Mrs. Mamta Krushnarao Maind from India is a distinguished researcher whose career has been defined by dedication, innovation, and significant contributions to biotechnology. In 2026, she was honoured with the ISSN International Outstanding Researcher Award for her pioneering study entitled “Genetic purity testing of cotton F1 hybrid DHH 11 and parents revealed by molecular markers.” This research analyzed the genetic purity of cotton F1 hybrid DHH 11 and its parental lines, employing PCR-based molecular markers as a powerful genomic tool. Her findings demonstrated the efficiency of these markers in determining hybridity, offering immense potential for strengthening hybrid seed production programs and ensuring reliability in cotton cultivation. This recognition marked a milestone in her scientific journey and underscored her commitment to advancing genomic tools for sustainable agriculture.
With over eight years of research experience across biotechnology, microbiology, molecular biology, and immunology, Mrs. Mamta Krushnarao Maind has established strong proficiency in laboratory techniques and molecular studies. She is currently completing her Ph.D. in Biotechnology at Department of Biotechnology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, under the guidance of Dr. Santosh Hanumantrao Kathwate, focusing on the efficacy of selected non-antifungals and their combinations with a conventional antifungal agent against Candida species and their clinical isolates. Earlier in her career, she served as a Research Associate at the Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), Nagpur, where she worked extensively on molecular characterization of cotton germplasm using DNA markers, contributing to the development of robust methods for genetic diversity analysis and purity testing.
Her professional journey includes diverse roles in leading laboratories and institutions. At the National Institute of Translational Virology and AIDS Research, Pune, she contributed to the Longitudinal Aging Study in India, performing immunological analyses. At Hi-Tech Biosciences India Ltd., Pune, she worked on projects involving Bacillus megaterium, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, E. coli, and enzyme systems such as transaminases, nitrilases, and CYP450. She also contributed to environmental biotechnology through her work at Ecoman Enviro Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Pune, where she studied organic solid waste composting using thermophilic bacteria. These experiences highlight her versatility and ability to adapt her skills to diverse scientific challenges.
Her academic contributions are equally impressive, with six research papers published in national and international journals, one paper in proceedings, twenty-three abstracts presented at national and international conferences and symposia, a popular article, and two training manuals. These publications reflect her sustained engagement with the scientific community and her commitment to disseminating knowledge. Her research work with eminent scientists, Dr. Ashok Dongre has been instrumental in shaping her research trajectory, and she acknowledges his invaluable guidance in achieving her award-winning work. Her publications on genetic purity testing of cotton hybrids and molecular evaluation of germplasm remain significant references in the field of biotechnology.
The ISSN 2026 International Outstanding Researcher Award not only recognizes Mrs. Mamta Krushnarao Maind scientific achievements but also symbolizes her perseverance and integrity in research. It inspires her to continue contributing to science with dedication, expanding the applications of molecular tools in crop research, hybrid seed programs. Her biography reflects a journey of resilience, mentorship, and heartfelt appreciation for the institutions and individuals who have supported her, while emphasizing her unwavering resolve to contribute meaningfully to the global scientific community. Through her work, Mrs. Mamta Krushnarao Maind exemplifies the spirit of innovation and responsibility, standing as a role model for aspiring researchers in biotechnology and beyond.
