S. Rajashekara | Wildlife Biology | Best Innovation Award

Assistant Professor at Bangalore University, India

Dr. S. Rajashekara is a seasoned zoologist specializing in ornithology, biodiversity, and bio-ecology. His notable contributions span wildlife conservation, molecular phylogenetics, and nanobiotechnology. With over 20 years of teaching and 18 years of research experience, he has guided multiple M.Sc. projects, published extensively, and earned recognition like the “Best Scientist of the Year 2024.” His citation indices and innovative research projects highlight his academic excellence.

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Education

Dr. S. Rajashekara holds a Ph.D. in Zoology with a specialization in ornithology, biodiversity, and conservation from Bangalore University, Bengaluru, awarded in 2012. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Botany, Chemistry, and Zoology from Bangalore University, where he graduated in 2000 with distinction. Pursuing his passion for zoology, he completed a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in the field in 2002, achieving first-class honors. His M.Phil. in Zoology from Periyar University, Salem, in 2006, focused on research methodology and wildlife biology, further enriching his academic expertise. In addition, Dr. Rajashekara is certified in Life Sciences through the Karnataka State Eligibility Test (KSET) and has undertaken specialized courses in bioinformatics and genetics from renowned institutions worldwide. His robust academic foundation has equipped him with multidisciplinary skills, enabling impactful contributions to research and education in biodiversity and conservation sciences.

work Experience

Dr. S. Rajashekara has amassed extensive teaching and research experience over two decades, predominantly at Bangalore University, Bengaluru. He currently serves as Guest Faculty at the Centre for Applied Genetics, teaching M.Sc. students since 2013. His earlier roles include teaching integrated B.Sc.-M.Sc. courses at the School of Natural Science and guiding research projects in the Department of Zoology. Beyond academia, he contributed as a Research Field Assistant for the DST Project (WOS-B Scheme), focusing on conservation biology. Dr. Rajashekara’s career highlights include supervising postgraduate projects in molecular phylogenetics, cytogenetics, and nanobiotechnology, fostering research collaborations, and publishing extensively. His pedagogical approach emphasizes blending classical methodologies with modern technologies, ensuring students are equipped for future challenges. With a strong commitment to education, research, and biodiversity conservation, he continues to inspire students and peers while advancing the frontiers of zoological sciences.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. S. Rajashekara’s outstanding contributions to science and education have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious “Best Scientist of the Year 2024” awarded by the Youth Efforts for Society Trust. This recognition highlights his pioneering work in biodiversity conservation and environmental impact assessment. His consistent dedication to advancing research and innovation in zoology and genetics has garnered national acclaim, including recommendations for excellence in his doctoral and postgraduate studies. Dr. Rajashekara is also honored for his impactful teaching methods and ability to translate complex scientific concepts into practical applications. These recognitions underscore his commitment to fostering a culture of excellence in academia and research. His achievements resonate with his lifelong mission of preserving biodiversity, mentoring aspiring scientists, and advancing sustainable development through multidisciplinary research.

Research Focus

Dr. S. Rajashekara’s research focuses on biodiversity conservation, molecular phylogenetics, and cytogenetics. He delves into the behavioral ecology and bio-ecology of avian species, striving to uncover insights that enhance wildlife preservation efforts. His investigations extend to environmental impact assessments, mutation biology, and cancer genetics, with a special emphasis on molecular mechanisms underlying cellular processes. A key area of interest is nanobiotechnology, where he explores green synthesis and applications of nanoparticles. Additionally, his work on antimicrobial properties of plant extracts bridges natural sciences with pharmacology. Dr. Rajashekara’s interdisciplinary research integrates advanced molecular techniques with classical zoology, providing innovative solutions to global challenges in biodiversity and sustainable development. He actively supervises postgraduate projects, fostering innovation and contributing to the academic community through impactful publications. His research embodies a commitment to understanding and conserving the natural world for future generations.

Skills

Dr. S. Rajashekara possesses a broad skill set encompassing teaching, research, and technical expertise. His proficiency in animal sciences, ornithology, and behavioral ecology is complemented by his specialization in cytogenetics and molecular phylogenetics. Dr. Rajashekara is adept in advanced molecular technologies, including DNA sequencing, bioinformatics, and nanobiotechnology. He is skilled in biodiversity monitoring and environmental impact assessment, using innovative methodologies to assess and mitigate ecological challenges. His ability to synthesize knowledge across disciplines allows him to excel in supervision, curriculum design, and scholarly writing. Technologically savvy, he integrates computational tools into research and teaching, ensuring effective knowledge dissemination. His dedication to conservation biology and sustainable development is matched by his expertise in training and mentoring students, enabling them to thrive in academic and professional settings.

Conclusion

Dr. Rajashekara’s accomplishments and innovative research make him a strong contender for the Best Innovation Award. Enhanced interdisciplinary efforts and global presence could further bolster his candidacy.

Publications to Noted

Occurrence of House Sparrow, Passer domesticus indicus, in and around Bangalore

Authors: S. Rajashekar, M.G. Venkatesha

Citations: 73

Year: 2008

Insectivorous bird communities of diverse agro-ecosystems in the Bengaluru region, India

Authors: S. Rajashekara, M.G. Venkatesha

Citations: 45

Year: 2014

Biomedical Applications of Biogenic Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Manufactured from Leaf Extracts of Calotropis gigantea (L.) Dryand.

Authors: S. Rajashekara, A. Shrivastava, S. Sumhitha, S. Kumari

Citations: 44

Year: 2020

Community composition of aquatic birds in lakes of Bangalore, India

Authors: S. Rajashekara, M.G. Venkatesha

Citations: 40

Year: 2011

The diversity and abundance of waterbirds in lakes of Bangalore city, Karnataka, India

Authors: S. Rajashekara, M.G. Venkatesha

Citations: 38

Year: 2010

Seasonal Incidence and Diversity Pattern of Avian Communities in the Bangalore University Campus, India

Authors: S. Rajashekara, M.G. Venkatesha

Citations: 22

Year: 2017

Temporal and spatial avian community composition in urban landscapes of Bengaluru, India

Authors: S. Rajashekara, M.G. Venkatesha

Citations: 22

Year: 2015

Eco-spatial and Temporal Variation in Waterbirds Composition and their relationship with Habitat Characteristics of Urban Lakes of Bengaluru city, India

Authors: S. Rajashekara, M.G. Venkatesha

Citations: 18

Year: 2014

Biological isolation and characterization of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don methanolic leaves extracts and their assessment for antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and apoptotic activities

Authors: S. Rajashekara, D. Reena, M. Mainavi, L.S. Sandhya, U. Baro

Citations: 17

Year: 2022

Impact of Urban Threats and Disturbance on the Survival of Waterbird Communities in Wetlands of Bengaluru City, India

Authors: S. Rajashekara, M.G. Venkatesha

Citations: 10

Year: 2018

Mr. Shyam Kumar Shah | Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Senior Conservation Officer at Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC), Nepal

Shyam Kumar Shah, a Senior Conservation Officer at Langtang National Park, Nepal, has an extensive academic background and professional experience in biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, and protected area governance. His research contributions and leadership in conservation initiatives span over two decades. He has demonstrated expertise in remote sensing, GIS, species monitoring, and sustainable management practices. With multiple international publications, significant training, and field-based conservation efforts, Mr. Shah embodies the qualities of a dedicated researcher and practitioner.

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Education

Shyam holds a Master’s degree in Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation from the University of Twente, Netherlands, where he researched carbon stock modeling using high-resolution satellite imagery. He earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Wildlife Management from the Wildlife Institute of India and a Bachelor’s in Forestry and Physics from Tribhuvan University, Nepal. His academic pursuits reflect a strong commitment to sustainable natural resource management and scientific research.

work Experience

Shyam’s career spans roles such as Senior Ecologist and Chief Conservation Officer in various national parks and wildlife reserves, including Banke National Park and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. His responsibilities have ranged from species monitoring to tourism management. Notably, he managed the Protected Area and Buffer Zone project under WWF Nepal, fostering conservation in critical forest corridors and buffer zones. Shyam’s leadership has significantly contributed to biodiversity conservation and policy implementation in Nepal.

Research Focus

Shyam’s research emphasizes remote sensing applications in carbon stock estimation, biodiversity conservation, and wildlife management. His work includes modeling canopy projection area for above-ground biomass and studying habitat dynamics of endangered species. He contributes to global conservation dialogues through workshops and publications addressing wildlife conflicts and sustainable ecosystem management.

Skills

Shyam excels in GIS analysis, remote sensing, statistical modeling, and species distribution mapping. Proficient in software like ERDAS Imagine, SPSS, and Maxent Model, he applies these tools for habitat analysis and conservation planning. His project management and stakeholder engagement skills have driven the success of multidisciplinary conservation projects.

Award and Honors

Shyam has received prestigious awards like the Chief of the Army Staff Commendation Award and multiple Letters of Appreciation for his conservation efforts. He is a life member of Bird Conservation Nepal and the ITC Alumni Association. His accolades include tokens of appreciation from USAID’s Hariyo Ban Program and various local conservation bodies, recognizing his impact on Nepal’s biodiversity management.

Conclusion

Shyam Kumar Shah is an exemplary candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His extensive professional experience, dedication to conservation, and impactful research make him a strong contender. While his achievements are already significant, focusing on deepening research themes and increasing visibility in international academia could further elevate his contributions. Overall, his proven leadership and research outputs align perfectly with the award’s objective of recognizing excellence in research.

Publications to Noted

First photographic record of Hoary-bellied Squirrel in Banke National Park, Nepal
Authors: Aashish Chaudhary, Nimesh Pandey, Harendra Poudyal, Ajaya Ram Gautam, Shantam Bhandari
Citation: Published in Journal of Threatened Taxa, 2023.
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8683.15.11.24284-24287

Population status and threats to Fishing Cat in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Authors: Laxmi Maharjan, Prakash Chandra Baral, Nabin Subedi
Citation: Published in Nepalese Journal of Zoology, 2021.
DOI: 10.3126/njz.v5i1.38284

Opportunistic records of Jungle Cat in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Authors: Nabin Subedi, Laxmi Maharjan
Citation: Published in Nepalese Journal of Zoology, 2020.
DOI: 10.3126/njz.v4i1.30673

Status of the Bengal Florican in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Authors: Ganesh Thapa, Prakash Chandra Baral, Madan Subedi, Nabin Subedi
Citation: Published in Journal of Threatened Taxa, 2020.
DOI: 10.11609/jott.4832.12.9.16006-16012