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A renowned biologist, author, and educational entrepreneur known for his contributions to life sciences and biotechnology education in India. He has played a pivotal role in shaping biology education through his books, institutions, and research initiatives.
Born in Purnea, Bihar, Pranav Kumar completed his early education at Kasba High School, Purnea. He pursued his intermediate (Class 11 & 12) and B.Sc. in Botany at Patna Science College, Patna. Seeking advanced knowledge in life sciences, he moved to Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, for his M.Sc. and higher studies.
Pranav Kumar began his academic career as a faculty member in the Department of Biotechnology at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, where he taught from 2003 to 2011. During his tenure, he identified a gap in comprehensive, student-friendly resources for life sciences and biotechnology education, which inspired him to write Life Sciences: Fundamentals and Practice . This landmark publication, distinguished by its clear language, subject breadth, and rigorous authenticity, became a widely used resource among Indian students. It was praised for its clarity, simplicity, and comprehensive coverage. Its impact was further recognized in 2023 when Bruce Alberts, a distinguished American biochemist and co-author of Molecular Biology of the Cell, reviewed and acknowledged the book’s significance.
Following the success of Life Sciences: Fundamentals and Practice, he co-authored several other books with Prof. Usha Mina (JNU), including:
These books are designed for graduate and postgraduate students in India, not only to strengthen fundamental concepts but also to address the specific needs of those preparing for competitive exams. A tailored approach ensures that these books effectively support aspirants of CSIR-NET Life Sciences, GATE Life Sciences, GATE Biotechnology, BET, CUET-PG Life Sciences, GAT-B, and various other exams. By integrating in-depth subject knowledge with a student-focused approach, these books serve as comprehensive resources for both academic learning and competitive exam preparation.
In 2005, he founded Pathfinder Academy, an institution dedicated to mentoring students in life sciences and biotechnology. Pathfinder Academy has earned numerous national and international awards, particularly for his leadership. Two years later, in 2007, he established Pathfinder Publication to publish scientific books and educational materials for undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as lifelong learners. In 2024, his collaboration with Pearson expanded the reach of his publications to an international audience .
To bridge the gap between education and research, he established the Pathfinder Research and Training Foundation (PRTF) in year 2018, focusing on bioinformatics and systems biology. He has also built significant academic partnerships, including a collaboration with Hansraj College, University of Delhi, to deliver a Training Program on Translational Oncology, aiming to equip students with advanced research skills in cancer biology.
Further solidifying his commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, he established an Incubation Center and an MBA in Agribusiness Management program (approved by AICTE and affiliated with AKTU) within PRTF, fostering entrepreneurship in biotechnology and agriculture.
Pranav Kumar’s dedication to education, research, and publishing has transformed the landscape of life sciences education in India. His visionary approach continues to inspire students, researchers, and educators, making quality scientific education more accessible and impactful.
I have finally finished reading through many sections of your large two-volume introductory biology textbook, and I write to provide some feedback that might possibly help with your next edition. Let me start by saying how impressed I am that such a wide-ranging textbook was written by only two authors...... more
The Pathfinder Research and Training Foundation (PRTF) stands as a leading interdisciplinary institute committed to excellence in education, research, and entrepreneurial development. Our MBA program in Agribusiness Management, approved by AICTE and affiliated with AKTU, is designed to cultivate future leaders in the dynamic agricultural business sector.
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