Somaiya Vidyavihar University
Dr. Maushmi S. Kumar
Head | Center for Drug Design and Discovery
Professional experience: 18 years
Associate Professor and Coordinator- MSc. Chemical Biology and Drug Design.
Research area:
Marine Algal Biotechnology, Marine Metabolomics, Small Molecule Kinase Inhibitors, Molecular Targeted Therapy in Cancer, Neuroprotective Agents Development, Preclinical Drug Evaluation
Ms. Nilam Bhusare
PhD Scholar | SVU-JRF
I am from the “wine capital of India”, Nashik. I have a master’s degree in pharmaceutical chemistry, from Savitribai Phule Pune University. To take a deep dive into research, I joined the Center for Drug Design and Discovery as a Junior Research Fellow in 2021. My research deals with heterocycles targeting cellular pathways involved in cancer. In my spare time, I love to explore new places.
Ms. Anushree Gade
PhD Scholar | SERB POWER- SRF
I was born and raised in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra. In 2022, I completed my Master’s in Biotechnology from the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Raebareli. Thereafter, I joined the Center for Drug Design and Discovery as a Junior Research Fellow on a SERB-POWER funded project and subsequently commenced my PhD journey in July 2023. My research interest lies in exploring the effect of marine bioactive compounds on neurodegenerative disorders. Along with science, I also enjoy painting and playing badminton.
Ms. Shruti Gawde
PhD Scholar
I was born and raised in the vibrant city of Mumbai, where I completed my Master's in Microbiology from Mumbai University. My academic journey further continued with a Diploma in Clinical Research from St. Xavier's College, Mumbai. In 2023, I began my PhD journey at the Center for Drug Design and Discovery, where my research focuses on exploring the rich, untapped potential of seaweeds. I am particularly fascinated by marine bioactives and their therapeutic applications, which could revolutionize modern medicine. Outside of my academic pursuits, I am an avid traveler, reader and wildlife enthusiast.
Ms. Aditi Agarwal
PhD Scholar | SVU-JRF
I hail from the “City of Dreams”, Mumbai. I hold a Master’s degree in Life Sciences (Applied Medicine), from St. Xavier’s College, Autonomous, Mumbai. I joined the Center for Drug Design and Discovery, in July 2023 as a Junior Research Fellow. My research is focused on evaluating the therapeutic potential of natural products in treating melanoma. In addition to studying cancer biology, I have a passion for forensic science and I enjoy crime scene investigation.
Ms. Pratima Pandey
PhD Scholar | SVU-JRF
I was born and brought up in Mumbai, the "City of Dreams," where I pursued my Master's degree in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry at The Institute of Science, Dr. Homi Bhabha State University, Mumbai. In 2023, I joined the Center for Drug Design and Discovery at Somaiya Vidyavihar University as a Junior Research Fellow. My research focuses on investigating natural products for their potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Apart from research, I enjoy playing chess and practicing photography.
Mr. Shivam D Taralkar
RGSTC-JRF
I am from Nashik and completed my Master’s degree in Pharmacology from Bharati Vidyapeeth’s College of Pharmacy, Navi Mumbai, in 2024. Currently, I work as a Junior Research Fellow at the Center for Drug Drug Design and Discovery, on a RGSTC funded project. My research is centered on exploring the use of seaweeds as biostimulants in agricultural practices. In addition to my academic pursuits, I enjoy playing chess and volleyball.
Ms. Shruti Kharat
PhD Scholar
Born and raised in Mumbai, I discovered my passion for science amidst the city's energetic pace. I completed my Master’s in Biotechnology from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai (Autonomous), and worked across research institutes to explore my scientific interests. In 2023, I began my PhD journey at SIRAC focusing on immunohematology and the early diagnosis of rare bleeding disorders. My goal is to develop a point-of-care diagnostic kit that brings lab innovation closer to clinical use. Outside the lab, I’m an avid reader who finds inspiration in people, stories, and the world around me.