Dr. Mohana Kumara Patel is an accomplished scientist currently serving as Assistant Professor, Directorate of Research, at the University of Horticultural Sciences (UHS), Bagalkot, Karnataka (15 June 2025 – till date). He holds a strong academic foundation in plant sciences and metabolomics, with advanced training and research exposure at premier national and international institutions. His early career includes an Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship at IIT Madras and international research experience at Concordia University, Montreal, Canada, as part of the Canadian Commonwealth Exchange Program.

Research Expertise & Interests

Dr. Patel’s research spans multi-omics, metabolomics, mass spectrometry-based tissue imaging, medicinal plant biology, network pharmacology, genetic diversity analysis, and sustainable biotechnologies. His work integrates cutting-edge analytical platforms (DESI-MS, MALDI-MS, multi-omics) with traditional knowledge systems (IKS) to uncover functional metabolites, biosynthetic pathways, and therapeutic applications of medicinal and horticultural plants.

Major Research Projects & Grants

Dr. Patel has successfully led and coordinated high-value, competitive research projects funded by SERB-DST, DBT, NBA, AICTE-IKS, BIRAC, Dabur India Ltd., and Ministry of Education, with cumulative funding exceeding ₹250 lakhs.
Key highlights include:

• SERB Early Career Research Grant (ECR) on multi-omic and metabolite imaging approaches

• DBT-funded project on sustainable production of anticancer chromone alkaloids

• IKS projects on network pharmacology and metabolic health management using traditional crops

• NBA-funded national project on genetic diversity and SSR marker development

Awards, Fellowships & Honors

Dr. Patel is a recipient of several prestigious national and international recognitions, including:

• SERB–DST Young Scientist Award

• Canadian Commonwealth Exchange Fellowship

• SERB & DST International Travel Grants

• InRes C. V. Raman Prize (2022)

• S. Ramanujan Award for Outstanding Scientists (2024)

• Outstanding Environmentalist Award (2024)

• Selection for Young Scientist Awardee Sessions at international congresses (IPP, FAOBAM)

These honors reflect his sustained excellence, innovation, and leadership in scientific research.

Publications, Patents & Scholarly Contributions

• Publications: 25 peer-reviewed research articles

• Patents: 2 granted international patents (India & USA) on novel chromone alkaloids for cancer and inflammatory disorders

• Conferences: 11

• Workshops/Trainings Attended: 18

• Workshops/Refresher Courses Conducted: Multiple national-level programs funded by the Indian Academy of Sciences

Academic Leadership & Capacity Building

Dr. Patel has played a significant role in capacity building and advanced training, serving as Course Coordinator for national refresher courses and virtual workshops on multi-omic applications in medicinal plant research, supported by the Indian Academy of Sciences. His efforts have contributed to skill development among researchers, faculty, and students across India.

Eligibility for Excellent Researcher Award 

Based on his outstanding research output, sustained external funding, international exposure, high-impact publications, granted patents, prestigious awards, and leadership in interdisciplinary science, Dr. Mohana Kumara Patel is highly eligible for the Excellent Researcher Award under Scientific Laurels. His career demonstrates originality, societal relevance, translational impact, and consistent scientific excellence, aligning perfectly with the core criteria of the award.