAH family members was organized on 18-1-2023 at 11.0AM in the 4th Floor of the New Academic Block to commemorate the 23rd foundation day of the Centre.
The Open Defence and Viva -Voce examination of the Ph.D. Thesis entitled “Development of Marine Polysaccharide based nanoparticles for targeted delivery of the anti-cancer drug Cytarabine” in respect of Ms. Deepa G. (Reg. No.: 5052), Full Time Research Scholar, under the guidance of Dr. Sajeevan T. P. Associate Professor, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, CUSAT is scheduled to be held at 10.30 am on on 16-01-23 in the Seminar Hall, School of Environmental Studies, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi-2022.
All are cordially Invited to participate in the Open Defence.
National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, is organizing a training programme for MPEDA Officials on Health Certification of Ornamental Fishes from 09-13 January, 2023.
National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, is organizing a certificate Course in Aquatic Animal Health Management having 6 month duration sponsored by RUSA.
ELIGIBILITY: Bachelor’s in Fishery Science or Aquaculture/Zoology
DURATION: 6 months
Applications are invited for the following post from qualified candidates to fill up vacant positions in a DBT funded research project entitled “Bioprospecting of Marine microbial diversity for various products under the Marine Bioresource and Biotechnology Network Programme” implemented at National Center for Aquatic Animal Health, Cochin University of Science and Technology.
Designation : Junior Research Fellow
Emoluments : Rs. 31, 000/- fixed per month + 16% HRA
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Essential:
- M.Sc. in Marine Biology /Microbiology/Biochemistry or M.Tech in Marine Biotechnology
- CSIR-UGC- NET or GATE qualification
- Desirable: Research experience in marine bioprospecting and natural products isolation
Interested candidates can apply in plain paper with copies of all relevant certificates with the latest resume to reach Dr.T.P.Sajeevan, Principal Investigator, National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Lakeside Campus, Fine Arts Avenue, Cochin- 682016 on or before 30th November 2022 or send the applications as a single PDF file to sajeev@cusat.ac.in. Short listed candidates will be called for interview. No TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview. The positions are purely temporary and co-terminus with the DBT project.
NCAAH organizes an Aquaculture Technician Training Programme in Aquaculture and Aquatic Animal Health Management (Level-1) sponsored by ICICI Foundation as part of the extension services of the Centre during 14th to 18th November, 2022.
Dr. Sajeevan T. P. joins as Visiting Researcher at Centre for Marine Science, University of North Carolina Wilmington, USA under the RUSA 2.0 Faculty Exchange programme.
Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) has improved its NAAC rating has been reaccredited with A+ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). The university has improved its score to 3.39 out of 4. The NAAC peer team had visited the University during 12-14th October, 2022.
Dr. Santhini Pulickal Veetil joined NCAAH as DBT-Ramalingaswami faculty fellow. Her research focuses on1) isolation, characterization and total synthesis ofmarine natural products, especially isolated from unique marine environments for biomedical applications 2) medicinal and heterocyclic chemistry 3) Green and Sustainable organic synthesis.
Mr. MD Umar was selected for KOPRI2022 Arctic fellowship programme hosted by Korean Polar Research Institute (KOPRI) Incheon, South Korea. He will be participating in a 3 month research programme on Molecular Ecophysiology of Arctic Microbes with special focus on the novel genus Roseitranquillus sediminis MCCB386 at KOPRI, Incheon.
Ms. Ajitha V. succesfully defended her thesis on 24th August 2022 at School of Environmental Studies, CUSAT
NCAAH, CUSAT received a major project under Performance Linked Encouragement for Academic Studies and Endeavour (PLEASE) programme of Kerala State Council for Higher Education (KSCHE). The Centre will receive around 3.75 crore rupees and Dr P Jayesh and Dr T P Sajeevan will lead the project.
Dr. Jeswin Joseph, Dr. Manomi S. and Dr. Seena Jose received the Debut Chief Minister’s Nava Kerala Post Doctoral Fellowship.
Dr. Jeswin Joseph receiving the Chief Minister’s Nava Kerala Post Doctoral Fellowship Award
Dr. Seena Jose receiving the Chief Minister’s Nava Kerala Post Doctoral Fellowship Award
Dr. Manomi S. receiving the Chief Minister’s Nava Kerala Post Doctoral Fellowship Award
Dr. K. S. Prasanna, is a dedicated academic and researcher contributing to the intersection of veterinary pathology and aquaculture. Her work focuses on understanding and managing diseases in aquatic species, with a goal to enhance the health and sustainability of aquaculture systems.
Dr. Basdeo Kushwaha, Principal Scientist and In-Charge of the National Repository of Fish Cell Lines (NRFC) at ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR), Lucknow, is a renowned expert in fish cell culture, aquatic animal health, and biotechnology. His pioneering work in developing and maintaining fish cell lines has greatly contributed to the study of aquatic animal diseases, toxicology, and fish genetics, playing a vital role in the sustainable development of aquaculture.
Dr. Preena P.G., Senior Lecturer at the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), Kochi, is a dedicated researcher and academic specializing in aquatic animal health and sustainable aquaculture practices. With extensive expertise in fish immunology, disease management, and microbiology, Dr. Preena has made significant contributions to advancing health management strategies for aquaculture species, particularly in addressing the challenges of emerging pathogens.
Dr. T. V. Anilkumar, Scientist G and Head of the Division of Experimental Pathology at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, is a distinguished researcher known for his interdisciplinary contributions. With expertise in biomaterials, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine, Dr. Anilkumar’s work has extended to developing sustainable solutions for aquaculture, particularly in the areas of health management and biomaterials for aquatic applications.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad Khan, a Professor in the Department of Zoology at the University of Kashmir, is a prominent researcher in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. With a strong focus on aquatic biodiversity, fish health, and sustainable aquaculture practices, he has made significant contributions to the development of aquaculture in the Himalayan and sub-Himalayan regions. His work emphasizes the sustainable management of aquatic resources and the conservation of endemic fish species while enhancing the productivity of aquaculture systems.
Dr. Subhendu Kumar Otta, Principal Scientist at the ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA), is a distinguished expert in aquatic animal health and aquaculture biotechnology. With extensive experience in disease diagnosis, pathogen characterization, and health management, he has made significant contributions to enhancing the sustainability and resilience of aquaculture systems, particularly in brackishwater environments.
Prof. Felix Sugantham is a distinguished academic and researcher known for his significant contributions to aquaculture and fisheries science. With expertise in aquaculture management, aquatic animal health, and sustainable farming practices, he has been a driving force in advancing aquaculture technologies and practices that support productivity and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Thitiwan Patanasatienkul, is a distinguished expert in aquatic animal health, with significant contributions to global aquaculture. Her work focuses on advancing health management practices, disease prevention, and biosecurity in aquaculture systems to support sustainable production and trade in aquatic products.
Dr. P. Jayagopal, Deputy Director at the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), is a respected figure in aquaculture and seafood export development. With extensive experience in aquaculture management and policy implementation, he has made significant contributions to promoting sustainable aquaculture practices and enhancing India’s seafood export potential. His expertise spans areas such as aquaculture certification, disease management, and capacity building for stakeholders in the aquaculture value chain.
Dr. Vasant Kripa is the former Member Secretary of the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) in Chennai, India, and a highly respected scientist in marine biology, coastal aquaculture, and environmental management. With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. Kripa has been instrumental in developing policies and practices that promote sustainable and responsible coastal aquaculture in India. Her work has focused on balancing the growth of aquaculture with environmental conservation, ensuring that coastal ecosystems remain resilient and productive.
Dr. Sumithra T.G., Scientist at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI), is an expert in microbiology with over a decade of experience, specializing in fish health and marine pathogen research. Since 2016, she has focused on characterizing pathogens and developing aquatic health management strategies to enhance mariculture production. Her work includes detailed profiling of bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogens causing mortalities in cultured marine fishes, contributing valuable insights to the aquaculture sector through publications in peer-reviewed international journals.
Dr. Rohana Subasinghe is the Managing Director of FutureFish, a consultancy specializing in sustainable aquaculture and fisheries development. With over 30 years of experience in aquaculture, aquatic animal health, and international fisheries, Dr. Subasinghe is a globally recognized expert dedicated to promoting sustainable practices that support food security, environmental protection, and socioeconomic growth.
Padma Shri Dr. Modadugu Vijay Gupta is a globally renowned scientist celebrated for his transformative contributions to aquaculture and rural development. Often referred to as the “Father of Blue Revolution,” his pioneering work has revolutionized aquaculture practices, particularly in developing countries, by making fish farming accessible to resource-poor farmers. Dr. Gupta’s innovations in low-cost aquaculture technologies have significantly enhanced food security, nutrition, and livelihoods for millions.
Dr. Subhashini C.R., Director of Aristogene Biosciences, is a prominent figure in the field of biotechnology with significant contributions to aquaculture health management. With expertise in molecular diagnostics and aquatic disease research, she has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions to address health challenges in aquaculture systems. Her work focuses on creating advanced diagnostic tools and health management products that enhance the sustainability and productivity of the aquaculture industry.
Dr. Pawan Dhar, is a renowned expert in synthetic biology and systems biology, with emerging contributions to aquaculture biotechnology. With a diverse scientific background, Dr. Dhar’s work emphasizes leveraging synthetic biology to address challenges in sustainable aquaculture and aquatic resource management.
Dr. A. Gopalakrishnan, is a distinguished scientist whose contributions have significantly advanced marine fisheries and aquaculture research in India. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Gopalakrishnan played a pivotal role in promoting sustainable marine resource management, species diversification, and the development of mariculture technologies. Under his leadership, ICAR-CMFRI made remarkable strides in areas such as open-sea cage farming, marine biodiversity conservation, and stock enhancement programs.
Dr. S. R. Krupesha Sharma, a Principal Scientist at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI), is a distinguished expert in marine aquaculture and sustainable mariculture practices. With extensive experience in developing innovative technologies and farming systems, his work has significantly advanced India’s marine aquaculture sector, particularly in the production of high-value species. Dr. Sharma specializes in seed production, grow-out culture, and the development of sustainable farming methods for finfish, shellfish, and seaweed, contributing to enhanced productivity and profitability for coastal communities.
Dr. P.K. Patil, Principal Scientist in the Aquatic Animal Health and Environment Division at the ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA), is a leading expert in aquatic animal health and disease management. His work has significantly contributed to the sustainability and productivity of brackishwater aquaculture in India, focusing on health management strategies for farmed shrimp and fish species. Dr. Patil’s research addresses critical challenges such as disease outbreaks, biosecurity, and the environmental impact of aquaculture practices.
Dr. Prem Kumar, a Senior Scientist in the Finfish Culture Division at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), is recognized for his contributions to finfish aquaculture and sustainable fish farming practices. His research focuses on advancing breeding, seed production, and grow-out techniques for economically important finfish species, essential for enhancing fish farming efficiency and profitability. Dr. Kumar has been instrumental in developing improved methods for breeding and rearing native fish species, supporting biodiversity conservation while boosting aquaculture productivity in India.
Dr. David Verner-Jeffreys is a Senior Scientist at WorldFish and an esteemed expert in aquatic animal health and aquaculture biosecurity. With a background in fish pathology and disease management, Dr. Verner-Jeffreys has dedicated his career to developing solutions that enhance disease prevention and sustainable health practices in aquaculture systems globally. His research focuses on combating infectious diseases that impact fish farming, particularly in developing countries, where aquaculture plays a crucial role in food security and livelihoods.
Dr. M. Shashi Shekhar, is a distinguished expert in aquatic animal health and environmental management in brackishwater aquaculture. With extensive experience in fish and shrimp health management, his work addresses critical challenges in disease prevention, environmental sustainability, and biosecurity, contributing to the growth and resilience of India’s brackishwater aquaculture sector. By emphasizing biosecurity, environmental monitoring, and eco-friendly health management practices, Dr. Shekhar has contributed to enhancing the resilience and sustainability of shrimp and fish farming.
Dr. K.V. Rajendran is a prominent aquaculture scientist at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE) in India, recognized for his expertise in fish health management and aquatic animal disease control. With a focus on advancing disease diagnostics, biosecurity, and sustainable health practices in aquaculture, Dr. Rajendran’s work has greatly contributed to improving the resilience and productivity of India’s aquaculture sector. His research addresses major challenges related to fish and shellfish health, particularly in diagnosing and managing viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases that impact farmed species.
Dr. T. Raja Swaminathan is a renowned scientist at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) in Kochi, India, with expertise in fish health management, aquaculture biosecurity, and disease diagnostics. His work focuses on addressing challenges related to aquatic animal health, particularly in ensuring sustainable and safe practices in India’s aquaculture industry. Dr. Swaminathan is recognized for his contributions to the detection and control of fish and shellfish diseases, which are critical for enhancing productivity and reducing economic losses in aquaculture.
Dr. Neeraj Sood, a distinguished scientist at the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR) in India, is recognized for his work in fish genetics, conservation, and sustainable aquaculture practices. His research focuses on the genetic characterization and conservation of fish biodiversity, which is critical for protecting valuable genetic resources and promoting sustainable aquaculture. By identifying and cataloging fish species and their genetic diversity, Dr. Sood has contributed to the preservation of native fish species, ensuring that these resources can support resilient and productive aquaculture systems in India.
Dr. B. Santhosh, a leading scientist at the Vizhinjam Regional Centre of the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI), is known for his impactful contributions to marine aquaculture and coastal fisheries development in India. His work focuses on advancing sustainable practices in mariculture, particularly in seed production, hatchery technology, and the cultivation of high-value marine species like finfish, shellfish, and sea cucumbers. Dr. Santhosh’s research has played a critical role in supporting livelihood opportunities for coastal communities by promoting aquaculture as a viable and environmentally sustainable industry.
Dr. Victoria Alday-Sanz is a renowned aquaculture expert at National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA) in Saudi Arabia, recognized globally for her work in shrimp health management, biosecurity, and sustainable aquaculture practices. With a background in veterinary science and extensive experience in aquatic animal health, Dr. Alday-Sanz has played a critical role in advancing shrimp farming practices to enhance productivity while maintaining rigorous biosecurity standards. Her work is instrumental in addressing major health challenges in shrimp aquaculture, particularly in the prevention and management of viral and bacterial diseases that can impact large-scale operations.
J.M.P.K. Jayasinghe is a distinguished figure in aquaculture, known for his contributions to sustainable fish farming practices, particularly in Asia. With a focus on innovative aquaculture technologies and resource management, he has dedicated his career to improving the productivity, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of aquaculture systems. Jayasinghe has been involved in developing best practices that help small-scale and commercial farmers enhance yields while minimizing the environmental impact, which is crucial for both economic growth and ecological health.
Dr. K.M. Shankar is the Vice Chairman of the Asian Fisheries Society, Indian Branch, and former Dean of the College of Fisheries in Mangalore, India. A highly respected figure in fish health management and aquaculture, Dr. Shankar has contributed significantly to advancing aquaculture science, particularly in aquatic animal health, biotechnology, and sustainable fisheries. His research focuses on pathogen detection, disease management, and biosecurity in aquaculture, addressing key challenges to improve productivity and sustainability in the industry.
Prof. Arun K. Dhar is a Professor and Director of the Aquaculture Pathology Laboratory at the School of Animal & Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The University of Arizona, USA. An expert in aquaculture pathology and virology, Prof. Dhar is highly regarded for his research on diseases affecting shrimp and other aquatic species. His work focuses on identifying, understanding, and managing viral pathogens that pose significant threats to aquaculture industries globally.
Dr. Iddya Karunasagar is a distinguished Indian microbiologist and food safety expert, known for his pioneering work in aquatic microbiology, aquaculture health, and public health. His research focuses on seafood safety and disease management in aquaculture, with significant contributions to understanding and controlling microbial pathogens, such as Vibrio species, which affect marine organisms. His work has helped develop diagnostic tools and strategies that promote sustainability in aquaculture and ensure safer seafood.
Dr. Pramoda Kumar Sahoo is the Director-cum-ICAR National Professor at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA). A leading expert in fish health management and aquatic animal diseases, Dr. Sahoo’s work focuses on advancing disease control, immunology, and molecular biology in freshwater aquaculture. His research is pivotal in improving the health, resilience, and sustainability of India’s aquaculture industry, which plays a vital role in food security and rural livelihoods.
Dr. Eduardo Leano is the Director General of the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific (NACA), an intergovernmental organization focused on sustainable aquaculture development in the Asia-Pacific region. With a strong background in aquatic animal health and pathology, Dr. Leano has dedicated his career to advancing sustainable aquaculture practices, improving disease management, and promoting biosecurity within the industry.