Aritra Biswas

I 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.

Aarthi R

I 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 and playing sport.
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Ashika Dhimal

Being 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. 

Madhura Agashe

My childhood mostly revolved around chasing lizards and searching for snakes in the thickets around my hometown. This interest motivated me to pursue my MSc. in Biodiversity and monitoring. I joined Prof. Karanth’s lab in 2023 since I am broadly interested in Phylogenetics, Biogeography, and Macroevolution of reptiles. For my research, I will be looking at the evolution of two endemic genera of Skinks from India along with trying to understand the biogeographic processes that might have shaped their unique distribution. Apart from going on nature trails to observe the plethora of diversity around us, I like to fill my spare time with exploring new places and reading books.