Eastern Ghats

DISCERNING THE EASTERN GHATS

From Genes to Landscapes

18 - 21 Feb 2026

Genes to Ecosystems

Connecting molecular insights to landscape-level biodiversity patterns.

Fragmented Landscapes

Examining connectivity, habitat loss and restoration priorities.

Conservation & Policy

Informing conservation planning through genomics and field ecology.

About the conference

The Eastern Ghats form one of India's most complex and least understood mountain systems, extending as a chain of fragmented hill ranges across the country's eastern landscape. Their ecological identity has long been difficult to define because the region blends gradually with both the Western Ghats and the forests of eastern India, while also reflecting highly varied geological origins. This mosaic of habitats supports diverse and often unique plant and animal communities, yet much of this diversity remains poorly documented and increasingly vulnerable to habitat loss, fragmentation, and climate-driven change. As scientific interest in the Eastern Ghats grows, there is a pressing need to refine our understanding of its biogeography, ecological processes, and conservation priorities.

"Discerning the Eastern Ghats: From genes to landscapes" is planned as a platform to bring together researchers, students, conservation practitioners, NGOs, and government agencies working across this region. Alongside invited talks by eminent scientists, panel discussions and poster presentations, the symposium will also highlight the significant contributions made by CSIR-CCMB-LaCONES over the past five years, showcasing its research in Biogeography, Animal and plant community ecology, Restoration of animal populations and Systematic conservation planning in the Eastern Ghats. The event is further strengthened by an intensive genomics workshop, designed to introduce participants to modern genomics.

CSIR-CCMB LaCONES

About CSIR–CCMB LaCONES

The conference is hosted at LaCONES (Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species), a unique facility of the CSIR–Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad. LaCONES is India’s premier centre dedicated to applying modern molecular, reproductive, and genomic tools for wildlife research and conservation.

Equipped with advanced laboratories and staffed by experts in genetics, ecology and evolution, wildlife biology, biotechnology, and reproductive sciences, LaCONES works closely with forest departments, zoos, conservation organisations, and researchers across the country.

The centre has played a pivotal role in species recovery programmes, genetic monitoring, assisted reproduction, disease diagnostics, and wildlife forensics, while also contributing to foundational research in ecology and evolution.

Patron & Convenor

Patron
Dr. Vinay K Nandicoori
Dr. Vinay K Nandicoori
Director,CSIR-CCMB
Convenor
Dr. G Umapathy
Dr. G Umapathy

Organizers

Organizer
Organizer 1
Dr. Siddharth Kulkarni
Organizer
Organizer 2
Dr. Gopi Krishnan

Workshop (18–19 Feb, 2026)

This workshop brings together PhD scholars, early-career researchers and scientists for an immersive introduction to modern genomics. The programme begins with the fundamentals of DNA sequencing, sequencing platforms, and essential “Genomics 101” concepts to build a strong conceptual foundation. Participants will then advance to hands-on sessions covering genome assembly, annotation, visualization, and biological interpretation. This workshop will help the participants gain practical skills with real datasets and widely used bioinformatics tools, and ensures both technical training and exposure to current research trends in the field.

Highlights

  • Foundational modules on high-throughput sequencing technologies such as Illumina, Oxford Nanopore, PacBio and their applications.
  • Genomics 101 - Core concepts, workflows, and quality control essentials.
  • Introduction to Linux, handling High Performance Computing clusters and installing software tools and applications.
  • Hands-on training in genome assembly and polishing using popular pipelines.
  • Genome annotation sessions focusing on structural and functional annotation approaches.
  • Visualization & interpretation - Use of genome browsers, comparative genomics tools, and result interpretation strategies.
  • Expert lectures & talks by leading genomics researchers.
  • Interactive discussions connecting workshop learning with real-world applications in biodiversity, ecology and evolution.
  • Certificates for participants who complete all modules and practical exercises.

Who Can Apply?

PhD scholars, early-career researchers, academicians, and scientists working in life sciences, biodiversity, agriculture, ecology, health, or any field where genomics can advance their research. There are 15 slots in total and shortlisted candidates will be sent communication with further details.

Symposium (20–21 Feb, 2026)

The two-day symposium brings together postgraduate students, PhD scholars, young scientists, NGO representatives, conservation practitioners, and forest department officials for an interdisciplinary exchange focused on the Eastern Ghats. Renowned invited speakers will deliver thematic talks spanning Ecology & Evolution, Biogeography, Landscape ecology, Conservation, Biodiversity monitoring, Hydrology, Forest management, Human–wildlife Conflict, and Conservation genomics. The symposium aims to create a platform for sharing scientific insights, management experiences, and emerging tools relevant to research and conservation across the Eastern Ghats landscape.

Highlights

  • Expert talks by leading researchers and practitioners working in the Eastern Ghats
  • Thematic sessions covering ecology, biodiversity, hydrology, landscape management, and genomics
  • Panel discussions addressing real-world conservation challenges and solutions
  • Networking opportunities with scientists, NGOs, and government officials
  • Poster presentations for students and early-career researchers
  • Exposure to interdisciplinary approaches linking science, policy, and on-field management

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include postgraduate students, PhD scholars, young scientists, faculty members, NGO personnel, conservation practitioners, and officials from forest and environmental departments. There are 20 slots available in total and shortlisted candidates will be sent communication with further details.

Symposium - Invited Speakers

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