Dr. Vishwajit Darekar is an accomplished academician, researcher, and Assistant Professor in the Department of P.G. Studies and Research in Zoology, Sharnbasva University, Kalaburagi, Karnataka. He completed his Ph.D. in Life Sciences with specialization in Reproductive Biology and Toxicology, establishing expertise in experimental toxicology, reproductive health, endocrinology, and animal biotechnology. With more than eight years of teaching and research experience, he has significantly contributed to higher education through undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, research mentoring, curriculum development, and academic administration. Prior to joining Sharnbasva University, he served as a Lecturer at Sharnbasveshwar College of Science, Kalaburagi.

Research Contributions

Dr. Darekar's research primarily focuses on reproductive toxicology, endocrine disruption, environmental toxicology, reproductive biology, histology, animal biotechnology, biodiversity conservation, and pharmacology. His work emphasizes evaluating the biological effects of environmental contaminants and pharmaceutical compounds using experimental animal models while adhering to OECD and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) guidelines. He has successfully supervised funded student research projects, conducted preclinical toxicological investigations, and contributed to advancing reproductive health research.

Publications and Scholarly Achievements

Dr. Darekar has an impressive publication record comprising 30 scholarly contributions, including:

• 24 research papers published in Indian and international peer-reviewed journals.
• 4 conference proceedings.
• 1 book chapter published by CRC Press (Taylor & Francis Group).
• 1 edited academic book, Human Microbiome and Health (2026), published by IIP Iterative International Publishers.

His publications demonstrate sustained contributions to life sciences, toxicology, reproductive biology, and biomedical research.

Research Projects and Grants

Dr. Darekar has successfully guided Karnataka State Council for Science and Technology (KSCST) funded student research projects. His 47th Series KSCST Project (2023–2024) received the prestigious Best Project of the Year Award at the State-Level Poster Presentation and Exhibition supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka and Government of India. He also secured another KSCST-funded project under the 48th Series (2024–2025), reflecting consistent excellence in externally funded research.

Academic Leadership and Administrative Contributions

Alongside teaching and research, Dr. Darekar has held several important academic leadership roles, including:

• Research Coordinator for the Faculty of Science and Technology Ph.D. Programme.
• Member Secretary, Institutional Animal Ethics Committee.
• Scholarship Coordinator.
• Nodal Officer for KSCST Student Project Programme.
• Centre Superintendent and Deputy Centre Superintendent for University Examinations.
• Observer for NEET (UG) and AISSEE examinations deputed by the National Testing Agency.

These responsibilities highlight his commitment to academic governance, ethical research practices, and institutional quality assurance.

Awards and Professional Recognition

In recognition of his dedication to teaching excellence, Dr. Darekar received the Best Teacher Award (2022) from Sharnbasva University. His research mentorship was further recognized when his guided KSCST project received the Best Project of the Year Award (2024) at the state level. His active participation in national and international conferences, workshops, seminars, and faculty development programmes reflects his commitment to continuous professional development and scientific advancement.

Professional Development and Scientific Engagement

Dr. Darekar has actively participated in numerous national and international conferences, presenting research on reproductive toxicology, endocrine disruption, biodiversity, nanotoxicology, and environmental health. He has also completed specialized training in Research Methodology, Research Publication Ethics, CCSEA Guidelines for Animal Research, Biosystematics, and Taxonomy, strengthening his multidisciplinary research expertise.

Eligibility for Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Vishwajit Darekar is well qualified for the Best Researcher Award under the Scientific Laurels category based on his sustained excellence in scientific research, publications, funded projects, research mentorship, and academic leadership. His profile demonstrates significant contributions to reproductive biology, toxicology, environmental health, and life sciences, supported by 30 scholarly publications, an authored academic book, an international book chapter, successful execution of multiple KSCST-funded research projects, and state-level recognition for Best Project of the Year. His active participation in national and international scientific conferences, leadership in institutional research activities, ethical oversight through the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee, and commitment to mentoring young researchers further strengthen his credentials. Collectively, these achievements reflect outstanding research productivity, innovation, scientific impact, and academic excellence, making him a deserving candidate for the Scientific Laurels – Best Researcher Award.