Prof. Sharmistha Dey, All India institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Dr. Sharmistha Dey is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Biophysics at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India. 🏛️ With over 30 years of dedication to basic science research in medicine, her work bridges the interdisciplinary field of biophysics with protein biology. Her pioneering efforts in understanding proteins and peptides relevant to human health have led to breakthroughs in neurodegeneration, cancer, aging, and therapeutic plant proteins. As a scientist deeply rooted in molecular and structural biology, Dr. Dey has contributed over 140 high-impact publications and earned multiple accolades for her contributions. She is not only a prolific researcher but also an academic mentor, guiding the next generation of scientists with precision and passion. Her enduring legacy continues to transform diagnostic and therapeutic pathways in modern medicine. 🌍🧪
👩🔬 Profile
Orcid
🎓 Education
Dr. Sharmistha Dey’s academic journey is rooted in rigorous training in biophysics and biomedical sciences. 🎓 She pursued her advanced studies at premier Indian institutions with a strong focus on structural and molecular biology, culminating in a Ph.D. in Biophysics. Her educational pathway fostered a deep understanding of the physical principles governing biological systems, especially protein structure and function. Over the years, she has supplemented her education through international fellowships sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology and the Indian Council of Medical Research. These opportunities allowed her to engage with global experts and emerging technologies in the field of protein biology, further enhancing her research scope. Her commitment to lifelong learning and scientific exploration reflects her belief that education is the cornerstone of innovation and scientific excellence. 📚🔬
🧪 Experience
Dr. Sharmistha Dey stands as a veteran in the field of molecular medicine and biophysics. 🧬📈 She began her scientific career at AIIMS, one of India’s foremost medical research institutions, where she has steadily advanced to the position of Professor. Her tenure is marked by significant contributions to both experimental and translational research. As an experienced lab leader, she has overseen numerous projects focused on disease biomarkers and protein-peptide therapeutics. In addition to research, she has mentored a wide range of students—from doctoral candidates to postdoctoral fellows—shaping the future of biomedical science. She has also collaborated internationally and received recognition for fostering interdisciplinary and applied research. Her wealth of experience makes her a pillar of scientific leadership in the Indian and global research community. 🏅🌍
🔬 Research Interest
Dr. Dey’s research interests lie at the intersection of biophysics, protein biology, and medical diagnostics. 🧠🔍 Her work is grouped into four major domains: biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases (like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s), biomarkers of cancer, biomarkers of aging and age-associated disorders, and plant-derived proteins with potential therapeutic utility. By employing a diverse set of biophysical tools such as spectroscopy, crystallography, and computational biology, she deciphers the mechanisms by which proteins interact and misfold, leading to pathological states. Her multidisciplinary approach has enabled the identification of novel peptides and proteins that can be harnessed for early disease detection and therapeutic interventions. Dr. Dey’s lab also focuses on translational aspects, aiming to bridge basic science discoveries with real-world clinical applications. 🔬🌿
🏆 Awards
Dr. Sharmistha Dey’s research excellence has been recognized both nationally and internationally. 🏆 In 2016, she received the Prof. S. M. Marwah Award from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for her outstanding contributions to aging research. From 2012 through 2018, her work was consistently acknowledged with the AIIMS Excellence in Research Awards, underscoring her sustained innovation and impact. She was awarded two prestigious international fellowships, one each from the Department of Biotechnology and the ICMR, supporting her global collaborations and research enrichment. In 2019, she was awarded First Prize in Oncology Research by AIIMS for her groundbreaking work in cancer biomarkers. These accolades are a testament to her relentless pursuit of scientific advancement and her ability to convert ideas into impactful research. 🥇🌐
📚 Publication Top Notes
Serum Klotho: Unraveling its association with diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer
Impact of hemolysis on the levels of proteins associated with aging and age-related neurodegenerative diseases in a multicentric clinical research
Melamine Exacerbates Neurotoxicity in D-Galactose-Induced Neuronal SH-SY5Y Cells
Surface plasmon resonance based‐optical biosensor: Emerging diagnostic tool for early detection of diseases
Lung cancer in the older population: Interactive effects of angiotensin converting enzyme gene polymorphism (rs 4340 ID) and tobacco addiction in risk assessment
Dr. Sharmistha Dey represents a rare blend of scientific excellence, resilience, and visionary leadership, making her a highly deserving recipient of the Women Researcher Award. Her enduring work on protein biomarkers—ranging from neurodegenerative diseases and cancer to plant-based therapeutics—has had a profound impact on medical science. Her accolades, including national honors and international fellowships, validate her significant contributions. Beyond publications and awards, her mentorship and advocacy for women in science stand as testaments to her inclusive leadership. While future opportunities in industry linkage and global collaboration remain promising, her current trajectory already exemplifies the highest standards of research integrity, innovation, and social relevance. Dr. Dey’s career is not just an academic journey—it is a beacon for aspiring women scientists across generations. Honoring her through this award would not only recognize her achievements but also inspire a broader cultural shift towards equitable and impactful science. 🏆👩🏫