Introduction

Plant Physiology

The Plant Physiology course focuses on the physiological and molecular mechanisms of plant growth and development, covering seed germination, dormancy, nutrition, metabolism, photosynthesis, and plant hormones. Students gain hands-on training with advanced equipment to measure physiological traits and use modern technologies to address abiotic stresses, improve crop productivity, and enhance quality.

    Why this Programme?

    The M.Sc. (Ag) in Plant Physiology equips students with advanced knowledge to improve crop productivity, resilience to environmental stresses, and efficient resource use. It focuses on sustainable farming, crop quality, and food security, fostering innovation in breeding and developing resilient, nutrient-rich crops to meet global agricultural challenges.

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    Aim of the Programme

    The M.Sc. (Ag) in Plant Physiology aims to provide advanced knowledge of plant growth, development, and productivity while addressing real-world agricultural challenges.

    • Build expertise in plant physiology (photosynthesis, respiration, nutrient uptake, hormones, etc.).

    • Develop strong research and practical skills using modern tools.

    • Apply concepts to improve crop productivity, quality, and stress resistance.

    • Address agricultural challenges like climate change, water scarcity, and nutrient deficiencies.

    • Foster innovation in crop management and physiological disorder solutions.

    • Encourage an interdisciplinary approach linking molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry.

    Application and Admission

    Candidates with a B.Sc. in Agriculture or related fields can apply online through PJTAU’s official website. Admission is based on entrance exam performance, followed by counseling and document verification. Seats are allotted on merit, and selected candidates must pay the fees to confirm admission before classes begin. Important dates and notifications will be announced on the university website.

    Future Career

    An M.Sc. in Agricultural Plant Physiology offers diverse opportunities in research, academia, and industry. Graduates can work with ICAR, agricultural universities, biotech firms, and private research labs on crop improvement, stress tolerance, and yield enhancement. They are sought after in seed production, plant breeding, horticulture, and sustainable agriculture advisory roles. Careers in precision farming using modern technologies, as well as teaching and research (with further Ph.D. studies), are also key paths.

    Student Experiences

    " I am honored to have completed my Ph.D. in Crop Physiology at the College of Agriculture, PJTAU, Rajendranagar, under the guidance of exceptional mentors. My research on “Physiological basis of nitrogen use efficiency in rice genotypes” was greatly enriched by the department’s strong curriculum, facilities, and supportive advisory system. I am deeply grateful for the expert guidance, valuable feedback, and encouragement to grow independently as a researcher.

    – Srikanth Bathula 

    " As an M.Sc. (Ag) Crop Physiology student at PJTAU, I gained a strong foundation in plant growth, stress physiology, and crop production. The faculty’s guidance and real-world insights enriched my learning, while the research component on water stress using PGPR allowed me to explore my interest in sustainable agriculture. With excellent facilities at RARS, Palem, and continuous support from my advisor and committee, I successfully completed my research. I am deeply grateful to the University and the Faculty of Plant Physiology for their mentorship. "

    – Anil Kumar

    " **Gudla Mahesh (Ph.D. ID: RAD/2018-30)** I am grateful to have completed both my M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Crop Physiology at the College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar. The department’s excellent infrastructure, advanced instruments, and supportive faculty greatly enriched my research and academic growth. I sincerely thank the department for providing a strong foundation and nurturing my skills as a researcher."

    – Gudla Mahesh 

    Master’s in Agricultural Microbiology

    Master Course Work

    After admission the students undergo a set of courses that help them understand the basics of Plant Physiology. They have to register 20 credits in major department of PlantPhysiology,8 credits in related minor department and 6 credits in supporting subject, 5 credits in common courses,1 credit in seminar as per the Broad Subject Matter Area (BSMA) Credit System with a total credit load of 70 credits, of which 30 credits are exclusively earmarked for their Thesis Research.

    Master's Thesis Research

    After completion of required Course work credentials students have to submit their Advisory committee and Research proposals to the Dean of Post Graduate Studies for taking up of research programme. A total of 30 credits are allocated for the thesis research.
    Each student is assigned to an experienced faculty as, approved by the Dean of Post-Graduate Studies, who would guide the student on his/ her choice of research topic.

    Research Internship

    Upon entering the M.Sc. program, each student is assigned a faculty member from the department as their Research Advisor or Supervisor. This advisor is usually a faculty member who specializes in the student’s area of interest.In addition to the main research supervisor, students may also have an Advisory Committee that consists of 2–3 faculty members from the department (two from major department and others from minor department). This committee provides additional academic guidance andoversight.The student presents his/her research proposal before the External Expert panel which comprises of the Dean of Post Graduate Studies, Subject specialistsfrom other Agricultural Universities or from ICAR Research institutes, University Head and Advisory Committee members. On approval of the research proposal by the above, a student is permitted to start his research work.

    Department Photo and Video

    Major Courses Offered

    Course No. Course Title & Credits
    PP 501* (2+1) Principles of Plant Physiology I - Plant Water Relations and Mineral Nutrition
    PP 502* (2+1) Principles of Plant Physiology II - Metabolic Processes and Growth Regulation
    PP 503* (2+1) Plant Developmental Biology: Physiological and Molecular Basis
    PP 510* (2+1) Seed Physiology

    Minor Courses Offered

    Course No. Course Title & Credits
    PP 504 (2+1) Physiological and Molecular Responses of Plants to Abiotic Stresses
    PP 505 (2+1) Hormonal Regulation of Plant Growth and Development
    PP 506 (2+1) Physiological and Molecular Mechanisms of Mineral Nutrient Acquisition and Their Functions
    PP 507 (2+1) Photosynthetic Processes, Crop Growth and Productivity and Concepts of Crop Modelling
    PP 508 (2+0) Physiology of Field Crops
    PP 509 (2+0) Physiology of Horticulture Crops
    PP 511 (2+0) Phenotyping Physiological Processes
    PP 512 (2+0) Crop Growth Regulation and Management
    PP 591 (1+0) Master Seminar
    PP 599 (30) Masters Research

    Teaching Staff Details

    Name Designation Specialization Contact No. Email & Date of Retirement
    Dr. Ch. Aruna Kumari Assistant Professor Seed Physiology 9866105276 arunasujanagcjgl@gmail.com
    Retirement: 30-04-2032
    Dr. A. Geetha Assistant Professor Abiotic Stress 7780117942 geethagri_100@yahoo.co.in
    Retirement: 30-04-2039