Dr Ajit Kumar Shasany

Director, CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow

Dr Ajit Kumar Shasany, FNAAS, FNASc, currently serves as the Director of CSIR–National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow. Prior to this, he held leadership positions as Director of ICAR, National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi, and Chief Scientist at CSIR–CIMAP, Lucknow. With a PhD in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from IARI and a distinguished academic record, Dr Shasany has made pioneering contributions to plant genomics, metabolic engineering, and bioprospection, particularly in medicinal and aromatic plants. His work on the genome sequencing of Ocimum sanctum (Holy Basil) stands as a milestone in Indian plant science. Over his career, he has published more than 140 research papers, holds over 100 granted patents globally (including 51 US patents), and has guided numerous PhD and MSc students.

Equally committed to societal impact, Dr Shasany has spearheaded the dissemination of aromatic crop technologies to farmers across Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, enhancing rural livelihoods through the Aroma Mission and entrepreneurship development. His innovations in mint and Artemisia annua cultivation have transformed India’s essential oil sector. A recipient of several national honours, including multiple CSIR Technology Awards, the Samanta Chandra Sekhara Award, and the Prof. Umakant Sinha Memorial Award, he continues to serve on key national scientific committees and advisory boards. While his primary contributions are scientific, his grassroots initiatives have fostered inclusive development and community empowerment.