Life Sciences
Move beyond understanding the building blocks of life. Become a Biosciences researcher, Biotech entrepreneur, or Healthcare innovator. Pursue an MS by Research or PhD in Life Sciences at Atria University.
OUR TEAM
World-class experts driving progress in Life Sciences
Dr. Saurabh Mahajan
Head, CoE Life Sciences
Dr. Saurabh Mahajan is an Associate Professor of Biology and heads the Atria Centre of Excellence in Life Sciences at Atria University.
Dr. Abhishek Sinha
Associate Professor - Life Sciences
Dr. Abhishek Sinha is an accomplished microbiologist and serves as an Associate Professor in Life Sciences.
Dr. Upasana Mohapatra
Assistant Professor- Life Sciences
Dr. Upasana Mohapatra, a specialist in Agriculture and Plant Science, boasts expertise that spans Biochemistry, Genetics, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, and Hydroponics
Dr. Balamurali G. S
Associate Professor, Life Sciences
Dr. Balamurali G. S. is an Associate Professor at Atria University with expertise in microbiology, animal cognition, and evolutionary biology.
Dr. Asha Velayudhan Nair
Associate Professor, Life Sciences
Dr. Asha Velayudhan Nair is an Associate Professor at Atria University specializing in antimicrobial resistance, drug delivery systems, and biofilm-mediated resistance.
Dr. Kristi Kabyashree
Assistant Professor, Life Sciences
Dr. Kristi Kabyashree serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Life Sciences at Atria University.
OUR PROJECTS
Explore our groundbreaking projects in Life Sciences
Antifungal Research
Investigating novel antifungal compounds derived from natural sources to combat drug-resistant fungal infections. This project focuses on identifying bioactive molecules from plant extracts and microbial sources that can inhibit pathogenic fungi, with a particular emphasis on Candida and Aspergillus species that pose significant risks to immunocompromised patients.
eDNA Testing & Interspecies Conservation
Using environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling techniques to monitor biodiversity and support conservation efforts across ecosystems. By analysing trace genetic material from water and soil samples, the team can identify species presence without physical capture, enabling non-invasive biodiversity surveys for wildlife corridors and protected areas.
Cancer Research and Phytochemicals
Exploring the anti-cancer properties of plant-derived compounds (phytochemicals) as potential therapeutic agents. Research focuses on screening medicinal plant extracts for cytotoxic activity against cancer cell lines, identifying lead compounds, and investigating their mechanisms of action in apoptosis and cell cycle regulation.
Molecular Markers and Proteostasis
Investigating molecular markers associated with proteostasis — the maintenance of protein homeostasis — and their role in neurodegenerative diseases. The research explores how disruptions in protein folding, aggregation, and degradation pathways contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, with aims to identify early diagnostic markers.
Our Postgraduate Programmes
MS by Research
Duration
2 Years
Stipend
₹20,000 per month
Fees
₹1,00,000 per year
PhD Programme
Duration
3–5 Years
Stipend
₹31,000 per month (UGC/CSIR scale)
Fees
₹50,000 per year
Eligibility Criteria
PhD Programme
For candidates seeking to lead original research in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or Environmental Science.
- Master's degree (M.Sc / M.Tech / MCA or equivalent) in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related field with minimum 60% marks
- Valid GATE / UGC-NET / CSIR-NET / DBT-JRF score preferred
- Research proposal submitted at time of application
- Interview with the Life Sciences faculty committee
Master's Programme
For graduates seeking advanced specialisation in Life Sciences and Biotechnology.
- B.Sc / B.Tech in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or related field with minimum 60% marks
- Valid GATE score (preferred but not mandatory)
- Statement of purpose highlighting research interests
Research Areas
Explore our diverse research domains in Life Sciences
Molecular Biology & Genomics
Genetic mechanisms, gene expression, and molecular diagnostics.
Biotechnology & Bioinformatics
Computational biology, genome analysis, and data-driven life sciences.
Environmental DNA (eDNA)
Non-invasive biodiversity monitoring and ecosystem health assessment.
Biochemistry & Metabolomics
Metabolic pathways, enzyme kinetics, and biochemical profiling.
Cancer Biology
Oncology research, phytochemical therapeutics, and cell signalling.
Sustainable Agriculture
Plant biotechnology, soil microbiome, and food security solutions.
Neuroscience & Proteostasis
Protein homeostasis, neurodegeneration, and molecular markers.
Climate & Ecosystem Science
Climate resilience, ecological sustainability, and conservation biology.
Events
Engaging Symposiums and Conclaves
Join us for groundbreaking events that bring together researchers, practitioners, and stakeholders to address critical challenges in life sciences and environmental sustainability.
Life Sciences Research Conclave 2024
An annual gathering of leading researchers, clinicians, and industry experts to showcase cutting-edge research in biotechnology, molecular biology, and environmental science. The conclave featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and student research poster presentations.
Latest Insights
Explore our latest articles on life sciences, biotechnology, and healthcare innovation
eDNA: The Future of Biodiversity Monitoring AAA
How environmental DNA sampling is transforming conservation biology — enabling scientists to detect species from water and soil samples without ever setting eyes on the organism.
Phytochemicals in Cancer Therapy: Nature's Drug Cabinet
A look at the promising anti-cancer compounds being discovered in medicinal plants — from turmeric's curcumin to neem's nimbolide — and the research happening at Atria's Life Sciences lab.
Proteostasis and Neurodegeneration: The Protein Folding Crisis
Understanding how failures in protein quality control lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's — and what the latest research tells us about potential interventions.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Take the Next Step Forward
Become a part of the Life Sciences CoE at Atria University, where knowledge transforms into real-world solutions. Join researchers, innovators, and educators shaping the future of biotechnology and environmental science.