DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY
Academic Focus:
The Department of Botany at USTM offers comprehensive academic programs including Undergraduate, Post Graduate, and Ph.D. degrees. Following the NEP 2020 syllabus approved by the UGC, the department is supported by 11 faculty members catering to a student strength of 117 UG/PG students and 34 PhD scholars. Students can specialize in six distinct areas: Cytogenetics, Plant Breeding and Molecular Biology; Biochemistry and Plant Physiology; Plant Taxonomy; Plant Ecology; Microbiology; and Mycology and Plant Pathology.
Holistic Learning and Innovation
The curriculum is designed for practical exposure, making field projects and study tours mandatory. Beyond traditional academics, the department provides remedial classes in Yoga, Wellness, IT skills, and soft skills, alongside specialized NET coaching (5-6 classes per week). A major highlight of the department is its focus on innovation, having developed 13 distinct prototypes, such as algal biofertilizers, herbal hand sanitizers, and smart urban alga trees.
Research Excellence and Achievements
The department maintains a robust research profile with more than hundreds of research/review papers, 55 book chapters, and 17 edited books published. Notable research projects include biodiversity impact studies funded by the European Forest Institute (Finland) and bioprospecting projects sponsored by the DST, Government of India. The department also holds 4 granted/published patents, including processes for herbal sanitizers and bioweedicides.
Student Success and Placements
Students consistently excel in national-level examinations, with numerous CSIR-NET, SLET, GATE, MTET, and ATET qualifiers. Graduates have secured placements in academia, government departments, and industry, while many pursue higher studies at prestigious institutions like the University of Dublin or NEHU.
Salient Features
- All-inclusive NEP curriculum
- Up-to-date syllabus content
- Smart ICT classrooms
- Advance laboratory facilities
- Experienced and 100% Ph. D. qualified faculties
- Research oriented teaching and practices
- Free coaching for CSIR/UGC NET/SLET
- Students’ placement support
- Strong career prospects
