A researcher from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) has been selected to participate in Arctic polar research activities, marking a significant milestone for TNAU in the field of polar science and arctic research.

M. Gomathy, associate professor (Microbiology), Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, V.O. Chidambaranar Agricultural College and Research Institute (V.O.C. AC&RI), Killikulam, a constituent of TNAU is the first researcher from TNAU, who got selected to participate in Indian Arctic Research Programme. The programme focuses on polar microbial ecology and extreme environmental studies.

The programme is being organised and funded by National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), under the government of India’s, Ministry of Earth Sciences, as part of India Arctic Expedition 2026-2027.

Speaking to The Hindu, Ms. Gomathi said that her study is expected to provide insights into stress-responsive traits and potential bioactive metabolites associated with arctic plant microbiomes.

Expressing her feeling at being honoured, she said that her research work has been approved for conducting scientific studies at Himadri, India’s permanent arctic research station located at International Arctic Research Base, Ny-Ålesund, Norway, situated around 1,200 km from North Pole.

She noted that after the completion of a month of research, samples will be brought to India through NCPOR for further study and assessment, as many things cannot be concluded within one month of study.

M. Theradimani, dean, V.O.C. AC&RI and K. Baskar, HoD, Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry congratulated Ms. Gomathy for the remarkable accomplishment.