Dr. Manuel Thomas is a distinguished microbiologist and researcher specializing in fungal infections, rodent-borne pathogens, and emerging infectious diseases. He has an extensive publication record in reputed international journals and has contributed significantly to environmental microbiology, biotechnology, and disease ecology. His academic journey includes rigorous research on microbial pathogens in wetland ecosystems, rivers, and oil palm plantations of Kerala, India. Dr. Thomas has also authored and edited books and book chapters on global health, pandemics, and bioactive compounds.

Research Contributions

• Fungal and Rodent-Borne Pathogens: Investigated coelomycetous fungi, dematiaceous fungi, and dermatophytes in wild rodents across Kerala’s wetlands and agricultural landscapes.

• Environmental Microbiology: Explored fungal prevalence in river basins and the implications for human and ecological health.

• Bioactive Compounds & Biotechnology: Characterized microbial metabolites with potential antifungal activity, including studies on microfouling actinobacteria from marine environments.

• Climate Change and Health: Examined links between climate variability and emerging infectious diseases, contributing chapters to edited volumes on Kerala’s environmental challenges.

Publications & Editorial Work

• Journal Articles: Authored 15 peer-reviewed journal articles, 10 of which are UGC CARE/Scopus-listed.

• Books & Book Chapters: Published 15 book chapters focusing on microbiology, pandemics, and environmental health.

• Editorial Work: Served as a reviewer/editor for 14 international journals.

Conferences & Workshops

• Participated in 28 conference paper presentations and 14 international and national workshops/seminars.

• Delivered 15 invited talks and lectures globally.

• Organized the International Conference on Integral Ecology for a New Humanity (2024) as the Organizing Secretary, collaborating with leading universities and research institutions in India.

Awards & Recognitions

• Outstanding Researcher Award, 2022 – Recognized for exemplary contributions to microbiology and environmental research.

Eligibility for Iconic Researcher Award

Dr. Manuel Thomas’s extensive interdisciplinary research, significant contributions to microbiology, environmental health, and climate-linked disease studies, coupled with his leadership in international conferences, publications, patents, and editorial roles, make him a highly eligible candidate for the Iconic Researcher Award in Scientific Laurels. His work reflects both innovation and impact, bridging fundamental research and practical applications in global health and ecology.