05/06/2026
“The ocean never fears its depth, and neither should we fear our dreams.”
KP Nithika, a student of II MSc Zoology, has steadily carved a path for herself in the field of marine biology through determination, initiative, and a passion for research.
Driven by her interest in marine life, Nithika independently approached the Zoological Survey of India, Chennai, where she worked under Dr. Bineesh K. K. at the Marine Biology Regional Centre. Her research focused on sharks and guitarfishes, involving morphometric and biological analyses.
Recognizing her dedication, her professors recommended her for an opportunity at the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Goa. There, under the guidance of Dr. Karnan Chinnadurai in the Biological Oceanography Division, she gained valuable research experience in oceanographic studies. During her tenure at NIO, she also participated in the WOSC Conference, where she presented a literature review based on her work.
Adding an international dimension to her research journey, Nithika later collaborated with GPER, France-based NGO that represented her work at Sharks International 2026 in Sri Lanka. At the conference, she contributed to research on the endangered Spinetail Devil Ray alongside Nicolas Ziani, from GPER, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and the Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography, Japan. She also became a member of the Indian Shark & Ray Network.
Reflecting on her achievements, Nithika expresses heartfelt gratitude to the Department of Zoology, PhD scholar M. Miruthulaa, and her family, especially her mother, for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout her journey.
To everyone reading this, Nithika encourages people to step beyond their comfort zone and explore fearlessly, just like the ocean itself. “Beyond every wave is a new beginning.”
Written by: Sashtika Saravanabhava,
I BSc Cybersecurity
