By Ved Prakash, Assistant Feature Editor-MPMI
About Durga
Durga is a plant scientist specializing in plant–microbe interactions and molecular plant pathology. She completed her Ph.D. in Plant Sciences at the University of Hyderabad, India, under the supervision of Dr. V. Dinesh Kumar, where she developed transgenic castor plants tolerant to grey mold disease caused by Botrytis ricini.
She later worked as a Research Associate at the Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research (ICAR), Hyderabad contributing to transcriptomic studies aimed at understanding systemic resistance in castor induced by Trichoderma species under a NASF-funded project.
Currently, Durga is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Laboratory of Plant–Microbe Interactions, CDFD, Hyderabad, working with Dr. Subhadeep Chatterjee. Her research focuses on understanding plant defense pathways triggered by the quorum-sensing molecule DSF in Arabidopsis thaliana, particularly the characterization of Xanthomonas-DSF elicitor-induced defense response genes and signaling pathways.
Her research has been supported by prestigious fellowships, including the DST Women Scientist-A Fellowship and the SERB National Postdoctoral Fellowship. Beyond research, Durga is passionate about painting and reading books.
In January 2026, Durga served as the lead author of a study published in MPMI titled Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Key Players in Plant Immunity Triggered by Diffusible Signal Factor (DSF), a Xanthomonas-Secreted Quorum-Sensing Molecule. In this study she explored how Arabidopsis detects specific chemical warning signals from harmful bacteria – Xanthomonas. This recognition triggers the plant’s immune system to proactively defend against infection. Durga shares her perspective on the complex ‘conversations’ between plants and microbes and her path to becoming a scientist.
What do you currently study? What question(s) are you currently most excited about?
I am currently studying plant–microbe interactions related to the quorum sensing molecule DSF (Diffusible Signal Factor) at the Laboratory of Plant-Microbe Interactions (LPMI), CDFD, Hyderabad, India. I’m particularly interested in understanding how DSF triggers plant immunity and identifying the molecular interactions between pathogens and host plants using transcriptomics and metabolomics approaches.
Did you always want to be a scientist? What attracted you to plant-microbe interactions?
Yes, I have always wanted to be a scientist and contribute new scientific insights to agriculture, with the goal of improving crop yield, productivity, and ultimately benefiting people.
Can you describe your path to graduate school or your current position?
I completed my Ph.D. in Plant Sciences at the University of Hyderabad, where I worked on developing transgenic castor plants tolerant to grey mold disease caused by Botrytis ricini. I later worked as a Research Associate at the Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research (ICAR), focusing on transcriptomic studies to understand systemic resistance in castor induced by Trichoderma species under a NASF-funded project. Currently, I am working at the Laboratory of Plant-Microbe Interactions, CDFD, Hyderabad, as a DST Women Scientist-A fellow and earlier as a SERB-National Post Doctoral Fellow studying “plant defense pathways triggered by the quorum sensing molecule DSF under the title “Characterization of Xanthomonas-DSF elicitor induced plant defense response genes and pathways in Arabidopsis thaliana”.
What are the best things but also the most challenging things scientifically for you now?
The most exciting part of my research is exploring how plants and microbes communicate at the molecular level, especially through quorum sensing molecules like DSF. I enjoy using advanced approaches such as transcriptomics and metabolomics to uncover new defense pathways in plants. At the same time, understanding these complex interactions and identifying key molecular players can be scientifically challenging, as plant–microbe responses are highly dynamic and interconnected.
What advice would you give to starting graduate students?
I would encourage graduate students to stay curious, patient, and open to learning from both successes and failures. Research can be challenging at times, but consistency, critical thinking, and a genuine passion for science are key to growth. Building good collaborations and maintaining a positive attitude also make the journey more rewarding.
Are you involved in other scientific/professional development activities? And how do these contribute to your training?
Yes, I actively participate in scientific seminars, workshops, and conferences to stay updated with recent advances in plant–microbe interactions and molecular biology. I also engage in collaborative discussions and networking with researchers from different fields. These activities help broaden my scientific perspective, improve my communication skills, and contribute significantly to my overall research and professional development.
Where do you see yourself in 5 and 10 years in terms of your career?
In the next 5-10 years, I see myself continuing advanced research in plant–microbe interactions and contributing to innovative strategies for improving crop health and productivity. Further, I am interested in becoming an independent scientist leading impactful research projects that can benefit sustainable agriculture and society.
Is there anything else you would like to share in your Spotlight? If so, what is it?
I am grateful for the opportunity to share my research journey through MPMI Spotlight. I hope my work contributes to a better understanding of plant–microbe interactions and inspires young researchers, to pursue their scientific goals with confidence and curiosity.