KARTIK SUNAGAR
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE
ksunagar {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
Dr. Kartik Sunagar
August 10, 2017
Associate Professor | Group leader
I am an evolutionary geneticist, and I study venomous animals and their venoms as model systems to address various intriguing questions in ecology, evolution and genetics. The major focus of my research in the recent past has been on innovating pan-India efficacious snakebite therapies through the discovery and development of broadly neutralising antibodies. My PhD (University of Porto, Portugal) and postdoctoral research (Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel) has provided fascinating insights into venom ecology and evolution, including the dynamics of venom evolution across large time, evolutionary origin and development of venom-producing cells, coevolutionary arms races, molecular mechanisms of venom action, the genetic basis of venom resistance, and the role of environmental and ecological factors in driving the evolution of venom.
Dr. Adeyi AO
January 2025 - present
Visiting Professor
akindeleo {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
My research focuses on snake venomics and antivenomics, specifically exploring the antivenom potential of medicinal plants. I investigate plant-derived compounds for their ability to counteract the toxic effects of various snake venoms, emphasizing how they mitigate the harmful effects of envenomation. A key part of my work involves understanding the mechanisms by which these compounds exert their antivenom effects, particularly in reducing venom-induced oxidative stress and inflammation. My goal is to identify plant-based therapeutics that can serve as adjuncts to traditional antivenoms or as alternative treatments in resource-limited regions, ultimately contributing to the development of affordable, accessible treatments for snakebite envenomation, especially in areas like Nigeria where it's a major public health issue.
Dr. Rudresha GV
August 2022 - present
Postdoctoral Fellow
rudreshagv {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
My research focuses on the pre-clinical development of a novel small molecule drug for snakebite. At EVL, I am part of a project that aims to develop antibody fragment-based therapy for snakebite victims in the Indian subcontinent. During doctoral research at University of Mysore, I worked on a novel mechanism, snake venom-metalloproteases-induced NETosis and tissue necrosis, through the PAR-1-ERK signaling cascade. Moreover, inhibition of snake venom-metalloproteases using Disulfiram reflects the reduced amount of NETs formation and tissue necrosis in pre-clinical models. Besides, I successfully isolated and evaluated the therapeutic applications of clinically important plant hydrolytic enzymes such as proteases and DNases on the snake venom-induced local tissue necrosis in pre-clinical models.
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Recipient of UGC-BSR fellowship for doctoral research, 2014 - 2020.
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DBT-RA Fellowship for post-doctoral research, 2023-present.
Dr. Adeyi AO
January 2025 - present
Visiting Faculty
akindeleo {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
Dr. Gayathri G
May 2025 - present
Postdoctoral Fellow
gayathrigopal29 {at} gmail {dot} com
With the keen interest in snake venom biologics, I joined EVL to extend my expertise into antibody discovery, working towards a better antidote against snake envenomation in India. I am also involved in developing a multiplex Later flow Immunoassay (LFIA) based detection kit to detect the Indian big four snakes aimed at minimizing the risk of unwanted antivenom administration and emphasizing the need for monovalent/monoclonal antivenoms for the effective management of snakebite deaths. During my Ph.D. at SASTRA University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, I gained experience in successfully developing and characterizing polyclonal antibodies in avian system against the big four snakes. I hold a bachelors in Biotechnology and master’s in Biopharmaceutical Technology from Anna University, Chennai.
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Recipient of DBT-BIRAC Senior Research Fellowship (2019-2021).
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Recipient of CSIR Senior Research Fellowship (2021-2023).
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Recipient of DBT-BioCARe Post-doctoral fellowship (2025-2028).
PhD Students
Vivek Suranse
June, 2019 - Present
PhD Scholar
viveksuranse {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I am a science enthusiast, dedicated to studying venomous creatures. I am focused on exploring venom evolution and study its relationship with ecology, cladistics, population genetics and phylogeography. I have primarily worked on scorpion phylogenetics, systematics and population genetics during my Master's at Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER-Pune). My main research interest is evolutionary venomics as it employs modern technology for better understanding the interdependence of evolution and venom. The insights from such studies better the prospects of designing more effective antivenins and benefit mankind.
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Recipient of the DST INSPIRE Student Fellowship 2012-17
Paulomi Dam
February, 2020 - Present
PhD Scholar
paulomidam {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I have always been intrigued by the great extent of phenotypic diversity observed in natural populations and the evolutionary history of life. Venomous snakes are one such group of enigmatic creatures equally revered and feared by people. Although infamous for causing high mortality in humans, they are also of immense importance to environment, food web and medicine. My research focuses on investigating the phylogenetic and phylogeographic history and population genetic structure of medically important Indian snakes using advanced molecular techniques to unravel the influence of historical processes in shaping their genetic diversity.
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Recipient of Prime Minister's Research Fellowship, January 2022
Mihir Kumar
January, 2023 - Present
PhD Scholar
mihirkumar {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I completed my B.Sc. (Honours) in Zoology from Ramjas College, University of Delhi and Masters in Zoology with Endocrinology specialization from University of Lucknow. My interests lie in broad field of evolutionary biology and i am curious about the evolution of arthropods venom and venom apparatus. Besides Research, I am interested in teaching.
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Recipient of the DST INSPIRE AWARD (SEATS) 2014
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Recipient of the DST INSPIRE AWARD 2017 - 2022
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Recipient of the CST-UP SUMMER RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP 2022 - 2023
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Qualified the CSIR-UGC-NET JRF fellowship in June 2022
Samuel Itang
August, 2024 - Present
PhD Scholar
samuelitang {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I hold a BSc in Zoology and Environmental Biology from the University of Calabar, Nigeria, and an MSc in Zoology with a specialization in Animal Physiology from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. My curiosity lies in the proteomics and transcriptomics of snake venoms, especially focusing on medically significant species in Nigeria. I am particularly intrigued by understanding the variation in venom composition across Nigeria's diverse ecological zones. Additionally, I am concerned about the challenge of inefficient and costly antivenoms in Nigeria, and I am driven to contribute to finding solutions to this pressing issue.
Integrated PhD Students
Arpan Samanta
June, 2022 - Present
Integrated PhD Student
arpansamanta {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
Wildlife documentaries captivated me from an early age. In the course of time, I developed a fascination for venomous animals, especially snakes - the limbless slithering marvels of the animal kingdom. In EVL, I want to know more about these exciting creatures and their complex venom and hope to work on developing improved antivenom treatments.
Yashika Kukreja
June, 2024 - Present
Integrated PhD Student
yashikak {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
From the early days of my academic journey, immunology has always captivated me with its intricate mechanisms and implications for human health. This led my fascination evolve into a passionate pursuit to harness the power of immunotherapeutic innovations in snakebite management. In EVL, I wish to discover and develop antibodies specific to snake venoms and find tangible solutions to alleviate human suffering. Beyond the lab, I find balance and inspiration in martial arts and dance. These pursuits not only cultivate discipline and resilience but also provide creative outlets that complement my scientific endeavors.
External PhD Students
Ajinkya Unawane
April, 2021 - Present
External PhD Student (University of Pune)
ajinkyau {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I am a zoologist at heart. For the past 18 years, I have been actively rescuing snakes and other wild animals. At the Evolutionary Venomics Lab, I aspire to understand species phylogenetics and phylogeography of endemic pit vipers of the Western Ghats. I also hope to unravel the role of ecology and environment in shaping the venom cocktails of these enigmatic serpents.
Eric Witte
April, 2021 - Present
Co-advised PhD Student (University of California)
ewitte {at} ucsc {dot} edu
I am an evolutionary biologist who is fascinated by how organisms can succeed in new environments. I am researching lionfishes, a venomous group of fishes that are invasive to the Mediterranean and Western Atlantic regions. Lionfishes use venom as a chemical defence. I hope to explore the following questions: How does venom production contribute to their success in the invasion? How does their venom use change in their new environment?
I am also a passionate teacher and aim to make evolutionary biology accessible and fun for students of all ages!
Navanita
October, 2023 - Present
External PhD Student
I am a passionate pharmacognosist dedicated to exploring the therapeutic potential of natural products. My current research focuses on discovering bioactive phytoconstituents as inhibitors against medically significant snake venom. Additionally, I am intrigued by the potential of recombinant antibody discovery as a novel approach to counteract venom toxicity. Beyond the lab, I find joy in gardening, air-dry clay doll making, painting, and cooking. My approach to life mirrors that of a panda: I research, eat, and sleep while thriving in creativity and balance.
sunsk1999 {at} gmail {dot} com
Project Staff
Salil Javed V P
November, 2021 - Present
Project Associate
salilv {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
The concept of evolution has intrigued me from the moment I heard about it. A major driving force of my higher education was the pursuit of finding out as much as I can about this phenomenon. The interesting and complicated evolutionary history of venom has particularly fascinated me. During my time at EVL, I will be looking at the evolution of venom in different Centipede (a relatively neglected group of venomous animals in India) taxa, and Hymenopterans. I have a Master's in biology from NISER, Bhubaneswar
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Recipient of the DST INSPIRE Student Fellowship 2015-20
Muralidhar Nayak M
February 2022 - present
Senior Research Associate
muralidharn {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I am a Chemist, Graduated from Pondicherry University. I have more than 10 years of experience in Spectroscopy and Analytical fields. I have analyzed various samples (eg. crude extracts, purified compounds from organic synthesis, and biological sources), by using instrumentations like LC-MS, GC-MS, FT-IR/ Raman, Elemental analyzer, DSC, UV-Visible spectrophotometer, Microscopy, and Time Resolved Fluorescence. At EVL, I am involved in venom proteins characterization and quantitation by Mass Spectrometry analysis.
Prasad Gond
June, 2022 - Present
Curator, Venom Institute for Snakebite Health and Advanced Medicine
prasadgond {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
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Glenda M
August, 2024 - Present
Project Assistant
mglenda {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
As a Project Assistant with a postgraduate degree in Microbiology, I am working on recombinant antibody expression for snake bite therapy. My role involves leveraging advanced molecular biology techniques to develop and optimize recombinant antibodies, which are crucial for creating effective and targeted antivenoms. I collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the successful expression and purification of these antibodies. My work not only aims to save lives but also to advance the scientific understanding of venom-neutralizing antibodies.
Semanti Das
August, 2024 - Present
Project Assistant
semantidas {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
Academically inclined and inspired as a student, constantly seeking newer areas to explore, I am a project assistant specializing in the expression of recombinant antibodies for snakebite therapeutics. My role involves working on the production and characterization of these critical biomolecules, contributing to the development of effective treatments for snakebite envenoming. Under the guidance and support of my fellow labmates and seniors, we try to optimize expression systems, purify recombinant proteins, and analyze their functionality. Through my work, I aim to improve knowledge and utilisation of biotechnological remedies for venomous bites and hope to improve world health.
Sweta Thakur
August, 2024 - Present
Project Associate
swetas {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I hold a Bachelor's in Medical Laboratory Technology and a Master's in Microbiology, which have equipped me with a deep understanding of biological systems. In addition to my academic background, my experience as a Genetic Toxicologist in a preclinical organization has further honed my expertise in evaluating biological impacts. My passion for nature and wildlife fuels my curiosity about the therapeutic potential of venoms, a field I am eager to explore. This unique intersection of interests, coupled with my professional experience, drives my enthusiasm for discovering innovative applications in medical research.
Yashaswini Sree R
August, 2024 - Present
Project Assistant
yashaswinir {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
At the risk of adding labels, I'm an aspiring evolutionary biologist with a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Zoology and Microbiology. When I'm not trying to recombinantly express snake venom toxins, I work on web-venom dynamics in spiders. I'm also studying how sociality in spiders influences their venom composition. I owe my wildlife enthusiast awakening to EVL and Mary Oliver, and in my free time, I'm definitely not out looking for critters. I will not mention spiders a third time.
Ritika Singh
December, 2024 - Present
Project Assistant
ritikasingh1 {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I spend my days wrangling data—and occasionally wrangling venomous creatures (with gloves, of course). With a background in forensic science, I know how to spot a clue, analyze a mystery substance, and tell if that suspicious-looking snake is just moody or actually dangerous.
Whether it's labeling vials of venom or helping decode nature’s most toxic secrets, I bring curiosity, caution, and a healthy respect for anything with fangs. Equal parts science nerd and crime lab sleuth, here is proof that you can mix danger with data and still make it home without getting bit (most of the time).
When not in the lab or field, I enjoys crime documentaries, odd facts about spiders, and pretending to be calm around centipedes.
Harish Selvaraj
March, 2025 - Present
Project Assistant
rharishs1 {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
I am a passionate biotechnologist dedicated to advancing innovative therapeutics for snakebite envenoming. My research here in EVL explores the therapeutic potential of small-molecule inhibitors as alternative or adjunct treatments to conventional antivenoms. Additionally, I investigate the intricate mechanisms behind venom toxin synergism unraveling how combined toxin interactions enhance lethality and tissue damage to identify novel intervention strategies. Furthermore, I study geographical venom variations and their impact on antivenom efficacy, aiming to develop more effective, accessible, and targeted treatments. By integrating biotechnology, toxicology, and drug discovery, I strive to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and life saving therapies for snakebite victims worldwide.
Admin
Surbhi Saxena
August 2023 - Present
Program Manager
surbhisaxena {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
Babitha Ram
December 2024 - Present
Secretarial Assistant
Babitharam {at} iisc {dot} ac {dot} in
Staff
Ramanna
April, 2023 - Present
Lab Assistant
Manju
June, 2024 - Present
Lab Assistant