Aritra BiswasI have completed an integrated MSc. in Biotechnology and Lifesciences from St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata. I am broadly interested in systematics, evolution and biogeography of endemic Indian fauna, and their ecology and natural history. I will be using molecular phylogenetics tools to answer questions related to these fields. I plan to focus on mygalomorph spiders for my research. My hobby is nature photography. I chase herps, birds and arthropods with my camera or indulge myself in popular science or Bengali literature when I am not working.
Ashika DhimalBeing raised in the heart of Eastern Himalayas made me appreciate the rhododendron covered mountains, a springtide treats for the langurs. These episodes excited me into the field of primates, ecology, and evolution. I am working to understand the extent and patterns of hybridization between golden langurs (Trachypithecus geei) and capped langurs (Trachypithecus pileatus) in Bhutan. Aside from chasing langurs, I actively participate in outdoor activities like trekking and growing plants.
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Aarthi RI have completed my Integrated MSc. in biotechnology from VIT University, Vellore. I have done my Masters dissertation from IISER Kolkata focusing on behaviour and cognition in Indian free ranging dogs. I am broadly interested in evolution, animal behaviour and ecology. The desire to integrate my interest on evolution and biotechnology drove me here to pursue my research at Evolving Phylo-Lab as a PhD student. For my PhD here, I plan to explore the phylogeny, biogeography and population genetics on blind snake species to address questions on evolution and ecology. Besides my work, I love to spend my time painting, writing, reading books.
Madhura AgasheMy fascination with wildlife and nature began in childhood, nurtured by countless hours watching Animal Planet and chasing snakes through the thickets of my hometown. What started as curiosity soon evolved into a deep passion for studying animals in their natural habitats, eventually leading me to pursue a PhD in ecology and evolution at the Evolving-Phylo Lab. I am broadly interested in the phylogenetics, biogeography, and macroevolution of reptiles. My research focuses on understanding the biogeographic history and diversification patterns of Hemidactylus geckos, a remarkably widespread and diverse group. Apart from research, I enjoy reading books, cooking, travelling, and obsessing over horror movies and rock music.
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Radhika DuttI did my bachelor's at Hansraj College, University of Delhi, and my master's from IIT Roorkee. I had a strong interest in molecular biology, which later led me to evolutionary studies and, eventually, to CES. I’m currently working on the phytogeography of the tropical forest pioneer sister genera Macaranga and Mallotus. When my DNA extractions play hard to get and PCRs throw tantrums, Badminton is my catharsis. I wasn't always an ecology person, but just like in epigenetics, where the environment induces the expression of certain dormant genes, I find my interest thriving towards nature and ecological studies now. My first field trip to Mudumalai Tiger Reserve had me like a kid in a candy store, and nature quietly stole my heart. Suddenly, I was closer to my subject and nature. Apart from work, I like writing poems,watching Naoya Inoue and Tai Tzu-ying play
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Navaneel SarangiHi, I’m Navaneel, originally from Kolkata, India, and currently immersed in the thrilling chaos of biogeography and subterranean evolution. I wear the hat of a PhD researcher at the Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, where I chase the grand, often-overlooked stories written in the shadows—deep inside caves, across ancient landmasses, and in the stubborn persistence of life in the dark. My current research explores how isolation, time, and underground ecosystems have sculpted the bizarre and beautiful biology of India’s cave-dwelling species, piecing together evolutionary puzzles that have been buried for millions of years. Outside the lab, I moonlight as a dedicated food hunter, always on the lookout for the next unforgettable meal, and indulging in metaphysical debates with my cat, who remains unimpressed by my academic debacles.
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