Dr. Ashish Kumar Singhi | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ashish Kumar Singh has garnered substantial professional experience in various facets of agricultural research and nematode management. Since July 2022, he has been working as a Scientist (Senior Scale) at ICAR-Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora. In this role, Dr. Singh focuses on nematode biodiversity assessment, nematode management under protected cultivation, insect pest management, and entomopathogenic nematodes. He also delves into bacterial genomics, white grub gut bacterial metagenomics, and the long-term impact of fertilization on soil nematodes, examining nematodes as indicators of soil health. Before his current position, from July 2018 to July 2022, Dr. Singh served as a Scientist at the same institution. His contributions during this period were crucial in advancing the understanding and management of nematodes and other related agricultural issues. In July 2018, Dr. Singh attended the 108th Foundation Course for Agricultural Research Service (FOCARS) at the ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad. This three-month training program was designed to enhance the competencies of research management through various components and modules, equipping Dr. Singh with essential skills and knowledge for his scientific career. Dr. Singh’s professional journey reflects his dedication to improving agricultural practices and managing nematode-related challenges. His expertise and research continue to play a significant role in the field of agricultural science, particularly in the areas of nematode management and soil health.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Ashish Kumar Singh has received numerous awards and honors throughout his academic and professional career, reflecting his significant contributions to the field of nematology and agricultural research. In February 2022, he was honored with the “Best Oral Presentation” award by the Phytopathological Society of India, New Delhi. This recognition was for presenting a research paper at the National Symposium on “Recent Trends in Phytopathology to Address Emerging Challenges for Achieving Food Security.” His outstanding presentation highlighted his research’s relevance and impact in addressing phytopathological challenges. Dr. Singh also won the “First Prize” from the State Department of Uttarakhand for an institute tableau display on Republic Day, showcasing his commitment to community engagement and public education. In March 2022, he was recognized as the “Best Trainee” at a capacity-building workshop in Nematode taxonomy and a satellite symposium on Advances in Nematology, hosted by the Department of Zoology, CCS University, Meerut, in collaboration with DRDO. This award underscored his expertise and excellence in the specialized field of nematode taxonomy. His academic journey was marked by securing a “Junior Research Fellowship” from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, for pursuing an M.Sc. in Nematology from 2013 to 2015. He continued to excel by obtaining an “ICAR Senior Research Fellowship” from ICAR, New Delhi, for his Ph.D. studies in Nematology. Additionally, Dr. Singh was awarded the prestigious “IARI Meritorious Scholarship” from ICAR – Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, for his Ph.D. studies. Dr. Singh successfully passed the “National Eligibility Test (NET)” conducted by the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), New Delhi, further establishing his qualifications and readiness for a career in agricultural research. His research excellence was also recognized with the “Best Research Presentation Award” by the Nematological Society of India.