Meenal Kowshik

Prof. Meenal Kowshik received her M.Sc in Microbiology from Goa University. She worked on the biological synthesis of metallic and metal sulfide nanoparticles using yeasts at Agharkar Research Institute, and obtained her Ph.D. degree from Pune University. Subsequently, she joined Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani-K. K. Birla Goa Campus, and is currently Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences. Her research interests include studies on hydroxyapatite based nanocomposites for bio-imaging and gene delivery applications in prokaryotic as well as eukaryotic systems; currently the focus is on delivery of siRNA in stem cells for regenerative medicine and gene delivery for therapy in muscular dystrophy; synthesis of biocompatible chitin and cellulose based bilayer scaffolds for tissue engineering applications; studies on bio-functionalization of silver based nanocomposites with antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity for environmental and biomedical applications. She has published more than 60 papers in peer reviewed International and National journals, guided postdoctoral, PhD and MSc students for research and has obtained research funding from various funding agencies. On the administrative front, Prof. Meenal has held positions of Head of Department, Sciences; Associate Dean, Sponsored Research and Consultancy Division at BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa Campus, and she is presently officiating as Dean Administration.