Sanjay Kumar Pradhan
Last Revised: Sep 22nd, 2025
Professional Biography
Education
Dual Award PhD Candidate (Western Sydney University, Australia & University of Agricultural Sciences Bangalore, India)
Summary of Current Research
My research focuses on improving RNA interference (RNAi) in the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis), a highly destructive invasive pest of ash trees, by leveraging a recombinant entomopathogenic fungus as a delivery system. Entomopathogenic fungi such as Beauveria bassiana naturally infect insects and can be engineered to express double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) targeting essential genes in the beetle. This approach aims to overcome the barriers of oral dsRNA instability and limited uptake in emerald ash borer by providing a persistent, biologically relevant route of delivery during fungal infection. By combining fungal pathogenicity with gene-specific RNAi, the strategy has the potential to enhance control efficacy, reduce reliance on chemical insecticides, and provide an environmentally sustainable tool for managing emerald ash borer populations.
