About
Dr. Kumudani Bala Gautam is an accomplished forensic scientist and conservation biologist with expertise spanning forensic biology, wildlife forensics, population genetics, and molecular ecology. She began her research career in human forensics with the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL), focusing on serological tools for complex cases. She transitioned to wildlife forensics at the Wildlife Institute of India, where she has been instrumental in tackling wildlife crime across India through molecular analyses and genetic reference database development.
Her work has addressed diverse challenges, including wildlife-human conflicts and illegal wildlife trafficking, with a focus on species like monitor lizards and amphibians in the Himalayan region. Dr. Kumudani has a strong interest in phyloforensics, biogeography, phylogenetics, and community engagement, using participatory approaches to enhance conservation efforts. She has contributed to peer-reviewed publications (Nature Communication, International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, Cladistics, Oryx etc.), collaborated on international conservation projects, and actively organized workshops for enforcement agencies. Beyond research, she is passionate about outreach, mentoring students, and promoting awareness of wildlife conservation.
Professional Membership:
- Co-Chair of IUCN SSC Monitor Lizard Specialist Group
- Regional Chair of South Asia at IUCN SSC Monitor Lizard Specialist Group
- Member of American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFS)
Research Project Grants:
- Research Grant of £5953 from The Rufford Small Grants, United Kingdom (2022) on Combating Illegal Trade of Monitor Lizard through Molecular and community engagement
- Collaborative Research Grant of £6000 from The Rufford Small Grants, United Kingdom (2021) on amphibian conservation in Nainital, Uttarathand
- Collaborative Research Grant of £6000 from The Rufford Small Grants, United Kingdom (2024) on amphibian conservation in Himalayan landscape
- Collaborative Grant of $5000 from The Mohamed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (2024) on Critically Endangered Dehradun Stream Frog in Chakrata, Uttarakhand
