Leadership
Director: Dr. Yogesh Shouche
Dr. Yogesh Shouche is a leading Indian scientist known for his foundational contributions to microbial genomics, metagenomics, molecular systematics, and bioinformatics. Over the course of his distinguished career, he has been instrumental in advancing genomics-based research in India and in establishing state-of-the-art platforms for high-throughput sequencing and microbial diversity analysis.
Earlier Experience and Scientific Contributions
Prior to his current role as Director of SKAN Research Trust, Dr. Shouche held senior scientific leadership positions at premier national research institutions, where he led large multidisciplinary programs in environmental microbiology, human microbiome research, and molecular taxonomy. Notably, he played a key role in establishing the National Centre for Microbial Resource (NCMR), where he served in a senior leadership capacity, contributing significantly to its growth as a national repository and centre of excellence for microbial resources and genomics research.
He has been instrumental in strengthening India’s microbial culture collections, developing genomic databases, and integrating advanced sequencing technologies into microbial systematics and biodiversity research. His scientific work has substantially advanced understanding of microbial diversity across diverse ecosystems—including soil, marine, extreme environments, and the human microbiome—and has enabled applications in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Shouche has authored numerous publications in reputed international journals and has been actively involved in mentoring doctoral scholars, postdoctoral fellows, and young investigators, thereby contributing to the development of India’s genomics and bioinformatics ecosystem.
Awards and Honours
In recognition of his scientific excellence and leadership, Dr. Shouche has received multiple national awards and professional distinctions. He has served on scientific advisory panels, national task forces, and expert committees in biotechnology, genomics, and biosafety. His contributions to building research infrastructure and advancing microbial genomics have earned him wide recognition within the Indian and international scientific communities.
Through his vision and leadership, Dr. Shouche continues to promote rigorous, collaborative research that bridges fundamental science with translational and societal impact.