Profile Summary
Dhruvin Y. Pastagia is presently working as a Teaching Assistant at Navrachana University, Vadodara. He holds an M.Sc. in Zoology from Sardar Patel University, specializing in the diversity and density of Order Odonata. With a strong background in biodiversity, ecological research, and wildlife conservation, he has been involved in teaching and mentoring undergraduate students in Zoology and Environmental Sciences. He is passionate about field-based studies, species identification, and conservation outreach.
Academic Background/Qualifications
- M.Sc. (Zoology) – BRD School of Biosciences, Sardar Patel University (2023) – 6.52 CGPA / 7.20 GPA
- B.Sc. (Zoology) – Government Science College, Vankal, Surat, VNSGU (2021) – 8.18 CGPA
Professional & Field Experience
- Teaching Assistant, Navrachana University (July 2024 – Present): Assisted undergraduate courses, guided laboratory sessions, mentored students in experimental design, data analysis, and researchdocumentation.
- Visiting Faculty (Zoology), Government Science College, Varachha, Surat (July 2023 – Jan 2024): Delivered lectures on biodiversity, ecology, and wildlife conservation; supervised student projects.
- Aquatic Educator, Gujarat Science City, Ahmedabad (Jan 2024 – July 2024): Guided tourists and school groups on aquatic ecosystems and fish biodiversity; managed crowd engagement and interactive learning experiences.
- Faculty Member in KHOJ Project, Navrachana University: Supervised research projects on flood impact and agricultural resilience, teach 20–25 students per group; facilitated data collection, analysis, and poster presentations.
Research Experience
M.Sc. Dissertation: “Diversity and Density of Odonata in Anand and Kheda District” – Conducted systematic field surveys, analyzed environmental factors influencing species distribution, and established Odonata as bioindicators of freshwater ecosystem health.
Areas of Expertise
- Biodiversity & Ecology
- Species Identification
- Wildlife Conservation & Field Surveys
- Ornithology and Order Odonata Studies
- Student advisor and Scientific Communication
Achievements & Awards
- 3rd Place – State-Level Poster Presentation: “Population, Threats, Challenges, and Strategies” (Order Odonata).
- 2nd Place – State-Level Poster Presentation at 36th Gujarat Science Congress: “Transforming Life Through Science and Innovation.”
Workshops, Training & Conferences
Participated in multiple bird and ecology training programs, including Dang Bird Festivals (2021, 2023), GEER Foundation Birding & Ecology Training, Gandhinagar Wildlife Survey, Sloth Bear Census, National Vulture Symposium, International Workshop on Vertebrates & Invertebrates (Nal-Sarovar Bird Sanctuary), Online Odonata Workshop (Chatur Ullu Lab), and bio-analysis methods workshops at Sardar Patel University.
Publications & Scientific Writing
Authored and contributed to articles in university magazines and conference abstracts, including:
• “Odonata in Dang” (Safar Magazine, SPU)
• “Gomphus vulgatissimus” (Samatu Magazine, SPU)
• “Role of Odonata in Environment Protection” (Noble Hands India)
• “Diversity & Density of Order Odonata in Anand & Kheda District” (HNGU Abstract Book, 2025)
Fieldwork & Conservation Experience
Conducted extensive field surveys across diverse ecosystems, including Mahisagar Van (Verakhadi), Eco-Point (Soldhara), Mahal Wildlife Sanctuary, Ratan Mahal Wildlife Sanctuary, Surpaneswar Bird Sanctuary, Wadhvana Bird Sanctuary, Khijadia Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan), Wild Ass Sanctuary (LRK), Narara Marine National Park (Jamnagar), Gandhisagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, and Vansda National Park.