Lab Virtual MEETINGS
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06.08.2020 "Virtual lab discussion on National Education Policy - 2020"
Lab Journal Club sessions
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01.05.2025 ''The genome of the model beetle and pest Tribolium castaneum" Richards et al.(2008) -presented by Ankit Kumar
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24.04.2025 ''The dynamic history of prokaryotic phyla: discovery, diversity and division'' Pallen (2024) -presented by Swati Sharma
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17.04.2025 ''Tomato yellow leaf curl virus: No evidence for replication in the insect vector Bemisia tabaci''-Sánchez-Campos et al. (2016) - presented by K. Tingneivah Mate
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10.04.2025 "A potential network structure of symbiotic bacteria involved in carbon and nitrogen metabolism of wood-utilizing insect larvae" Miyamoto et al. (2022) - presented by Mansi Bansal
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3.04.2025 "Effects of Spotted Tentiform Leafminer and European Red Mite on Apple Leaf Function and Crop Development " Kuo et al. (2014) - presented by Shivani
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27.03.2025 ''Plant resistance against whitefly and its engineering;'' Di Li et al. (2023) - presented by Saumya Srivastava
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15.04.2025 ''Jasmonate and salicylate induce expression of herbivore cytochrome P450 genes” Li et al. (2002) - by M. Sc. Dissertation student Saraswathi P.
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20.03.2025 "Furanocoumarins and their detoxification in a tri-trophic interaction McGovern et al. (2006b) - by M. Sc. Dissertation student Saraswathi P.
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20.01.2025 "Sequestration of the plant secondary metabolite, colchicine, by the noctuid moth Polytela gloriosae (Fab.)” Sajitha et al. (2019) - Presented by M. Sc. Dissertation student Saraswathi P.
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4.04.2024 "Journal club presentations by M. Sc. Dissertation student (Mrittika Datta)
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4.04.2024 "Journal club presentations by M. Sc. student (Priyanka Barua)
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28.03.2024 "Journal club presentation by M. Sc. Dissertation student (Tamalika Dutta)
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17.02.2022 "Implication of the Bacterial Endosymbiont Rickettsia spp. in Interactions of the Whitefly Bemisia tabaci with Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus " Kliot et al. (2021) - presented by K. Tingneivah Mate
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10.02.2022 "Appropriate human intervention stimulates the development of microbial communities and soil formation at a long-term weathered bauxite residue disposal area" Ke et al. (2021) - presented by Mansi Bansal
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03.02.2022 "Poplar protease inhibitor expression differs in an herbivore specific manner" Eberl et al. (2021) - presented by Aashima Mehra
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27.01.2022 "Expanding the Menu: Are Polyphagy and Gene Family Expansions Linked across Lepidoptera?" Breeschoten et al., 2021- presented by Parul Bhardwaj
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15.07.2021 "Land application of sewage sludge: Response of soil microbial communities and potential spread of antibiotic resistance" Markowicz et al., 2021- presented by Mansi Bansal
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25.03.2021 "Journal club presentations by M. Sc. students (Ankita Dash and Manohar Bisht)"
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18.03.2021 "Journal club presentations by M. Sc. students (Ankita Dash and Manohar Bisht)"
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11.03.2021 "Journal club presentations by M. Sc. students (Ankita Dash and Manohar Bisht)"
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30.07.2020 "Updated M. Sc. dissertation presentation 2019" - by Mansi Bansal
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23.07.2020 "Fitness advantage of inter-species TYLCV recombinants induced by beneficial intra-genomic interactions rather than by specific mutations" Urbino et al., 2020 - presented by K. Tingneivah Mate
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16.07.20. "Host plant phenology, insect outbreaks and herbivore communities – The importance of timing" Ekholm et al., 2020 - presented by Aashima Mehra
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09.07.20. "Global gene expression changes induced by knockout of a protease gene cluster in Helicoverpa armigera with CRISPR/Cas9" Wang et al., 2020 - presented by Parul Bhardwaj
Supervisor:
Prof. Sudeshna Mazumdar-Leighton
Department of Botany, DU
Lab No: 15/18
Tel: 27667573-ext-419
PhD Scholars:
K. Tingneivah Mate
2018 - onwards
The economy based on horticultural produce is adversely affected by infection due to plant viruses, especially those that are vector-borne and have no R-gene mediated control strategies available. My Ph. D. research work is developing around the epidemiology of viruses infecting Carica papaya. It follows on an ongoing survey for detection and characterization of diverse Begomoviruses transmitted by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci and other viruses infecting commercial and feral plants. In our lab, virus testing of symptomatic papaya plants is first conducted serologically, using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Subsequently, molecular techniques like isolation of nucleic acids with associated downstream processes like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), cloning of viral genes and genomes, sequencing, and bio-informatics analysis are used. The overall purpose is to identify the virus species that persist in an area, as well as those that are visitors. Currently, drivers of persistent virus species infecting papaya in the region are not known. The epidemiological work is carried out with firm belief that it will contribute in helping out breeders and struggling cultivators. Along with my research I like to spend my time reading historical/sci-fi/romance/mystery novels, listening to gospel/rock/country/ballads/jazz/ music, and exploring the diverse culinary realm our country has to offer.
Mansi Bansal
2019- onwards
With the advent of metagenomics, microbiomes in environmental samples are getting ample attention. My M.Sc. dissertation work involved data analysis of microbial communities in sewage samples with a special focus on syntrophic cybernetics. A meticulous study of metagenome data in light of ecological contrasts and physiological profiles of bacterial groups helped me understand how sewage acts as an ecological umbrella and harbours unique microbes within. Through my forthcoming research endeavours, I intend to unravel more intricacies of microbiomes thriving in unique environmental niches. I find it profoundly equipping as it allows being a part of a ‘real time’ contemporary fictional page-turner and help to connect the dots to find ‘who and how’ the characters interact to make it to the end!
Saumya Srivastava
2023- onwards
Plants play a crucial role in ensuring food security and prosperity worldwide. Since, India is primarily an agrarian economy, the need to study interactions among plants, viruses and vectors becomes important. Plant-pest interactions especially those that involve insect vectors of plant viruses that cause disease with economic impact involve complex processes and a diversity of participants. Earlier, during the course of my dissertation work, interactions with my supervisor led me to develop a keen interest in plant-pest interactions. The broad theme of my PhD. thesis is to study the interactions among host plants, Begomoviruses and their whitefly vector at the molecular level. Whiteflies, are one of the major pests that wreak havoc in the agricultural fields by transmitting Begomoviruses and other viruses leading to yield loss. My work primarily revolves around the quest for knowledge on the “how” and “why” of these interactions occurring at the molecular level. Apart from studies, I am a yoga enthusiast and have interest in painting as well as photography.
Ankit Kumar
2023- onwards
I was introduced to the area of insect-plant interactions during the fourth semester of my M.Sc. in the special paper “Molecular interactions of plants with symbionts, pathogens, and pests”. Discussions with Prof. Sudeshna Mazumdar-Leighton allowed me to delve deeper into the fascinating world of insects and their adverse impact on agricultural produce. In my Ph.D. I want to investigate the population biology of a storage grain pest Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), commonly known as the “red flour beetle”. It infests a variety of host plants like wheat, rice, millets, sorghum, barley, maize and many other products. Because of its broader host range, it poses a major threat to global food supply. We will try to determine the genetic diversity of this globally distributed pest by employing suitable molecular markers. Understanding the factors involved in shaping the population architecture will help us to devise a sustainable method to control the spread of this insect. Besides research, I am an ardent gardener. I also enjoy clicking pictures of nature in my leisure time.
Shivani
2025- onwards
I have always been captivated by the way plants sustain humans and the ecological balance that support insect life. They offer shelter, food, nourishment and breeding grounds. Plants are the heart of insect ecology. During my Masters I studied botany the subject I deeply enjoyed. While I really enjoyed interaction between insects and plants, I initially struggled to connect them meaningfully. Later, I learned more about this fascinating relationship during my internship under Professor Sudeshna Mazumdar-Leighton and got myself enrolled in a PhD to gain a deeper understanding of insect-plant interaction and the ecological roles insects play. My research emphasizes leaf miners, a lepidopteran pest, interaction with Pongamia pinnata, a legume tree, a grandeur of nature. The phenomena between pests and plants have ramifications for biodiversity and forest health. Apart from research, I have deep interest in vocal music, dance along with that I am a culture vulture. I prioritize keeping active and staying fit while enjoying the experiences that challenge me, sharpen my skills, and support my growth.
Swati Sharma
2025- onwards
During my M.Sc dissertation I developed a keen interest in microbiology and became intrigued by the secret world of microorganisms and soil science. I have learned that these microscopic entities are crucial for maintaining soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and overall ecosystem health. My desire to learn more about the microbial world led me to pursue a Ph.D under the guidance of Professor Sudeshna Mazumdar-Leighton. Since microbial communities are important markers and catalysts for ecosystem recovery, I am particularly interested in the applications of metagenomics to ecological restoration. My goal is to explore associated techniques by examining the composition, diversity, and functional potential of soil microbiomes in order to understand how microbial populations react to environmental degradation. By combining ecological principles, bioinformatics, and molecular biology, some mystery behind the roles of microbes in ecological restoration may be solved. I believe that research is driven by curiosity and continuous learning. My overall hope goal is learn new insights and to develop sustainable solutions for environment conservation. Beyond my research, I enjoy reading science fiction and horror books. I like dancing, listening to music also try to make delicious food and eager to learn new computational tools. I actively participate in yoga sessions and workshops.
Priyanka Barua
2025- onwards
Plants are far from silent! They are constantly interacting with their environment—battling insects, microbes, and viruses while also living in a biotic world, through amazing, hidden molecular processes. Unlocking those hidden conversations is exactly what inspired me to pursue the science of insect-transmitted plant viruses. I started with my Bachelor’s and Master’s in Botany at the University of Delhi. But the real turning point for me was an internship under Professor Sudeshna Mazumdar-Leighton. Getting hands-on experience with plant-insect-virus interactions completely hooked me, and I knew I had to dive deeper and pursue a PhD. Today, as a PhD scholar, my research is all about a fascinating Tri-trophic relationship: plants, insect pests, and viruses, with a sprinkling of microbes. Specifically, I work with the notorious whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, and the destructive begomoviruses transmitted to crops. But the real twist is in investigating the endosymbiotic bacteria that live inside the insect. I want to know exactly how these hidden bacteria help or hinder this toxic relationship between the virus, the vector, and the host plant. If we can figure out this puzzle, it could be a game-changer for protecting our agriculture. It is a lot of intense detective work in the lab! So, when I need to step away and recharge, I love staying active. You will usually find me on the court playing badminton, going for a run, or just enjoying different sports.
Rajesh Giri
(Lab Assistant)
Since October 2005
Former PhD Scholars
Dr. Mahaswetta Saikia
Associate Professor, Department of Botany, Hansraj College, DU
Dr.Yengkhom Tunginba Singh
Professor, Department of Botany, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram
Dr. Rakesh Kumar
Officer-Sustainability,Environment & Regulatory Issues, Indian Chemical Council; Former AAO (Scientist-C) at Tocklai Tea Research Insitute, Jorhat Assam.
Dr. Usha Bhardwaj
Postdoctoral Researcher at Research Foundation CUNY (Hunter College), NY, USA.
Dr. Amit Bhardwaj
Postdoctoral fellow at Skirball institute of biomolecular medicine, NY, USA.
Dr. Pratibha Pant
Assistant Professor, University of Delhi, DU.
Dr. Prashant Pant
Assistant Professor (Permanent), Department of Botany, Mahatma Gandhi Government Arts College, Mahe, UT of Pondicherry, Mahe.
Dr. Vivek Chaudhary
Field Biologist, Delhi Development Authority
Dr. S Kashung
Assistant Professor, Department of Education, State Government of Manipur.
Dr. Pawan Kumar
Assistant Professor,
Department of Botany, Shivaji College
University of Delhi
Dr. Tabasum Akhter
Assistant Professor (Biochemistry, adhoc),
Govt. Degree College, Kulgam
Kashmir
Dr. Parul Bhardwaj
Assistant Professor (Guest),
Bhaskaracharya College of Applied Sciences, University of Delhi
Dr. Rashi Anand
