About the Department:
The Department of Zoology came in to existence in 1924 with the introduction of teaching of Zoology in Intermediate Course in the then Biology Department. In the subsequent eight decades of growth and expansion, the Department has diversified teaching and research to suit both recent advances and needs of the regional populace. Strong research sections emerged, in addition to the established teaching line, in the last few decades through funding from UGC, DBT, DST, MoE&F, CSIR, ICMR, ICAR, DoAE, SERB& DRDO.
Today significant research contributions are being made in biochemistry and physiology of parasites, cell and molecular biology, immunology, neurobiology, fisheries, animal models, biodiversity studies, classical and molecular taxonomy, and DNA barcoding. This complements the studies on vector biology, insect pest management, phytonematology, effect of stress on physiological functions, use of botanicals as ameliorative agents, biopesticides, taxonomy of vertebrates and biodiversity inventorisation and conservation. In recognition of the work done by the Faculty, the department is recognized as potential center for conducting investigations in the area of fluorosis, diabetes-related neuropathies, molecular taxonomy and barcoding, and as a training center for challenges related to tropical diseases. It is also training center for integrated pest management and formulation of bio-pesticides. It is associated with national and international institutions and universities for formulating biodiversity action plans and wildlife conservation activities.
The faculties of this department are full-fledged members of international institutions like International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and United Nation's Convention on Biological Diversity (UN-CBD). The department is associated in collaborative research work with various departments of Government of Andhra Pradesh (like, Forest & Wildlife, Fisheries, Pollution Control, etc.); Andhra Pradesh State Biodiversity Board and also with MNJ, Yashoda Hospitals and Global Hospitals; Zoological Survey of India; National Biodiversity Authority, Government of India and many industries associated with biotechnology. In the recently organized Eleventh Conference of Parties of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (COP11 UN-CBD), the Department has participated and contributed for the production of the first ever database of Biological Diversity of Andhra Pradesh and first Greater Hyderabad City Biodiversity Index in collaboration with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation and other stakeholders.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES OFFERED:
M. Sc. Zoology 2 Years, 25 Seats
Ph. D. Zoology 3 Years