Dr. Sahadev is a neuroscientist by training, specializing in neurobiology, neurophysiology, and drug delivery research, currently working as a Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at RUAS. Before joining Ramaiah, Sahadev worked as an assistant and associate professor in the Center for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine at Amrita University in Kochi, for more than 10 years. He is a 2013 DBT Ramalingaswamy fellow, and completed his postdoctoral training in the laboratories of Professors Robert Langer at MIT, and Daniel Kohane at Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School. Sahadev holds a Ph.D. in Neurosciences from Loyola University Chicago, an MPH from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and an M.B.B.S. from Bangalore University. When not doing science, Sahadev practices meditation and enjoys long-distance running.
Dr. Nasera is a postdoctoral researcher and her work involves developing neural cue-driven hydrogels for corneal repair. She is a trained Dentist and has completed her MSc in Nanoscience and Technology. She holds a PhD from Manipal Academy of Higher Education. She has been awarded the CSIR-Senior Research Fellowship (CSIR-SRF). Apart from her passion for research, she is a deeply involved mother, enjoys embroidery, and has recently taken up pickleball (passion is not directly proportional to her game!!!).
Ahina is Junior Research Fellow working on understanding how modulating shape of nanoparticles effect their behaviour in single cell membrane systems. She has completed her M.Sc. in chemistry from St. Albert’s college (autonomous), Ernakulam and qualified GATE 2020. She was previously a research fellow at CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru, and strongly believes that research is not just a career or a degree, but a societal responsibility! Other than research, she is interested in reading books and writing articles.
Merlin is Junior Research Fellow and her work involves figuring out how neural innervation plays a role in developing hierarchical tissue systems for purposes of tissue regeneration. She completed her MTech in Biotechnology from D.Y.Patil Deemed to be University, Mumbai, and has been a research student at ACTREC, Mumbai. She has also worked at ICMR-NIRRH as Project Assistant on clinical research projects, and has experience in stem cell biology as a part of her Project Assistant position at IISER Thiruvananthapuram. Apart from her passion for research, she loves to play the violin, sing, dance, read novels, and watch movies.
Pushpa B N is a PhD researcher working in the field of cartilage preservation, osteochondral graft viability, and regenerative medicine, with valuable experience in Tissue Bank operations and tissue preservation practices. Her professional work in tissue banking has strengthened her expertise in tissue processing, storage, and quality maintenance, which directly informs her PhD research focused on developing optimized preservation strategies for articular cartilage and osteochondral grafts. By bridging practical tissue banking experience with translational musculoskeletal research, she aims to advance clinically relevant approaches that enhance graft quality and improve outcomes in cartilage repair. In addition to her research, she enjoys reading, scientific writing, and creating impactful academic presentations.
Raj is a PhD scholar in Biotechnology at Shankarappa Lab, RUAS, Bengaluru. Supported by DRDO funding, his research integrates neuroscience, material science, and pharmaceutics to design nanowood-based thermogenic transdermal patches that mitigate cold weather–induced sensory deficits. His aim is to establish preclinical evidence that paves the way for clinical translation and practical solutions for soldiers in extreme environments. Beyond the lab, Raj enjoys singing, playing almost every sport, and exploring new knowledge across diverse fields, with a natural inclination to connect ideas and uncover how the world works in subtle, meaningful ways.
Adith is currently PhD scholar in Biotechnology at Shankarappa Lab, with a research focus on the application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in biology and health sciences. Adith holds an undergraduate degree in Biotechnology, Genetics, and Biochemistry from Dayananda Sagar University and a Master's from Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. Apart from academics and research, he enjoys playing the guitar and enjoys exploring films and cinema. He is enthusiastic about learning new technologies, developing his research skills, and exploring the intersection of biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and health sciences.
Bhavya Kasala is a postgraduate student in M.Sc. Molecular and Cellular Biology at M S Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. She holds an undergraduate degree from Amrita School of Biotechnology. She is interested in protein chemistry, stem cell biology and neurobiology, with a focus currently on a project that investigates how different local microenvironment shape the morphology of cultured C. elegans neurons, leading to distinct phenotypes that may serve as a platform for screening neuroprotective compounds. Beyond the lab, she enjoys photography, painting, writing, poetry, and cycling.
Tamanna Elizabeth Thomas is a postgraduate student pursuing an M.Sc. in Biotechnology at M S Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. She holds an undergraduate degree in Biotechnology and Chemistry from Mount Carmel (Deemed to be University). Her research interests lie in molecular mechanisms of aging and longevity, with her current work focusing on C. elegans as a model organism to investigate how parental low-dose ethanol exposure induces heritable changes in lipid accumulation and DAF-16/FOXO signalling, and how these changes influence longevity in unexposed progeny. Outside the lab, she enjoys staying active through sports, exploring the outdoors on treks, and unwinding with music.
Pooja is currently pursuing her M.Sc. in Biotechnology and has a strong interest in life sciences research. Her research focuses on understanding how parental low-dose ethanol exposure induces heritable changes in lipid accumulation and DAF-16/FOXO signalling, which affect longevity in their unexposed progeny. Apart from academics and research, she enjoys painting, watching movies, and listening to music. She is enthusiastic about learning new techniques, developing her research skills, and contributing meaningfully to the field of biotechnology.
Sanjana S is a postgraduate student pursuing an M.Sc. in Biotechnology at Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (RUAS), Bangalore, with a B.Sc. from M.E.S. College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Bangalore. Her current research focuses on understanding the heritable effects of parental low-dose ethanol exposure on lipid accumulation, DAF-16/FOXO signalling, and longevity in unexposed progeny. She is particularly interested in neuroscience, human genetics, and molecular biology, with a keen interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying complex biological processes. She previously interned at the High Voltage Laboratory, IISc, working on plasma applications for seed treatment and germination. Outside the lab, she enjoys calligraphy, art works, glass painting, and reading books.
Surabhi Kaipy is a Biotechnology undergraduate at M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. Her current research interests lie in understanding host-gut microbiome interactions, using C. elegans as a model to study how gut bacteria influence host survival and metabolism. Beyond science, Surabhi is a professional dancer and teacher. She also enjoys emceeing and organizing student club events.
Anjali is an undergraduate student pursuing a B.Sc. (Hons) in Biotechnology at M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (RUAS). Her research interests lie in host-gut bacteria interactions, using C. elegans as a model organism to explore how gut bacteria influence host survival and stress responses. She is particularly drawn to understanding the mechanisms underlying molecular signaling pathways. Outside the lab, she is an open water swimmer with a particular interest in endurance sports and enjoys photography.
Gayathri M. Gupta is an undergraduate student pursuing a B.Sc. Biotechnology (Hons) at M S Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. She is interested in Molecular Biology, Cell Signaling, Aging, and Drug Discovery. Her current research looks at the potential of Azadirachta indica (neem) extract in studying advanced glycation end products and longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans. Outside the lab, she enjoys reading, travelling, and being involved in creative and cultural activities.
Jhaanavika is an undergraduate student in B.Sc. Biotechnology at M S Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. She is interested in Neuroscience, Cell Signaling and Stem Cell biology. Her work explores the effect of probiotics and microgravity on longevity of Caenorhabditis elegans. Beyond the lab she is interested in reading books, photography and crocheting.
Harshith is an undergraduate student in B.Sc. Biotechnology at M S Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences. He is interested in Neuroscience, Stem Cell biology and Forensic Sciences. His work explores the effect of probiotics and microgravity on longevity of Caenorhabditis elegans. Apart from this he enjoys Philosophy, long drives, working out and travelling.
Meghana Peddasomayajula is an undergraduate student pursuing a B.Sc (Hons) in Biotechnology at M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (RUAS). She is interested in neuroscience, molecular biology and understanding the processes that influence ageing and longevity. Her current work explores the effects of thermal contrast cycling on longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans. Outside the lab, she enjoys reading, drawing and trying out different crafts.
Gaurisha Tripathi is an undergraduate Biotechnology student with an interest in molecular biology and understanding how environmental factors affect biological systems. Her current research focuses on pharyngeal pumping in Caenorhabditis elegans, investigating how changes in temperature and exposure duration affect pumping rate. Through this work, she aims to explore how thermal stress influences physiological function and its possible relationship with neuronal and neuromuscular health. Beyond academics and the lab, Gaurisha enjoys photography , crafting, and playing speedball. She enjoys exploring creative activities alongside her interest in science.
Former Lab members:
Sumi E. Mathew – SRF (2014)
Dr. Neeraj Katiyar – (2014–2021)
Siva – SRF (2016)
Gayathri R. – SRF (2017–2020)
Vignesh – SRF (2017–2019)
Rajlakshmi – Master’s Thesis (2017–2018)
Amata – Master’s Thesis (2018–2019)
Dr. Chinnu Jerard – SRF (2018–2022), PhD
Dr. Pallavi Madhusudanan – PhD (2018–2023)
Anushka – Master’s Thesis (2019–2020)
Parvathi – Master’s Thesis (2020–2021)
Andrea Antony – Master’s Thesis (2021–2022)
Jinu Roy – Master’s Thesis (2021–2022)
Aditi Swamy – Master’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Goutham S. – Bachelor’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Karishma Ravikumar – Master’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Meet Joshi – Master’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Moupali Saha – Master’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Nashida Shaheen – Master’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Raji M. R. – Master’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Sherin Alice Joseph – Bachelor’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Sucharita Yanamandra – Master’s Thesis (2022–2023)
Anjitha Jayesh – Master’s Thesis (2023–2024)
Dineshraj – Master’s Thesis (2023–2024)
Meghna Alarkan – Master’s Thesis (2023–2024)
Pavan Ruthwik Kondapally – Master’s Thesis (2023–2024)
Raazi Mashook – Master’s Thesis (2023–2024)
Abhishek J. – Master’s Thesis (2024–2025)
Madhav Sujith – Master’s Thesis (2024–2025)
Prarthana S. – Master’s Thesis (2024–2025)
Shreeraksha Upadhyaya – Master’s Thesis (2024–2025)
Eeshaan S Reddy - Bachelor's Thesis (2025-2026)
Lakshmi Praveena M - Bachelor's Thesis (2025-2026)
Mahek Mavani - Bachelor's Thesis (2025-2026)
Sonal Chaudhary - Master’s Thesis (2025–2026)
Ayesha Wahab - Master’s Thesis (2025–2026)
Neha Day - Master’s Thesis (2025–2026)
Sonu G - Master’s Thesis (2025–2026)
Malavika Kulkarni - Master’s Thesis (2025–2026)