Dr. Dorin Gupta is a plant breeder specializing in cereals and pulses, with a particular dedication to lentils. Her studies range from investigating genetic traits of both wild and domesticated species, to understanding responses to biotic and abiotic stresses such as fungal disease, drought and cold. Dorin is well published on several species including bread wheat (Triticum aestivum), urd bean (Vigna mungo) and lentils (Lens culinaris); and has presented her work at several conferences including the 4th Asian Chromosome Colloquium in Beijing, China.

Her research fellowship with Bioversity International focused on looking at the genomic sequences of the model legume, Barrel Medic (Medicago truncatula) in order to identify markers that could help improve lentil breeding. Lentil is an important annual crop and source of protein throughout South Asia, West Asia and the Mediterranean region; yet it is one of the least researched crop species due to a lack of genomic information. Dorin’s research therefore, aimed at using “comparative genomics” as a strategy to extend the genetic information available for lentils. This was done by studying the extensive genomic sequence of the closely related Medicago truncatula, and comparing it to what was available of the lentil genetic map; in so doing, molecular markers from Medicago truncatula helped construct a more comprehensive genetic map of lentil, identify novel genes and tag traits of agronomic importance.

The results from Dorin’s research were recently published and can be found in the journal - Molecular Breeding. Dorin is currently working on widening the genetic base of cultivated lentil and the existing lentil improvement program at the Department of Crop Improvement at the CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University in Palampur, India; where she also lectures.