Vrinda Ravi Kumar

I am an evolutionary biologist. I do experiments with insects to address broad evolutionary and ecological questions about how individuals, populations and communities respond to environmental change (more on why insects are amazing). This is especially important to manage declining biodiversity during climate change and rapid urbanization. 

In my academic career, I have raised the equivalent of ~14 million INR (~150,000 €) to fund my research. I've raised funds from five international organizations (one corporate) based in the US and Europe, and three departments in the Indian central government.

I did my postdoc with Dr. Jan Hrček on the eco-evolutionary dynamics of host-parasitoid interactions and their implications for community stability, and currently collaborate with him. I received my PhD in evolutionary biology and behavioural ecology at the National Centre for Biological Sciences in Bangalore, India, with Dr. Deepa Agashe. I was born in West Bengal and raised in New Delhi.

I love the performing arts in general. I used to do improv theatre, trained in Odissi for 7 years, and hold a national-level bronze medal in Taekwondo.  Happy to chat about any mutual interests.

Science can only get better with communication! I'm happy to hear from you via email, or any of the platforms linked in the panel to the left.