In a proud moment for Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Dr. Sudeshna Thakur, a distinguished alumna from the Department of Entomology, has brought laurels to the institution by securing the esteemed BioCARe research project. This remarkable feat underscores the excellence and caliber of both the researcher and the institution.
The project, valued at Rs 50 lakh, is slated to be executed in the Insect Molecular Biology Laboratory within the Department of Entomology, under the able guidance of Dr. Vikas Jindal, Principal Entomologist. Dr. Jindal, a seasoned researcher, has previously clinched various adhoc projects from eminent organizations such as DBT, SERB, and UGC, showcasing his expertise and prowess in the field.
Dr. Thakur assumes the role of Principal Investigator for this groundbreaking project, which aims to characterize the insect biogenic amine receptor and monoamines in whitefly, a notorious pest wreaking havoc on cotton crops. Her appointment underscores her exceptional academic trajectory and her unwavering dedication to scientific inquiry.
Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Thakur has distinguished herself as a meritorious student, earning accolades such as the Mrs. Jaswant Kaur Bindra Fellowship and the Baba Ganga Singh Memorial Innovation Award during her Ph.D. program. These accolades stand as a testament to her academic prowess and commitment to excellence in research.
The announcement of Dr. Thakur’s accomplishment was met with warm congratulations from key figures within the PAU community. Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, the Vice-Chancellor of PAU, along with Dr. MIS Gill, Dean of Postgraduate Studies, Dr. AS Dhatt, Director of Research, and Dr. DK Sharma, Head of the Department of Entomology, extended their heartfelt felicitations to Dr. Thakur and her mentor, Dr. Jindal. Their well-wishes signal the collective pride and support of the PAU fraternity for this significant achievement.
As Dr. Thakur embarks on this groundbreaking research endeavor, she carries with her not only the legacy of PAU but also the hopes of advancing scientific knowledge and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. Her success serves as an inspiration for aspiring researchers and underscores the vital role of institutions like PAU in nurturing talent and fostering innovation in the field of agricultural sciences.