Mission: To create and lead a team of scientists focused on innovative agricultural technologies and sustainable products that benefit farmers and agri-businesses.
Vision: To be a recognized international scientist, committed to delivering value-added projects and growing as a professional in the field of biotechnology.
Key Professional Experience
Research Scientist
Maxcell Biotics 2014 – Present As a Research Scientist, Dr. Kothari is involved in the development of cutting-edge agricultural biotechnologies. His research primarily focuses on Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), microbial formulations, and bioinformatics-based studies for improving agricultural sustainability.
Promoter
Symbiotics Biologicals Dr. Kothari has been instrumental in the founding and promotion of Symbiotics Biologicals, a company focusing on sustainable and residue-free agricultural practices.
Research Associate & Senior Research Fellow
Junagadh Agricultural University 2010 – Present Dr. Kothari has significant experience in plant biology, focusing on PGPR and their formulations for agricultural productivity and disease management.
Core Competencies
Agricultural Biotechnology: Research in plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, biofertilizers, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Microbial Research & Formulation: Focus on formulating microbial-based products for crop improvement and disease control.
Bioinformatics: Using bioinformatics tools for studying agro-ecosystem interactions and microbial genomics.
Sustainability in Agriculture: Developing and promoting residue-free, sustainable farming techniques
Key Research Projects
Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) Formulations Focus on developing bio-based formulations to enhance crop yield and soil health, particularly under stress conditions like salinity.
Cumin Blight Management Strategy Developed a strategy for managing cumin blight through biocontrol and microbial intervention (funded by GUJCOST).
Biodegradation of Textile Dyes and Petroleum Hydrocarbons Research on bacterial strains capable of decolorizing textile azo dyes and degrading petroleum hydrocarbons from environmental pollutants.
Publications & Research Output
International Journal Publications: Dr. Kothari has published over 9 research papers in prestigious international journals, including the Genome Announcements and the African Journal of Microbiology Research, focusing on microbial genomics and bioremediation.
Book Publications: He is the co-author of the book "Biotic Factor Management for Sustainable Agricultural Development: A Bioinformatics Approach", published by LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing, Germany.
Conference Presentations: Dr. Kothari has presented research at numerous international and national conferences on agricultural biotechnology, microbial genomics, and environmental sustainability.
More About Mr.Vishal
Training and Skills
Training in Seed Production & Environmental Impact Assessment: Dr. Kothari has received specialized training in Bt-cotton hybrid seed production and environmental impact assessment (EIA).
Technical Skills: Proficient in bioinformatics tools, microbial genomics, plant pathology, and biocontrol research. Expertise in formulating biotechnological products for agriculture.
Contributions to Industry
Innovative Agricultural Technologies: Dr. Kothari is dedicated to introducing and promoting advanced agricultural technologies like PGPR formulations and biocontrol agents to improve crop yield, plant health, and environmental sustainability.
Residue-Free Agricultural Practices: He advocates for residue-free agricultural practices that ensure the production of pure, high-quality, and sustainable agricultural products.
Collaborations & Partnerships
Research Collaborations: Dr. Kothari works in collaboration with research institutes and universities on topics such as bioremediation, crop management, and microbial-based solutions for agriculture.
Corporate Partnerships: As a promoter of Symbiotics Biologicals, he partners with agri-businesses to bring innovative products and sustainable practices to the farming sector.
Awards and Recognition
UGC Meritorious Fellowship (Junior and Senior Research Fellow)
Gold Medal for Best Performance in B.Sc. Biotechnology
Shri Hariprasad Swami Gold Medal for University Rank
Future Goals
Dr. Kothari aims to further his research on microbial solutions for agriculture, develop new biotechnological products, and contribute to the sustainable development of farming practices worldwide.
Personal Interests
Community Engagement: Dr. Kothari is actively involved in local NGOs, including NEEHIR (an NGO based in Rajkot), and has participated in multiple volunteer activities focused on social and environmental causes.