Dr. Santu K. S. is a zoologist, marine biologist, and aquaculture researcher with expertise in marine ecology, zooplankton taxonomy, molecular ecology, and coastal biodiversity conservation. She earned her Ph.D. from the Cochin University of Science and Technology, where her doctoral research focused on the biocoenosis of zooplankton, with particular emphasis on the morphotaxonomy and genetic characterization of copepods from the estuaries of Kerala. With over a decade of research experience, she has previously served as Govt. Guest in the Research Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture at St. Albert’s College (Autonomous) and in the Department of Zoology at MES Asmabi College.
Dr. Santu’s teaching and research interests span zoology, marine ecology, zooplankton taxonomy, molecular biology, microplastic pollution, aquaculture, and biodiversity conservation. She has authored several peer-reviewed publications and contributed over 85 nucleotide sequence submissions to GenBank, including 17 primary DNA barcode submissions, significantly advancing the understanding of copepod diversity and estuarine ecosystems.She is also actively engaged in studies on sustainable aquaculture, microalgal culture, and climate change mitigation in coastal ecosystems.
Dr. Santu serves as a member of the Pool of Experts for the Third World Ocean Assessment (WOA III) under the United Nations Regular Process, contributing as a writing team member and peer reviewer for global marine environmental assessments. Dr. Santu has successfully coordinated major academic events such as the Albertian Knowledge Summit (International seminar 2023, 2024, and 2025), National Science Day celebrations, World Ozone Day, Wildlife Conservation Week, and Zoo Exhibition – Discere. She has also organized seminars on the Indian Knowledge System, environmental conservation, and climate change awareness.
An active mentor and research guide, Dr. Santu has supervised numerous undergraduate research projects in aquaculture, microalgal culture, ornamental fish breeding, mangrove ecology, and microplastic pollution. Under her guidance, several student projects have received Best Paper and Best Poster Presentation Awards at international conferences, reflecting her commitment to fostering scientific inquiry and research excellence among students.Through her teaching, research, and outreach activities, Dr. Santu remains committed to advancing scientific knowledge, promoting environmental stewardship, and inspiring the next generation of zoologists and environmental scientists.
Email ID: santu@sacredheartcollege.ac.in
