Dr. Kumari Asha is a dedicated researcher in the field of Drosophila biology, molecular genetics, and biodiversity assessment. With over five years of research experience and nearly three years of teaching experience, she has contributed significantly to understanding species diversity and genetic variation among drosophilids in the Himalayan region. Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to both scientific research and higher education, mentoring students while actively engaging in field-based and laboratory-based investigations.

Research Achievements

• Described 03 new records and 10 new species of drosophilids from Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, expanding the known biodiversity of the region.

  Recently awarded by the Minister of Public Works and Urban Development for outstanding contribution in the field of education Organized by Divya Himachal.

• Conducted extensive molecular research assessing genetic variations using three mitochondrial genes:

  • 16S rRNA

  • Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI)

  • Cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (COII)

• Generated a significant genetic dataset comprising 490 sequences:

  • 69 (16S rRNA)

  • 297 (COI)

  • 124 (COII)

• Her work contributes valuable insights into phylogenetics, population dynamics, and species identification techniques.

  Teaching & Research Experience

• Research Experience: 5 years

• Teaching Experience: 2 years 9 months
  She has effectively blended field research, molecular techniques, and classroom teaching, demonstrating a balanced academic portfolio.

Publications & Academic Contributions

• 08 Research Articles published in scientific journals.

• 02 Book Chapters contributing to scholarly literature.

• Participation in 13 seminars, workshops, lectures, symposiums, and excursions, highlighting her active engagement in academic communities and capacity-building initiatives.

Areas of Expertise

• Drosophilid taxonomy & systematics

• Molecular genetics and mitochondrial gene analysis

• Biodiversity documentation

• Field entomology

• Genetic variation and phylogenetic assessment

Eligibility for Women Researcher Award

Dr. Kumari Asha is highly deserving of the Women Researcher Award under the Scientific Laurels category for her outstanding contributions to drosophilid biodiversity and molecular genetics. Her pioneering work has led to the discovery of three new records and ten new species of drosophilids from Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, significantly enriching the scientific understanding of Himalayan insect fauna. Through meticulous molecular analyses of mitochondrial genes—16S rRNA, COI, and COII—she has generated an impressive dataset of 490 sequences, advancing knowledge in genetic variation and phylogenetics. With five years of research experience, nearly three years of teaching, eight research publications, two book chapters, and active participation in multiple scientific forums, Dr. Asha has demonstrated exceptional scientific rigor, commitment, and impact. Her achievements and dedication to advancing biological sciences make her an exemplary candidate for this prestigious award.