Jyoti Maharjan, PhD
Coordinator
Chief Scientific Officer
Tel:+ 977 1 5253715 ext 256
Email: [email protected]
The molecular Biotechnology Unit, NAST is one of the pioneers on DNA based research since its inception in 2002. It is established with the aim to use molecular and biotechnological tools for conservation, characterization, and sustainable utilization of high value biodiversity of Nepal. The major research focus of our unit is disease diagnosis using PCR technology, exploration of beneficial microbes, Genetic Diversity characterization and DNA Barcoding of threatened flora & fauna and microorganisms, fungi and microbes.
Moreover, the unit is also jointly carrying out the research activities on disease diagnosis, genetic diversity assessments and DNA barcoding of threatened fauna of Nepal in collaboration with other research institutions, leading organizations in nature conservation, universities and research scholars.
The current ongoing research projects of the unit are the following.
• DNA barcoding and characterization of genetic diversity of selected high value medicinal plants CITES enlisted species, endemic species and plant species prioritized for protection, cultivation and research and development by Nepal Government, Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation.
• Discovery of a potent protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitor from the medicinal plants of Nepal.
• Exploration of microorganisms especially hot spring thermophiles and soil microbes for production of industrially important enzymes and other bioactive compounds.
Team Members
1. Dr. Jyoti Maharjan,([email protected]; [email protected])
3. Ms Neesha Rana, [email protected])
4. Dr. Deegendra Khadka,([email protected])
5. Dr. Ram Chandra Paudel, ([email protected]; [email protected])