Mr. Arjun Pandit | Wildlife Diseases | Best Researcher Award
Graduate Student at Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Japan
Arjun Pandit is a dedicated researcher and Ph.D. candidate at the Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Japan. His research focuses on the epidemiology of elephant tuberculosis, exploring transmission dynamics at the human-elephant interface, and optimizing diagnostic methods using non-invasive techniques. With a strong academic background in veterinary medicine, Arjun has conducted significant research on various infectious diseases affecting wildlife, particularly Asian elephants. He has published several journal articles on topics such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpes Virus (EEHV), and endoparasitic diseases. His work has been recognized with awards, including a travel grant and the prestigious Rufford International Grant. Additionally, Arjun has extensive experience working as a Livestock Development Officer in Nepal, where he contributed to animal health management and disease control. His expertise extends to veterinary public health, infectious diseases, and wildlife medicine, making him a valuable contributor to veterinary science and conservation efforts.
Profile
Arjun Pandit is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Veterinary Medicine at the Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Japan, where he focuses on the epidemiology of elephant tuberculosis and its transmission dynamics at the human-elephant interface. His research aims to optimize the diagnosis of elephant tuberculosis using non-invasive methods such as fecal samples. Prior to his doctoral studies, Pandit earned a Master of Veterinary Science (MVSc) in Medicine from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, graduating with an impressive 87.55% in 2014. His master’s thesis investigated the seroprevalence of Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpes Virus (EEHV) infection, endoparasitic diseases, and the serum biochemical profile of Asian elephants in the Chitwan District of Nepal. Additionally, Pandit holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & A.H.) from Tribhuvan University, where he graduated in 2011 with an 80.27% score. His bachelor’s mini-thesis focused on assessing subclinical mastitis in dairy animals using the California mastitis test and cultural tests.
Arjun Pandit has garnered extensive professional experience in the field of veterinary medicine and animal husbandry, working in various capacities over the past decade. Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. at the Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Japan, where he focuses on the epidemiology of elephant tuberculosis. Prior to this, Arjun served as a Livestock Development Officer in Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, where he played a crucial role in animal health and livestock management. His work involved overseeing livestock programs, conducting field research, and implementing disease control measures. Additionally, he has worked as a veterinary doctor with the National Trust for Nature Conservation in collaboration with Elephant Aid International, USA, contributing to wildlife conservation efforts. Arjun’s experience is complemented by his earlier academic roles, including his tenure as an Assistant Professor at Gokuleshwor Agriculture and Animal Science College, where he taught courses on livestock production and management.
Research Interests
Arjun Pandit’s research interests focus on the intersection of veterinary public health, wildlife medicine, and infectious diseases, particularly within the One Health framework. His work primarily revolves around the epidemiology of diseases in wildlife, with a specialized interest in elephant tuberculosis and other zoonotic diseases that pose risks to both animal and human health. Pandit is committed to enhancing diagnostic methodologies, particularly non-invasive techniques, for tracking and managing diseases in wildlife populations. His research extends to the study of endoparasitic diseases and their impact on wildlife, alongside the seroprevalence of viral infections such as Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpes Virus (EEHV). Through his research, Pandit aims to contribute to the broader understanding of disease transmission dynamics at the human-animal interface, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in disease surveillance and wildlife conservation to safeguard both animal and public health.
Arjun Pandit possesses robust research skills, honed through extensive experience in veterinary medicine and wildlife epidemiology. His expertise lies in the epidemiology of elephant tuberculosis, with a particular focus on transmission dynamics at the human-elephant interface. He has developed non-invasive diagnostic methods for detecting tuberculosis in elephants, demonstrating his innovative approach to solving complex veterinary challenges. Arjun’s research on the seroprevalence of Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpes Virus (EEHV) and endoparasitic diseases in Asian elephants highlights his proficiency in disease surveillance and wildlife health management. His ability to design and conduct comprehensive field studies, coupled with his proficiency in statistical analysis using SPSS and Microsoft Excel, underscores his analytical acumen. Arjun’s collaborative efforts with international organizations and his contributions to multiple peer-reviewed publications further emphasize his strong research foundation, making him a valuable asset in the field of veterinary public health and wildlife epidemiology.
Awards and Recognition
Arjun has been recognized for his academic excellence and research achievements, including securing top positions in national exams and receiving international grants for his research. These accolades affirm his dedication and success in his field, making him a deserving candidate for this award.
Conclusion
Arjun Pandit’s extensive research contributions, geographic impact, collaborative efforts, and focus on applied research in veterinary medicine make him a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His work on elephant health, particularly in the areas of tuberculosis and herpesvirus, demonstrates a commitment to addressing critical issues in wildlife conservation and public health. With his extensive experience, recognized publications, and significant achievements, Arjun Pandit stands out as an exemplary researcher whose work has made a meaningful impact in his field.
Publications Top Notes
- Epidemiology and molecular characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis including a drug-resistant strain associated with mortality of Asian elephants in Nepal 2019–2022
- Authors: Pandit, A., Thapa, J., Sadaula, A., Paudel, S., Tsubota, T.
- Year: 2024