Govt. Welfare Scheme for Students

About Us

The Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, established in 1967 under the visionary leadership of Prof. R.D.S. Bhatnagar, has evolved into one of the most recognized centres for teaching and research in animal sciences in India. Since its inception, the Department has remained committed to imparting quality education and fostering advanced research aimed at understanding, conserving, and responsibly utilizing animal resources in harmony with modern scientific advancements and regional traditions.

The Department offers M.Sc. and Ph.D. programmes in Zoology, along with an M.Sc. programme in Forensic Science, addressing both classical and emerging interdisciplinary domains. The M.Sc. Zoology programme provides specialized training through elective streams such as Fish, Fisheries and Aquaculture; Animal Behaviour & Wildlife Conservation; Molecular Reproduction; Cytogenetics; Environmental Biology; and Toxicology, enabling students to develop strong theoretical foundations coupled with extensive practical and research exposure. The M.Sc. Forensic Science programme is a high-demand, application-oriented course focusing on DNA analysis, toxicology, crime scene investigation, and forensic technologies, preparing students for careers in forensic laboratories, law enforcement, and research institutions.

The Department has consistently remained at the forefront of research excellence, having been supported under DST-FIST (since 2009) and awarded the UGC-SAP (DRS) grant, reflecting its strong research infrastructure and academic output. Faculty members are actively engaged in pioneering research across diverse fields including Environmental Biology, Animal Ecology, Wildlife Conservation, Fisheries, Reproductive Biology, Entomology, Developmental Biology, Gerontology, and Cytogenetics. To date, the Department has published over 1300 research papers in reputed national and international journals, secured eight patents, and produced approximately 185 Ph.D. graduates.

Well-equipped laboratories with advanced instruments, smart classrooms, seminar halls, and computing facilities provide a vibrant learning and research environment. The Department regularly organizes seminars, workshops, conferences, and outreach activities, fostering continuous academic interaction and innovation.Many of the faculty members have laision

Several of our faculty members have visited leading scientific laboratories abroad, including those in the USA, the United Kingdom, London, and France, gaining valuable international academic and research exposure. In this context, the contributions of Prof. R. C. Gupta, Prof. Girish Chopra, Dr. Anil Tyor, and Dr. Jitender Bhardwaj deserve special mention and appreciation

The alumni of the Department occupy prestigious positions worldwide, including Vice-Chancellors, Directors, senior scientists, and officers in ZSI, MRI, IFS, IAS, and IPS, as well as faculty in leading universities and research organizations. With over 500 NET/SLET/GATE-qualified students and an impressive placement record, the Department continues to shape skilled teachers, researchers, forensic experts, and technocrats, contributing meaningfully to science, society, and sustainable development.

DEPARTMENT VISION AND MISSION

VISION

To be recognized as centre of excellence in Zoology in teaching & research while ensuring the well being of all species.

MISSION

To conserve and propagate animals in consonance with human development imbibing the latest advances in the field of Zoology.

Academic Achievements (if any):

Department has successfully produced 54 batches of M.Sc. (Zoology) up to session 2021-22, and about 160 Ph.D. students and about 25 are registered for Ph.D. degree.
More than 500 of our students are NET/SLET/GATE qualified. A number of students of our department are securing very high positions in various institutions.
Our alumni include Vice-Chancellor, Director, ZSI, MRI, IFS, Head of various University departments and leading research institutions of India and abroad. Placement of the students is more than 90%.
Department received research grants from various agencies like PL-480, DOE, DST, CSIR, UGC, SAP, Dept. of Fisheries, Govt. of Haryana in the form of research projects.
A number of the teachers of the faculty have received distinctions and honours like:
- J.S. Yadav: Fellow of Society of Cytologists and Geneticists (India), Zoological Society of India, Dayanand National Academy of Environmental Sciences, Nature Conservation; Awarded Millennium Gold Medal (2001); A beetle Hydrochus yadavi named in his honour by a Dutch Entomologist.
- A.S. Yadav: Fellow of Society of Cytologists and Geneticists.
- R.C. Gupta: Co-coordinator of Undergraduate course of Environmental Studies introduced under the direction of Hon’ble Supreme Court (2004-2005).
- Dr. P.P. Mathur: Rockefeller Foundation Fellowship at Population Council, The Rockefeller University, New York (1985-1987); Population Council Award, USA (1987-1988).
- R.K. Sharma: Prof. Harswaroop Medal (2018), Zoological Society of India, Gaya at 30th All India Congress.
- Anita Bhatnagar: Young Scientist Award of Indian Science Congress Association; Prof. Narayan Singh Trophy, Gwalior.
- Deepak Rai: Medal of Appreciation at 30th All India Congress of Zoology; Second Runner-up Award in Wildlife Photography Contest (TFRI, Jabalpur); Highest Achievement Award in Dale-Carnegie Training by K.U.K.; Gold Medalist with Distinction in M.Sc. Zoology at KUK.
- Dr. Jitender Bhardwaj: Research Award Gold Medal (2012); Prof. S.S. Guraya Young Scientist Award (2021); Best Researcher Award (2024); Research Appreciation Award (2024); Middle Career Scientist Award (2023); Prof. J.S. Yadav Memorial Award (2023); Certificate of Honour (2023); Best Research Paper Award (2012); Best Research Paper Presentation Award (2009); Medal of Appreciation at 30th All India Congress of Zoology; Eight granted patents to his credit.

Dr. Anita Bhatnagar

Chairperson Speaks

Welcome to the Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra – a prestigious and vibrant center for teaching and research in zoological sciences.

Since its establishment in 1967, the Department has been a beacon of excellence in zoological education and research across India. Over the decades, we have proudly nurtured thousands of postgraduate students and awarded nearly 162 doctoral degrees. Our accomplished alumni have excelled as administrators, educators, and scientists, making impactful contributions in universities, research institutions, and organizations both nationally and internationally.

The department’s teaching and research programs encompass diverse fields such as Fish, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Reproductive Physiology and Animal Behavior and Wildlife Conservation. Alongside a strong teaching tradition, our faculty actively contributes to the scientific community through publications in leading journals and we also regularly organize workshops, symposia, conferences, and specialized training programs, fostering an enriching environment for intellectual exchange and innovation.

At the Department of Zoology, our mission is to empower students with a robust foundation in leadership, skills development, and an in-depth understanding of the animal world. We are dedicated to nurturing your professional aspirations and holistic growth, preparing you to excel in diverse cultural, social, and economic settings.

It is our privilege to guide you in your journey towards achieving your ambitions, shaping you into a competent professional and a compassionate individual ready to contribute meaningfully to society.

We warmly welcome you to join our community and embark on a transformative educational experience.