Deep Ratan Kumar

Experienced Plant Scientist and Breeder with over 15 years in the agriculture seed industry, specializing in prebreeding, resistance breeding, speed breeding, and molecular plant pathology. Proven track record in developing disease-resistant hybrids across vegetable and field crops, managing field trials, and regulatory field studies. Strong technical and project leadership skills, with a collaborative and innovation-driven mindset.

Associate Research Scientist – Trait Discovery & Development Lab - Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Pvt. Ltd. (Mahyco) - Jalna, Maharashtra, India

(2025-01)

Breeder – Vegetables - Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Pvt. Ltd. (Mahyco) - Jalna, Maharashtra, India

(2024-01 - 2024-12)

Pre-Breeder – Vegetables - Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Pvt. Ltd. (Mahyco) - Jalna, Maharashtra, India

(2019-01 - 2023-12)

Associate Research Scientist – Plant Virus Interaction Lab - Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Pvt. Ltd. (Mahyco) - Jalna, Maharashtra, India

(2011-01 - 2018-12)

Research Associate – Gene Function & Manipulation Lab - Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Pvt. Ltd. (Mahyco) - Jalna, Maharashtra, India

(2007-01 - 2010-12)

• Led development of disease-resistant hybrids in multiple crops using interspecific hybridization and trait introgression.
• Established speed breeding protocols for reducing cycle time in cauliflower and other crops.
• Conducted multi-location field trials, phenotypic screening, and molecular analysis for trait validation.
• Executed regulatory confined field trials for transgenic cotton and okra targeting virus resistance (e.g., TSV, OYVMV).
• Managed cross-functional teams including RAs, TFAs, and field labor; oversaw planning, budgeting, and execution of breeding projects.
• Contributed to germplasm management, seed multiplication, and regulatory SOP compliance.

M.Sc. - Biotechnology - Berhampur University, Odisha, India

B.Sc. - Zoology (Hons), Botany & Chemistry - Berhampur University, Odisha, India