Advances in Plant Pathology Research

Sourav Maharaj is a Plant Pathologist and Crop Scientist with a BSc in Agriculture (Plant Pathology) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and is currently pursuing an MSc in Crop Science. He serves as a Plant Pathology Intern and Research Assistant at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where he is involved in plant disease diagnostics, pathogen isolation, laboratory analysis, field disease scouting, and crop health research. His practical expertise includes PCR techniques, tissue culture, microscopy, aseptic laboratory procedures, and disease management in various crop production systems. Passionate about sustainable agriculture, he is committed to advancing plant health, crop improvement, and climate-resilient agricultural practices while actively mentoring undergraduate students and contributing to academic development.

• Plant Pathology
• Crop Science
• Plant Disease Diagnostics
• Plant-Microbe Interactions
• Sustainable Crop Protection

• Plant disease diagnostics and pathogen identification.
• Pathogen isolation, culturing, and maintenance of fungal cultures.
• Laboratory techniques including PCR, microscopy, tissue culture, micro-pipetting, centrifugation, and autoclaving.
• Field scouting and disease surveillance in crop trials.
• Collection, analysis, and interpretation of experimental data.