Priyanka Gupta is a skilled researcher in the fields of molecular biology, plant biotechnology and biochemistry. A senior research fellow at the Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI), she has extensive knowledge on grasspea (Lathyrus sativus), as well as other herbs and vegetables that have fodder or medicinal potential for livestock, namely Aak (Calotropis procera) and Centella asiatica. She has previously taught at ITM University and the Vijyaraje Institute of Science & Management, and has presented at several conferences including the International Conference on Climate Change & Sustainable Development 2010 in Gwailor, India.

During her fellowship with Bioversity International, Priyanka will be investigating the effects of heat and drought stress on ß-ODAP content in grasspea (Lathyrus sativus). Grasspea, considered as one of the hardiest crops for adaptation to climate change, is often used as a survival food and fodder in the rural areas of South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Unfortunately, the crop contains a neurotoxic plant toxin also known as ß-ODAP, which causes paralysis in human beings when consumed for extended periods. ODAP content in grasspea is highly influenced by environmental factors. Priyanka’s research aims to investigate the pattern of ODAP accumulation during different growth stages in different parts of the plant, in order to develop safer varieties in the future.

Priyanka’s one-year fellowship is to be carried out at the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria.