Associate Professor


Research Area \ Research Statement \ Research Group Info

Our research program lies at the intersection of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), host–microbe interactions, microbial diversity, and microbial therapeutics, guided by a comprehensive One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health. We emphasize translational impact and public health relevance by addressing interconnected biological systems and global health challenges.

We investigate both bacterial and fungal systems to understand their resistance mechanisms, adaptive responses to environmental stress, and interactions with host immunity. A key dimension of our work focuses on microbial diversity and taxonomy, including the exploration of extremophiles such as psychrophiles, to uncover novel functional traits and bioactive potential from underexplored ecosystems.

At the core of our research lies the question:

How can microbial systems and host responses be strategically harnessed to develop effective, sustainable alternatives to conventional antimicrobials within a One Health framework?

To address this, we study microbial behavior under stress conditions (e.g., pH and oxidative stress), biofilm dynamics and their role in persistence and resistance, and host–pathogen–microbiome interactions across different ecological niches. We develop innovative therapeutic strategies including microbial consortia-based immunomodulatory approaches, probiotics, postbiotics, and bacteriocins, aiming to enhance host defense mechanisms while minimizing antimicrobial misuse.

Our research further explores the biological synthesis of nanoparticles using microbial systems for advanced biomedical and environmental applications. In parallel, we focus on waste valorization, transforming organic waste into value-added products through microbial processes, thereby contributing to sustainability and circular bioeconomy initiatives aligned with One Health principles.

By integrating microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, nanobiotechnology, and translational science, our work bridges fundamental research with real-world applications in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management.

The research group is a multidisciplinary team engaged in cutting-edge experimental and translational research. Our activities include developing alternative antimicrobial interventions, studying microbial adaptability and ecological function, and contributing to AMR surveillance and public health strategies under a One Health paradigm. We actively collaborate with national and international partners through programs aligned with major funding agencies such as DBT, DST etc

In addition to research, we are committed to mentoring undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, fostering the next generation of scientists in AMR, microbial diversity, nanobiotechnology, sustainable biotechnology, and One Health research.