Welcome to
Human Evolutionary Research
Under the guidance of PI Gyaneshwer Chaubey, the lab boasts an impressive range of educational and research experience. Professor Chaubey has received training as a Project Assistant at CSIR-CCMB and has also held positions as a PhD student, Scientist, and Senior Scientist at the University of Tartu and Estonian Biocentre. He has also worked as a visiting scientist at the Sanger Centre, UK. In 2017, he returned to India to join the Department of Zoology at BHU, Varanasi as a full Professor, where he founded the Gyan Lab.
Gyan Lab’s research primarily focuses on the peopling of South and Southeast Asia, with a particular emphasis on the ethnic groups in the region. Our extensive work encompasses several ethnic groups, including Andaman, Austroasiatic, Indian Jews, Himalaya, Siddi, Roma, Parsis etc. To trace the role of migration, drift, and selection in the peopling of South Asia, our team use a range of uniparental and biparental genetic markers. We are also using this information to gain a deeper understanding of the complex genetic basis of disease in Indian subcontinent.
Gyaneshwer Chaubey at the Head Quarters of National Geographic 'Explorers Meet' 2018 (Credits: Taylor Mickal -NatGeo)
Gyaneshwer Chaubey at the 61st 'Lindau Nobel Laureates Meet' in Lindau, Germany (Credits: https://www.lindau-nobel.org/)
The Gyan Lab logo is a thoughtful blend of modern scientific inquiry and rich cultural heritage, proudly signifying its affiliation with Banaras Hindu University through its classic shield and outer ring. At its core, the DNA double helix and microchip highlight the lab's dedication to life sciences, genetics, and advanced technological research. This scientific mission is deeply intertwined with the ultimate pursuit of wisdom, represented by the central figure of Goddess Saraswati and the Hindi word "ज्ञान" (Gyan).
Furthermore, the design grounds the lab in its unique geographical and spiritual setting with depictions of the flowing River Ganga and Varanasi's iconic ghats. Finally, the inclusion of small scientist figures emphasises the dedicated human researchers who are driving discovery and innovation within this historic academic environment.