Geochemical behaviour of Platinum Group of Elements (PGE) and micronutrients in selected Indian estuaries and open ocean waters.

The formation of planets and the evolution of the physical features and life-forms therein, and how they co-exist in space and time and influence each other, form the basis of our research. We study the tiny sub-micron-sized dust grains which are the building blocks of terrestrial planets as well as minor bodies such as planetesimals. We specifically focus on dust in asteroids and comets in the Solar system, the interstellar medium, and other astrophysical systems. Through this, we aim to understand the origin and evolution of planet Earth. Our current research emphasizes the co-evolution of land-forms and life-forms with a special focus on the Western Ghats which has witnessed major geological events for millions of years. We undertake geomorphic and geological investigations on different geocomposites of southern Western Ghats. We also study the diversity, distribution, and evolution of plants with extant and extinct flora. Our proximity to the Western Ghats and the rich biodiversity therein enables us to explore the fundamental questions that have long been unanswered. These studies are being undertaken in close collaboration with scientists from research institutes and universities in India and abroad.