Ayan Sarkar
New Delhi, Delhi| Grant Category: | Fulbright-Kalam Doctoral Research Fellowships |
| Project Title: | Coupling machine learning and crop simulation models to identify low-emission, sustainable production pathways for rice-based systems |
| Field of Study: | Climate |
| Home Institution: | ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Delhi |
| Host Institution: | Cornell University , Ithaca, NY |
| Grant Start Month: | January 2026 |
| Duration of Grant: | Nine months |
Brief Bio:
Mr. Ayan Sarkar is a PhD candidate at the Division of Agronomy, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi. He completed BSc in Agricultural Sciences from Bidhan Chandra Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (BCKV), West Bengal, in 2020, and MSc in Agronomy from ICAR-IARI in 2022. During MSc, he worked on evaluating new-generation fertilizers such as nano-urea and herbicide mixture-based weed management in wheat, publishing his findings in reputed journals. He has also co-authored a number of publications and presented papers at various national and international conferences.
As a Fulbright-Kalam Doctoral Research Fellow, Ayan is working on knowledge-guided machine learning, i.e., coupling machine learning with crop simulation models to identify low-emission and sustainable production pathways in rice-based systems. This innovative approach aims to optimize yield-emission trade-offs and develop climate-resilient agricultural strategies, particularly for small and marginal farmers.
Beyond academics, Ayan is passionate about cricket, badminton, fine arts, and cooking. He donates blood and promotes blood donation awareness. Through his research, he aspires to empower farmers with practical, climate-proofing solutions, contributing to a future where agriculture balances profitability and environmental sustainability.