Kumud Bala | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Excellence in Research Award

Published on by Neuroscientists

Prof. Kumud Bala | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Kumud Bala, Amity University, India.

Prof. Kumud Bala is a seasoned academic and researcher in the fields of biotechnology and immunology, with a rich educational background that includes a Ph.D. from Patna University in collaboration with AIIMS. She has over 25 years of teaching and research experience, primarily at Amity University, Noida, where she currently holds the position of Professor at the Amity Institute of Biotechnology. Her professional journey has been marked by consistent progression, interdisciplinary teaching, and impactful research. She has contributed significantly to biotechnology education through curriculum development, student mentorship, and translational research projects that align closely with real-world biomedical challenges.

Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Kumud Bala’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in the life sciences at Patna University, where she earned her B.Sc. in Zoology in 1992, followed by an M.Sc. in Immunology in 1995. Her passion for understanding the intricate mechanisms of biological systems led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Biotechnology, a collaborative program between Patna University and AIIMS, which she successfully completed in 2003. This solid educational background laid the groundwork for her long-standing academic and research career in the field of biotechnology and immunology.

Professional Endeavors in Higher Education

Prof. Bala has cultivated a distinguished teaching and research career over nearly three decades, beginning in 1996 as a Lecturer at St. Columba’s College, Hazaribag, where she contributed for over a decade. She later joined Amity University, Noida, where she steadily rose through the academic ranks—from Senior Lecturer at the Amity Institute of Advanced Training and Research to Expert Faculty at the Amity Institute of Pharmacy, and eventually to Assistant Professor III in 2009. Her dedication and academic excellence led to her promotion as Associate Professor in 2013, and she currently serves as a Professor at the Amity Institute of Biotechnology since 2019. Her professional journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to knowledge dissemination and academic leadership.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Bala’s research primarily revolves around biotechnology and immunology, with deep insights into molecular mechanisms of disease, therapeutic interventions, and diagnostic innovations. Her work often bridges interdisciplinary domains, particularly in translational research aimed at addressing immunological disorders and enhancing biotechnological applications in healthcare. Through her roles in academia, she has significantly contributed to shaping curricula, mentoring research scholars, and advancing scientific inquiry in life sciences. Her scholarly output reflects a commitment to both foundational and applied research in biomedical biotechnology.

Accolades and Recognition

While explicit accolades are not detailed in the record, Prof. Bala’s rise through academic ranks and continued tenure at a leading private university in India—Amity University—indicates a high level of institutional recognition. Her roles have involved strategic responsibilities in curriculum development, research coordination, and interdisciplinary teaching, underscoring her reputation as a trusted educator and researcher. The trust placed in her for long-term roles across diverse faculties also reflects professional respect and recognition among peers.

Impact and Influence on Biotechnology Education

Prof. Bala has profoundly influenced biotechnology education in India through her dynamic teaching methodologies and innovative research projects. Her involvement in training students from pharmacy, advanced research, and biotechnology backgrounds positions her at the center of a multidisciplinary educational landscape. Her ability to integrate academic theory with practical applications has shaped the perspectives of numerous undergraduates, postgraduates, and research aspirants, many of whom have pursued impactful careers in biomedical sciences and allied fields.

Legacy in Research and Mentorship

A hallmark of Prof. Bala’s career is her enduring legacy as a mentor and scientific guide. Her role in mentoring early-career scientists and guiding them through complex research problems stands as one of her most valuable contributions to academia. Her collaborative ethos, combined with her scientific rigor, has fostered a culture of excellence and innovation. Her efforts have ensured that research in biotechnology not only thrives in academic settings but also responds to real-world health challenges.

Future Vision and Continuing Contributions

Looking ahead, Prof. Kumud Bala continues to be an influential voice in biotechnology and immunology, actively participating in the academic and scientific community at Amity University and beyond. With the growing importance of biotechnology in global healthcare, she is uniquely positioned to lead future projects focused on interdisciplinary research, biomedical innovation, and policy-oriented science education. Her unwavering commitment to scientific growth and mentorship guarantees that her impact will be felt for generations to come.

Publication

1. Morphological examination of ear: a study of an Indian population – PK Chattopadhyay, S Bhatia – 2009


2. Herbal contraceptive: an overview – K Bala, M Arya, DP Katare – 2014


3. Adverse effect of combined oral contraceptive pills – A Shukla, R Jamwal, K Bala – 2017


4. Dealing Wildlife Offences in India: Role of the Hair as Physical Evidence – VT V Sahajpal, SP Goyal, Kumudbala Singh – 2009


5. In vitro antioxidant activity of defatted seed extracts of Ocimum sanctum on rat PC-12 cells and its inhibitory efficacy with receptors of oral squamous cell carcinoma – Y Sharma, M Bharadwaj, N Srivastava, A Kaur, M Kumar, M Agarwal, … – 2020


6. In-vitro antiproliferative efficacy of Abrus precatorius seed extracts on cervical carcinoma – A Kaur, Y Sharma, A Kumar, MP Ghosh, K Bala – 2022


7. Antioxidant activity of polyphenolic flavonoid of stem of Nicotiana tabacum – Y Sharma, A Nagar, NS Srivastava, K Bala – 2017


8. Comparative study of different parts of fruits of Musa Sp. on the basis of their antioxidant activity – Y Sharma, A Chauhan, K Bala, A Nagar – 2016


9. Preclinical assessment of stem of Nicotiana tabacum on excision wound model – Y Sharma, A Kaur, R Bhardwaj, N Srivastava, M Lal, S Madan, K Bala – 2021


10. Nosocomial infection by non-fermenting gram negative bacilli in tertiary care hospital: Screening and cure – R Wadhwa, Y Sharma, RP Upadhyay, K Bala – 2016

 

Conclusion

Prof. Kumud Bala’s career reflects a strong blend of academic rigor, research excellence, and educational leadership. Through her deep involvement in immunology and biotechnology, she has shaped the academic paths of numerous students and contributed to advancing science education in India. Her enduring commitment to scientific inquiry, mentorship, and innovation positions her as a respected figure in her field. Moving forward, her work promises to continue influencing both academic advancement and practical healthcare solutions, reinforcing her role as a pivotal contributor to the growth of life sciences in higher education.

 

Aggrey Osogo | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Research Article Award

Published on by Neuroscientists

Mr. Aggrey Osogo | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Research Article Award

Mr. AGGREY OSOGO,  KIBABII UNIVERSITY, Kenya.

Aggrey Keya Osogo is a Kenyan plant virologist and Principal Technologist with a robust academic and professional background in plant pathology and crop protection. Beginning his academic journey in Vihiga County, he progressively advanced through diploma, higher diploma, and bachelor’s programs before earning a Master of Science in Crop Protection from MMUST. He is currently finalizing his Ph.D. research focused on the molecular characterization of common bean viruses using advanced ‘omics’ technologies.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Aggrey Keya Osogo began his academic journey with a strong foundational education in Vihiga County, Kenya. He completed his primary education at Kaptik Primary School (1978–1985) before proceeding to Mbale High School, where he obtained a Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in 1989 with a commendable C+ grade. Driven by a passion for biology and plants, he pursued further studies in applied sciences, completing a Diploma in Applied Biology at Kenya Polytechnic in 1993 and later enhancing his credentials with a Higher Diploma in Applied Biology at Eldoret Polytechnic in 2002. His early academic journey laid a firm groundwork for his future specialization in plant pathology and virology.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Osogo’s professional path is marked by consistent growth and commitment to laboratory sciences and academic instruction. Starting his career as a Laboratory Technologist in the Botany Department of Moi University in 1997, he gained vital hands-on experience in biological sciences. Over the years, he advanced to roles of increased responsibility, serving as a Senior Laboratory Technologist at Egerton University and later at MMUST. Since 2015, he has held the position of Chief Technologist at Kibabii University, where he also serves as a part-time lecturer. His teaching portfolio spans a range of botany-focused courses including plant taxonomy, microbiology, plant pathology, and botanical techniques, showcasing his expertise and devotion to nurturing future scientists.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

A dedicated researcher in plant pathology, Mr. Osogo’s scientific focus lies in virology, with significant work on crop protection and virus identification in staple crops. He holds a Master of Science in Crop Protection from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), where he researched the occurrence, distribution, and virulence of cassava brown streak viruses. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at MMUST, his thesis emphasizes the molecular characterization of common bean viruses using cutting-edge ‘omics’ and high-throughput technologies. His research is crucial for developing disease-resistant crop varieties and ensuring food security for smallholder farmers in Western Kenya.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Although modest in public acclaim, Mr. Osogo’s career reflects quiet excellence and dedication to academic and research excellence. His steady rise from a laboratory technologist to a chief technologist and respected lecturer in Kenyan universities is a testament to his competence, perseverance, and deep-rooted passion for plant virology. His teaching engagements at both MMUST and Kibabii University have earned him respect among colleagues and students alike, establishing him as a role model in laboratory and field-based scientific instruction.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his extensive work in teaching, mentoring, and virological research, Mr. Osogo has had a lasting impact on Kenya’s academic and agricultural landscape. By identifying and understanding viral threats in major crops such as cassava and beans, he contributes directly to sustainable agriculture and improved yields for smallholder farmers. His influence extends beyond the classroom, as his research plays a crucial role in guiding disease management policies and enhancing diagnostic capacities in the region.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Mr. Osogo aspires to become a lead scientist in plant virology, a goal well within reach given his ongoing contributions and academic progression. His legacy will be one of mentorship, scientific rigor, and a tireless quest to protect crops from viral diseases. As he nears completion of his Ph.D., he is positioned to take on greater roles in regional and international research collaborations, policy formulation, and capacity building in crop protection science.

🔬 Passion for Plant Science

Outside his formal roles, Mr. Osogo maintains a personal passion for botanizing, reflecting a deep, intrinsic love for plant life and exploration. This hobby not only complements his profession but also fuels his innovative thinking and observational skills in research. His ability to blend curiosity with scientific methodology makes him a standout figure in Kenya’s plant pathology field.

Publication

Title: Biodegradation of carbofuran in soils within Nzoia River Basin, Kenya
Authors: DO Onunga, IO Kowino, AN Ngigi, A Osogo, F Orata, ZM Getenga, …
Year: 2015


Title: Antimicrobial Coumarins from the Oyster Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus (Agaricomycetes), from Kenya
Authors: et al. Lilechi
Year: 2016


Title: Occurrence and distribution of begomoviruses infecting cassava in Western Kenya
Authors: MN Were, B Mukoye, AK Osogo, BC Mangeni, PAA Nyamwamu, …
Year: 2016


Title: Occurrence and distribution of cassava brown streak viruses in Western Kenya
Authors: AK Osogo, J Muoma, P Nyamwamu, CN Omuse, HK Were
Year: 2014


Title: Mapping of angular leaf spot disease hotspot areas in western Kenya towards its management
Authors: RK Leitich, W Arinaitwe, B Mukoye, DO Omayio, AK Osogo, HK Were, …
Year: 2016


Title: Distribution and biological characterization of potato virus y in Kenya
Authors: N Paul, M Benard, A Osogo
Year: 2014


Title: Occurrence, distribution, incidence, and severity of common bean viral diseases in resource-limited smallholder farms of western Kenya
Authors: AK Osogo, F Muyekho, P Okoth, H Were, G Ayaaga
Year: 2025


Title: Deciphering common bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.) microbiome assemblages reveal mechanistic insights into host-pathogen-microbiome interactions
Authors: AK Osogo, F Muyekho, H Were, P Okoth
Year: 2025


Title: Comprehensive metabolomic profiling of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) reveals biomarkers involved in viral disease detection and monitoring
Authors: AK Osogo, C Wekesa, FN Muyekho, HK Were, P Okoth
Year: 2025


Title: Genome-Wide Metatranscriptomics Crosswalk of Diseased Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L) Unravels Critical Metabolic Pathways Involved in Plant Defense Mechanisms
Authors: AK Osogo, BS Sarkar, FN Muyekho, HK Were, P Okoth
Year: 2025

🏁 Conclusion

Aggrey Keya Osogo’s career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to plant virology and academic excellence. His progression from technologist to researcher and educator reflects both deep scientific commitment and impactful service to the agricultural sector. With a strong foundation, impactful research, and ongoing doctoral work, he is well-poised to become a leading voice in plant pathology not only in Kenya but across the region. His contributions are pivotal in strengthening food security and inspiring the next generation of plant scientists.