I have completed my Master in Science (major in Zoology), from the M. S. University of Baroda. I did my Ph.D. in ecology and evolution, under the guidance of Dr. Shannon Olsson, at the NCBS, Bangalore. My thesis work includes understating the neural basis for host shift in tephritid fruit flies R. pomonella, where my interdisciplinary work in neurobiology helped us understand how brain chemicals help in the process of speciation.

Currently, I am working as a research associate in the Root Microbiology lab at NCBS. Coming from a chemical ecology lab, here I will further explore the role of volatile organic compounds in mediating the interaction between fungi Fusarium oxysporum and microbes. Parallel to that I will also be looking at host derived signals involved in sensing vascular wilt infection.

Apart from the research work, I also enjoy the process of setting up the new laboratory.  I like organising nature walk and outreach activities with school and undergraduate students. I have also volunteered and follow the environmental sustainability work going on in Bangalore city.