Mansha Seth Pasricha

Mansha Seth Pasricha is an Associate Research Scholar in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Princeton University. She holds a BS (Honors) in Biochemistry from the University of Delhi and a PhD from Rutgers University. Her postdoctoral research was conducted at Siobain Duffy’s lab, focusing on RNA virus evolution, followed by current work in José Avalos’ lab exploring extremophilic microbes' metabolic potential for sustainability projects, bioremediation, and biomining.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Biochemistry, University of Delhi
• PhD in Microbiology, Rutgers University (Advisor: Kay Bidle)
• Postdoctoral Research, Siobain Duffy Lab

Research interests center on understanding evolutionary mechanisms in extremophiles, particularly Archaea, and applying their unique metabolic pathways to environmental challenges. Her work bridges fundamental biology with practical applications in biotechnology and sustainability.

Publications focus on viral ecology in polar environments, evolutionary constraints in RNA viruses, and biochemical mechanisms of archaeal proteins. Her studies reveal insights into ancient microbial adaptations and their modern-day applications.

No scientific awards explicitly mentioned. Current research is part of the Avalos Lab, which integrates microbial systems for sustainable engineering solutions.

Outside academia, Mansha enjoys gardening, running, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.