Research
The main research focus in the laboratory of molecular and conservation genetics is on the use of state of the arts DNA tools and techniques to address questions related to species origin, systematics, diversity and infectious diseases. We are using wide range of methodologies to obtain genomic DNA ranging from noninvasive, invasive to environmental DNA (eDNA) and historical/museum DNA. Both Sanger sequencing and next generation sequencing approaches using Illumina platform are employed to harness genetic information. In the past our lab provided first ever genetic insights into the genome sequencing of an Indian pestes des petits ruminants virus as well as genetic diversity of an endangered wild ass (Equus hemionus khur) inhabiting Rann of Kutch, Gujarat (Please see publications for detail). Currently, we are studying the phylogenomics using next generation sequencing approach of viruses causing infectious diseases in domestic animals. Also includes whole genomic sequencing of Indian bison commonly called as gaur (Bos gaurus gaurus). The other species of the interest are the endangered Indian gray wolf (Canis lupus pallipes).During this short period, lab has established excellent protocols for noninvasive DNA extraction and amplification. The lab is also instrumental in establishing in silico expertise in analyses of Sanger sequencing data using most up to date softwares such as DIYABC, STRUCTURE, BEAST, GENEPOP, MICROCHECKER, CERVUS, Arlequin. Of note, also linux based analyses of genomic data originating from genotyping by sequencing (GBS), genome sequencing such as RNA-seq and variant calling (SNP’s) is also established. Also, lab has established good expertise in programming languages such as Perl and R. Till date lab contributed over 150 DNA sequences in GenBank (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).
