Suitable for this Excellence in Plant Research
The Excellence in Plant Research Award recognizes outstanding contributions in plant biotechnology, genetic engineering, and molecular biology. This prestigious award honors individuals with significant advancements in plant sciences, fostering sustainable agricultural innovations.
Education
Dr. Ch Bhanu Priya holds a PhD in Plant Biotechnology (2015) from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, specializing in plant genetic engineering. She was a Junior Research Fellow (2008-09) at the same institution, focusing on molecular biology applications in plants. She completed her MSc in Microbiology (2007) from Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, ranking among the top students in her batch. Her academic journey began with a BSc in Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology (2005) at St Joseph’s College for Women, Visakhapatnam, where she was awarded as the best outgoing student in Zoology. Her expertise in plant tissue culture, genetic transformation, and molecular diagnostics has been honed through rigorous training in leading research laboratories. Her academic excellence is complemented by various certifications, including advanced training in functional genomics, proteomics, and structural biology through NPTEL and MHRD programs.
Professional Experience
Dr. Ch Bhanu Priya is an Assistant Professor at MS Ramaiah College of Arts, Science, and Commerce, Bengaluru (2022 – present), mentoring students in microbiology and guiding research projects under the DBT Star College program. Previously, she served as an Assistant Professor (2017-2022) at VIVA College, Mumbai, contributing to syllabus design, exam evaluation, and organizing hands-on workshops in proteomics and immunodiagnostics. Her industry experience includes a 6-month tenure as a Junior Research Assistant in food technology, focusing on removing aflatoxins from food commodities. Throughout her career, she has been actively involved in curriculum development, academic workshops, and international research collaborations. As a resource person for molecular biology workshops, she continues to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications.
Awards and Recognition
- Junior Research Fellow (IIT Kharagpur, 2009) – Sponsored by NFCL Hyderabad.
- Senior Research Fellow (DBT, Govt. of India, 2012).
- Young Academician Award – Hindustan Agricultural Research Welfare System, endorsed by IARI, BHU, ICARDA.
- Young Researcher Award – Recognized for innovative contributions in plant biotechnology.
- Discipline Star (Biosciences Category, NPTEL, 2023).
- Best Outgoing Student in Zoology (2007).
- Master’s Entrance Examination – Rank 283 (Andhra University, 2005).
Dr. Bhanu Priya’s research expertise spans RNA interference (RNAi), CRISPR-Cas gene editing, plant metabolic engineering, phytoremediation, and plant-microbe interactions. She has developed genetic modification strategies to enhance lignin biosynthesis, saccharification efficiency, and bioenergy production in Sorghum bicolor. Her current research explores the anticancer properties of sesquiterpenol precursors in Santalum album L. using plant-pathogen interactions. Additionally, her work on proteomic analysis of Symphorema species contributes to novel antimicrobial and antioxidant compound discovery. She is proficient in bioinformatics, molecular docking, and transcriptomic analysis, leveraging computational tools to optimize crop improvement strategies. Her research findings are published in leading journals, reinforcing her expertise in plant biotechnology.
Publications
RNAi-mediated downregulation of endogenous 4-coumarate: CoA ligase activity in Sorghum bicolor to alter the lignin content, which augmented the carbohydrate content and growth
Exploring Catharanthus roseus-Derived Compounds for Targeting Estrogen Receptors: A Molecular Docking Approach in Cancer Therapy
Callus-mediated organogenesis and regeneration of Sorghum bicolor under the influence of natural and synthetic growth regulators