UoH Doctoral Student to Pursue Millet Research in the United States

Pooja Shukla, a doctoral scholar from the University of Hyderabad (UoH), has been selected for the prestigious Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowship for the 2026–27 academic year. The fellowship recognizes her research on foxtail millet genetics and will provide her an opportunity to continue advanced studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in the United States. Her work focuses on identifying important genetic traits that can help improve millet productivity and crop performance.

Under the guidance of Dr M. Muthamilarasan at UoH’s Millet Lab, Shukla is using advanced genomic and phenotyping techniques to study the genetic diversity of foxtail millet. Her research aims to support the development of climate-resilient, high-yield millet varieties that require fewer agricultural inputs. The study is expected to contribute to sustainable agriculture, food security, and the promotion of nutritious grains suitable for changing environmental conditions.

Shukla highlighted the importance of millets as nutrient-rich crops that consume less water compared to major cereals such as rice and wheat. She emphasized that increased scientific research on traditional grains can play a vital role in addressing global nutrition and climate challenges. Along with her research activities, she has also been involved in awareness programmes that encourage students and young communities to understand the benefits and future potential of millets.

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