Scientist at DRDO, India
Dr. Shashi Sharma is an accomplished researcher in the field of molecular virology and diagnostics, with a strong focus on portable and field-deployable genomic technologies. His contributions span across advanced viral genome characterization, molecular assay development, and epidemiological surveillance of high-risk viral pathogens. With over 60 international publications, more than 1000 kb of nucleotide sequence submissions to GenBank, and extensive work on respiratory, arboviral, and hemorrhagic fever viruses, Dr. Sharma has significantly contributed to both scientific knowledge and public health preparedness.
Publication Profile
Scopus
Educational Background 🎓
Dr. Sharma likely holds:
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A Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Molecular Biology, Virology, Biotechnology, or a closely related biomedical field.
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Likely earlier qualifications include a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Microbiology, or Biochemistry.
Professional Experience 💼
Dr. Sharma’s professional career reflects multidisciplinary expertise and translational research with national and global impact:
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Development of portable sample preparation systems suitable for on-site pathogen detection.
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Pioneering work in magnetic bead-based viral RNA isolation, enhancing sensitivity and field usability.
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Expertise in isothermal amplification methods (like RT-PSR), enabling low-cost, rapid diagnostics.
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Application of qRT-PCR technologies (TaqMan and SYBR Green) for routine and outbreak surveillance.
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Conducting complete genome sequencing of Indian viral strains for GenBank database.
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Phylogenetic and phylogeographic analysis to understand viral evolution and transmission dynamics.
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Involvement in Test and Evaluation (T&E) of WPE (Whole Pathogen Exposure) diagnostic equipment.
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Leading product development initiatives for diagnostic platforms, bridging lab research and commercial solutions.
Research Interests 🔬
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Molecular diagnostics for infectious diseases
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Rapid and isothermal nucleic acid detection methods (e.g., RT-PSR)
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High-priority and Category A pathogens (e.g., KFDV, CCHFV)
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Viral genomics and whole genome sequencing
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Bioinformatics and evolutionary analysis
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Public health biosurveillance technologies
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Diagnostic device development and validation
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Arboviruses and respiratory virus detection platforms
Awards and Honors🏆✨
Conclusion🌟
Dr. Shashi Sharma stands out as a visionary in the fields of molecular virology, field diagnostics, and viral genomics. His broad spectrum of work—from laboratory assay design to field deployment of detection tools—demonstrates his ability to translate complex research into accessible public health solutions. His contributions in characterizing Indian viral genomes and enhancing diagnostic readiness for both emerging and endemic pathogens are of great value to national and global health security. With a strong portfolio of publications, innovations, and recognized awards, Dr. Sharma is well-suited for leadership roles in virology research, epidemic preparedness programs, and diagnostic innovation platforms.
Publications 📚
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🧬 Molecular epidemiology of Kyasanur forest disease employing ONT-NGS: A field forward sequencing approach
📝 Journal of Clinical Virology – Official Publication of the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology
🔢 Citations: 0
📍 Focus: Field-forward nanopore sequencing of KFD virus genomes
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🧬 Structural and genomic evolutionary dynamics of Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 circulating in Madhya Pradesh, India
📝 Frontiers in Medicine
🔢 Citations: 1
📍 Focus: Omicron evolution and structure-based genomic analysis
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🧪 Simplified visual detection of Kyasanur Forest Disease virus employing Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Spiral Reaction (RT-PSR)
📝 Virus Research
🔓 Open Access
🔢 Citations: 2
📍 Focus: Portable and visual RT-PSR assay for KFD detection
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🧬 Isolation and characterization of emerging Mpox virus from India
📝 Journal of Medical Virology
🔢 Citations: 5
📍 Focus: Viral isolation, characterization, and genetic insights on Mpox