The Department of Zoology is one of the oldest, most reputed, and academically distinguished departments in Maharashtra, established in the year 1963. Since its inception, the department has been committed to excellence in teaching, research, and extension activities in the field of animal sciences. It was founded under the visionary leadership of Late Dr. A. L. Lohgaonkar, who served as the first Head of the Department and laid a strong foundation for its academic and research-oriented growth.
A major milestone in the development of the department was the introduction of the Postgraduate (M.Sc.) programme in Zoology in June 1969. This significant advancement took place under the dynamic leadership of Late Dr. S. A. T. Venkatachari, whose academic vision and dedication transformed the department into a centre of higher learning and research. Recognizing the emerging trends and demands in biological sciences, Dr. Venkatachari introduced specialized branches such as Fishery Science and Animal Physiology at the postgraduate level. His tenure was marked by remarkable achievements in both teaching and research, and he played a crucial role in fostering a vibrant academic culture. He also set high benchmarks by publishing quality research papers in reputed national and international journals, thereby enhancing the academic reputation of the department.
Following this phase of growth, Dr. A. L. Lohgaonkar once again assumed leadership and guided the department for a long and impactful period of 14 years until 1992. Subsequently, Dr. N. E. Ambore took charge as Head of the Department and continued to strengthen its academic framework. After his retirement in 2006, the department was successively led by Dr. L. M. Mudkhede and Dr. R. P. Mali. Since 2019, Prof. Dr. S. S. Nanware has been officiating as the Head of the Department and has been instrumental in steering the department towards modernization and academic expansion.
Under the able and progressive leadership of Prof. Dr. S. S. Nanware, the department has witnessed consistent and meaningful growth. Several academic reforms have been undertaken, including the restructuring of undergraduate and postgraduate curricula in line with contemporary developments in life sciences. The introduction of Applied Parasitology as a new specialization at the postgraduate level reflects the department’s commitment to relevance, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning. New divisions and academic initiatives have further strengthened the teaching-learning process and research output.
One of the unique strengths of the department is its well-established Zoological Museum, which is considered one of the finest of its kind in the country. The museum has been systematically developed and enriched over decades through the dedicated efforts of faculty members. It houses an extensive and diverse collection of specimens representing various animal groups, including rare and endangered species, primates and non-primates, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, and invertebrates. The collection also includes vertebrate skeletons, abnormal human foetuses, and several rare and valuable specimens of high scientific importance. This museum serves as a vital academic resource, providing hands-on learning opportunities for students and acting as a centre of attraction for researchers and visitors from across Maharashtra.
At present, the department offers a comprehensive and well-structured postgraduate curriculum. In the final year, students can specialize in Applied Parasitology, Fishery Science, and Animal Physiology, along with core subjects such as Vertebrate Structure and Function, Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Mammalian Endocrinology. In the first year, the curriculum includes foundational and advanced subjects such as Invertebrate Structure and Function, Biosystematics, Taxonomy and Evolution, Economic Zoology and Animal Behaviour, Ecology and Environmental Pollution, Gamete and Developmental Biology, and Biochemistry and Immunology. Additionally, elective papers like Conservation Biology and Pathobiology & Medical Zoology provide students with opportunities to explore specialized areas of interest.
The department has made significant contributions to research, having successfully completed two major research projects funded by UGC, New Delhi and DST-SERB, as well as four minor research projects supported by UGC-WRO Pune and SRTM University, Nanded. These projects have facilitated the establishment of modern research infrastructure and procurement of advanced laboratory equipment. The recognized research centre of the department has registered 40 research scholars in the past five years, of whom 08 have successfully been awarded Ph.D. degrees by the affiliating university.
Academic excellence remains a hallmark of the department, with students consistently securing meritorious positions in undergraduate and postgraduate examinations. The department takes pride in the successful progression of its alumni, many of whom occupy significant positions in academic, research, and administrative sectors. The faculty members are actively engaged in high-quality research and have published extensively in reputed national and international journals, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in zoological sciences.
The department also enjoys a distinguished academic legacy, having held the prestigious position of Chairperson of the Board of Studies (BoS) in Zoology of the affiliating university for three consecutive terms. This reflects the department’s academic leadership and its contribution to curriculum development and policy-making in higher education.
With a rich legacy and a strong academic foundation, the Department of Zoology stands as one of the pillars of classical zoological education in the country. It continues to strive for excellence by exploring new frontiers in animal sciences, integrating modern and path-breaking techniques, and fostering a spirit of inquiry, innovation, and scientific temper among students and researchers.
Facilities in the Department
• One of the finest Zoological Museums in the country
• Well-equipped modern classrooms and laboratories
• Smart classroom facility for ICT-enabled teaching
• Fully equipped research laboratory supported by funding agencies
Currently Working Teaching Faculty in the Department:
1. Dr. Sanjay Shamrao Nanware- Professor & Head
2. Dr. H.L.Tamloorkar- Professor
3. Dr. Mrs. M.S.Kadam- Professor
4. Dr. Mrs. N.R.Jaiswal- Professor
5. Dr. Dhanraj Balbhim Bhure- Professor
6. Dr. B.Balaji Rao- Assistant Professor
7. Mr. N.B.Gavhane- Assistant Professor
8. Mr. S.D.Mane- Assistant Professor
9. Dr. Ms. D. V. Totawar - Assistant Professor
Currently Working Non-Teaching Staff in the Department:
1. Mr. R.B.Bhosle- Lab Assistant
2. Mr. S.D. Mirewad - Lab Attendant
3. Mr. J. R. Umarikar - Lab Attendant
4. Mr. P. U. Rathod - Lab Attendant
Vision:
“Learn With Us And Serve The Society”
Mission:
• To promote discovery and expand knowledge of animals, evolution, and their environments
• To ensure holistic development of students contributing to societal welfare
• To equip students with practical skills for productive societal roles
• To impart strong theoretical and practical knowledge in Zoology
• To develop communication, leadership, and personality skills through academic activities
• To instil research aptitude through investigatory projects
• To prepare students for higher studies, scholarships, and employment opportunities
• To promote advanced research through Ph.D. programmes and funded projects
• To raise awareness about biodiversity conservation and environmental protection
• To develop responsible and skilled human resources in animal sciences, teaching, and research