Connection profile

gishas

About: I am a distinguished medical researcher and toxicologist with a career spanning over two decades in both academia and applied research. My professional journey began with a strong academic foundation, earning a PhD in Marine Biology from Cochin University of Science & Technology, which was complemented by my master’s and bachelor’s degrees in Zoology from Mahatma Gandhi University. This early focus on the biological sciences provided the groundwork for the foundational research, which included a senior research fellowship at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute where I studied the ecology of Euphausiacea, and pivotal work at the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology on the aquatic toxicity of nanoparticles. These initial experiences established my expertise in environmental and aquatic toxicology, a theme that would continue to define my career. Following my early work, the research interests evolved to bridge basic science with human health applications. As a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Madras, undertook Dr. D. S. Kothari fellowship, focusing on the in vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetics of nanoparticles encapsulating curcumin. This project marked a significant shift toward pharmacological and translational research. I also dedicated my time to teaching, serving as an Assistant professor at St. Albert's College and Sacred Heart's College, and as an academic counselor for the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). My roles in academia underscore my commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists and an ability to effectively communicate complex scientific concepts. In the current role as an Assistant Professor of Research at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, I’m at the forefront of medical and public health research. I lead critical pre-clinical and clinical studies that investigate the links between environmental contaminants, metabolic disorders, and disease. The high-impact publications demonstrate a sharp focus on modern public health challenges, including the impact of microplastics, pesticides, and other chemical entities on the gut microbiota. I have also conducted important clinical research, analyzing the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and diabetic cheiroarthropathy, and studying the presence of environmental toxins like phthalates in patients with cardiovascular disease. The methodical approach, which combines laboratory work with advanced data analysis, including network analysis and genomics, showcases a comprehensive skill set in translating scientific findings into meaningful health insights. My contributions to science have been recognized through prestigious awards and fellowships, including a Research Associateship from the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Dr. D. S. Kothari Postdoctoral Fellowship from the University Grants Commission (UGC). In 2024, she was honored with the INSA-NASI-IAS Summer Faculty Fellowship from the Central University of Kerala, a testament to her ongoing dedication to academic excellence. Her prolific publication record, which includes peer-reviewed papers and book chapters, reflects a career dedicated to generating impactful data that bridges the gap between basic science and public health. I am a prime example of a researcher who seamlessly integrates diverse fields of study to tackle some of the most pressing health challenges facing society today.