M. SYED MARJUK
Ph.D. Research Scholar (Marine Science) | Environmental Scientist |
Machine Learning Specialist
Project Fellow – Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
📞 - | ✉️-| 🔗 LinkedIn
Career objectives
Interdisciplinary environmental scientist with research experience spanning marine
ecology, remote sensing, and wildlife monitoring, now integrating advanced skills in Machine
Learning (ML) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). I specialize in developing predictive
ecological models using satellite-derived oceanographic parameters, aiding in environmental
forecasting, conservation planning, and sustainable aquaculture. I aim to contribute to AIdriven environmental intelligence platforms by providing domain-specific insights rooted in
empirical research and data science.
Academic chronicle
Year of
passing
Aggregate
(%)
Qualification
School/College
Board/University
Ph.D. Zoology
(Interdisciplinary in
Marine Science)
Bharathidasan University
Bharathidasan
University
Current study
_-
M. Sc. Zoology
Hajee Karutha
Rowther Howdia College
Madurai Kamaraj
University
2020
76.45
First Class with
Distinction
B. Sc. Zoology
Hajee Karutha
Rowther Howdia College
Madurai Kamaraj
University
2018
67.2
First Class
HDCA (Honours
Diploma in
Computer
Application)
Computer Software College
Private
2019
90
Excellent
HSC (Zoology,
Botany, Chemistry,
Physics)
SKA Higher Secondary
School, Chinnamanur
State Board
2015
77.8
First Class with
Distinction
State Board
2013
75.8
First Class with
Distinction
SSLC (General)
Municipal High School,
Chinnamanur
1|Syed Marjuk CV
Research Interest
Application of Machine Learning and AI in Environmental Sciences
My current research explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and marine ecology,
with a focus on applying machine learning (ML) and artificial neural networks (ANN) to solve
complex environmental challenges. I specialize in modeling phytoplankton and zooplankton
biomass using satellite-derived variables such as SST and Chlorophyll-a, integrating fieldcollected plankton data with ocean colour remote sensing through platforms like SeaDAS and
MATLAB. My expertise bridges ecological data science, environmental monitoring, and
sustainable resource management—making me well-positioned to contribute to AI-powered
platforms aimed at climate resilience, biodiversity assessment, and conservation impact
modeling.
Wildlife Hazard Management and Population Dynamics
My research focuses on wildlife behaviour, particularly avian species, and their
interactions with human-modified environments. Through my work on House sparrow (Passer
domesticus) populations in urban settings, I have developed expertise in understanding bird
adaptation patterns, population dynamics, and habitat management strategies. This research has
provided valuable insights into wildlife movement patterns, behavioural responses to
environmental changes, and effective management approaches.
Environmental Assessment and Wildlife Monitoring
My research experience encompasses comprehensive wildlife monitoring and
environmental impact assessment, with particular emphasis on bird populations in diverse
ecosystems. I have conducted extensive field studies focusing on species identification,
behavioural analysis, and population tracking. This work has enhanced my understanding of
wildlife hazard assessment and the implementation of effective mitigation strategies.
Additionally, my experience includes stakeholder coordination and the development of
sustainable wildlife management practices that balance environmental conservation with human
activities.
đź› Technical skills
AI & Machine Learning Tools for Environmental Modeling
I possess strong technical proficiency in applying AI techniques—particularly machine
learning algorithms and artificial neural networks—for environmental data analysis and
predictive modeling. Using MATLAB’s Regression Learner App, I have trained and optimized
models (SVM, GPR, Ensemble, ANN) to forecast biological parameters such as phytoplankton
and zooplankton biomass from oceanographic data (SST, Chl-a). I’ve also translated trained
ANN models into mathematical expressions for pixel-wise evaluation in SeaDAS, enabling direct
integration with satellite imagery. My technical expertise includes end-to-end workflows from
environmental data preprocessing and feature engineering to model validation and deployment
in geospatial platforms.
Animal Identification (Taxonomist)
I am experienced in animal taxonomy, with an extensive background in identifying and
categorising species from Protozoa to Mammalia. I am proficient in Invertebrate, birds, and insect
taxonomy and dedicated to furthering my knowledge and understanding of the animal world.
2|Syed Marjuk CV
Wildlife Identification and Monitoring
Experienced in comprehensive wildlife identification and behavioural assessment, with
expertise in avian species identification, population monitoring, and habitat assessment.
Proficient in analysing wildlife movement patterns, conducting species surveys, and
implementing monitoring protocols. Skilled in documenting and tracking wildlife presence in
various environments, with a strong focus on bird species that may impact aviation safety.
Field Assessment and Data Collection
Demonstrated expertise in environmental monitoring, wildlife hazard assessment, and data
collection methodologies. Experienced in conducting systematic wildlife surveys, documenting
behavioural patterns, and implementing mitigation strategies. Skilled in analysing wildlifehabitat relationships and assessing potential risks in human-modified environments.
Instrumental and software skills
Laboratory & Analytical Instruments
•
•
•
•
Inverted, Stereo Zoom, and SEM Microscopy
Gas Chromatography (GC), UV-Vis Spectrophotometry
PCR and Gel Electrophoresis
Sample preparation and preservation techniques for plankton and DNA/RNA samples
Wildlife and Field Monitoring Equipment
•
•
•
•
Light trap operation for insect population studies
Mist nets and bird banding tools for safe capture and release
Radio tagging for wildlife tracking
Camera traps for terrestrial species behaviour documentation
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning & Modeling
•
•
•
•
MATLAB Regression Learner App: Trained and evaluated multiple ML models (ANN,
SVM, GPR, Ensemble Trees, Linear Models) for environmental predictions
Artificial Neural Networks (ANN): Developed custom models for predicting
Phytoplankton Biomass (PBM) and Zooplankton Biomass (ZBM)
Model Translation for SeaDAS: Converted ANN outputs into mathematical expressions
for use in pixel-wise band operations
Model Performance Metrics: R², RMSE, MAE, and error distribution plots
Programming & Scripting
•
•
•
MATLAB: Data preprocessing, modeling, regression workflows, and visualization
Python (Beginner): Basic data handling and ML pipeline familiarity (NumPy, pandas,
matplotlib)
SeaDAS Band Math: Mathematical modeling using OCM-3 datasets (SST, Chl-a, TSM)
3|Syed Marjuk CV
Remote Sensing & GIS Tools
•
•
•
SeaDAS: Satellite ocean color data analysis (OCM-3 – SST, Chl-a, TSM)
QGIS & ArcGIS: Spatial mapping, habitat distribution modeling, and environmental
assessments
Field GIS Integration: Real-time GPS-linked sampling and data layer generation
Statistical & Visualization Tools
•
•
•
SPSS, MINITAB, GraphPad Prism: Statistical modeling, hypothesis testing, ANOVA,
regression
SigmaPlot & Origin: Data visualization, ecological trends, scatter and curve plots
Microsoft Excel: Data entry, formulas, pivot tables, charts
Other Tools
•
•
•
Mendeley: Reference management
Photoshop: Scientific image editing
Microsoft Office Suite: Technical documentation, presentations, and reports
Research experience
1. Project Associate (ISRO – OceanSAT-3 Project)
Marine Planktonology & Aquaculture Laboratory, Department of Marine Science,
Bharathidasan University
March 2023 – Present |
Tiruchirappalli, India | đź›° Funded by ISRO, Space Applications
Centre (SAC)
Key Contributions:
•
•
•
•
•
Developed machine learning and ANN models using MATLAB Regression Learner to
predict phytoplankton and zooplankton biomass (PBM and ZBM) from satellite-derived
SST and Chlorophyll-a data.
Translated trained ANN models into mathematical expressions for integration into
SeaDAS band math workflows (pixel-level predictions).
Conducted environmental data collection during 4 oceanographic research cruises (ORV
Sagar Manjusha, RV Sindhu Sankalp, CRV Sagar Tara, CRV Sagar Anveshika).
Managed integration of in-situ water quality data (nutrients, pigments, chlorophyll) with
remote sensing datasets.
Collaborated with NRSC and SAC (ISRO) scientists for validation of AI-based
environmental monitoring outputs.
4|Syed Marjuk CV
2. Project Associate (DBT – Copepod Culture & Aquaculture Technology)
Marine Planktonology & Aquaculture Laboratory, Bharathidasan University
April 2021 – May 2022 |
Funded by Department of Biotechnology (DBT), India
Key Contributions:
•
•
•
•
Designed high-density culture systems for marine copepods (Pseudodiaptomus
annandalei) to simulate natural environmental conditions ex-situ.
Worked on resting egg (cyst) development and harvesting, contributing to innovations
in sustainable aquaculture live feed production.
Integrated environmental parameters and growth data for experimental optimization
using statistical tools (SPSS, GraphPad Prism).
Contributed to a peer-reviewed publication on continuous copepod culture protocols.
3. Environmental Impact Assessment Biologist (Field Collaboration)
Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) (Freelance Role during Tenure)
Ennore, Chennai & Karaikal (Oil Spill Sites)
Key Contributions:
•
•
•
Participated in a field team to assess plankton biodiversity impacts from marine oil spills.
Collected and analyzed samples to evaluate changes in zooplankton community
structures post-spill.
Contributed to reports on restoration strategies and EIA documentation.
4. Ornithologist (Avian Ecology and Hazard Monitoring)
Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON)
February 2021 – April 2021 |
Funded by MoEF&CC, Government of India
Key Contributions:
•
•
•
Conducted avian population monitoring and field assessments for bird hazard
management and conservation planning.
Applied avian behavior modeling for understanding species dynamics in human-modified
ecosystems.
Gained specialized training in avian species identification, population tracking, and habitat
suitability assessment.
5. Environmental Educator & Coordinator
Pitchandikulam Forest Unit, Auroville Foundation
August 2020 – February 2021 |
Pondicherry, India
Key Contributions:
•
•
Coordinated wildlife surveys and biodiversity assessments, emphasizing habitat
interactions and human–wildlife dynamics.
Developed and implemented community-based environmental education and ecosystem
awareness programs.
5|Syed Marjuk CV
•
Trained field teams in data collection protocols, ecological monitoring, and GIS-based
mapping tools.
6. M.Sc. Research Fellow (Urban Wildlife Ecology)
Hajee Karutha Rowther Howdia College, Madurai Kamaraj University
August 2019 – February 2021 |
Funded by Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and
Technology (TNSCST)
Research Focus:
•
•
•
Investigated urban adaptation and population decline in House Sparrows (Passer
domesticus) using systematic field surveys.
Developed and implemented wildlife monitoring protocols and statistical analyses for
urban ecosystem biodiversity.
Produced a detailed thesis contributing to urban wildlife conservation strategies.
Publications
1. Meeran, M., Marjuk, S., Byrose, M., Arivoli, S., Tennyson, S., & Fathima, S. (2021).
Population flux of the house sparrow Passer domesticus Linnaeus 1758 in Chinnamanur town,
Uthamapalayam taluk of Theni district, Tamil Nadu, India. Journal of Tropical Life Science,
11(2). DOI: https://doi.org/-/jtls-. Santhanam, P., Marjuk, M.S., Gunabal, S. et al. A novel technology towards the high-density
and continuous production of the marine copepod, Pseudodiaptomus annandalei (Sewell, 1919).
Biomass Conv. Bioref. (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s--w
3. Gowthami, A., Marjuk, M. S., Raju, P., Devi, K. N., Santhanam, P., Kumar, S. D., & Perumal,
P. (2023). Biodegradation efficacy of selected marine microalgae against Low-Density
Polyethylene (LDPE): An environment-friendly green approach. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 190,
114889. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul-
Achievements
1. Received the prestigious “Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Young Research Award” from the
Terre Policy Centre for-. The award, presented on 27 July 2023, recognised
innovation and invention in the field of research.
2. Participated and served as coordinator for multiple wildlife census operations conducted by
Tamil Nadu Forest Department and NGO’s, demonstrating expertise in systematic
wildlife population assessment and data collection protocols. Led teams in implementing
standardized wildlife monitoring methodologies while coordinating with forest department
officials and NGO stakeholders
3. Actively participated in four research cruises along the coasts of India as part of the
OceanSAT-3, SAC (Space Application Centre), ISRO (Indian Space Research
Organization) project. Roles included data collection and scientific research aboard the
ORV Sagar Manjusha, RV Sindhu Sankalp, CRV Sagar Anveshika, and CRV Sagar Tara
contributing to our understanding of oceans and marine ecosystems.
6|Syed Marjuk CV
4. Act as a biologist in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on behalf of Chennai
Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) in the areas affected by oil spills in Ennore,
Chennai and Karaikal. The assessment focused on the impact of the spills on plankton
biodiversity and population.
5. Got the “Best Paper Presentation Award” from the Hajee Karutha Rowther Howdia College
for the National Conference on Latest Trends in Life Sciences; the award was presented on
26th September 2019.
6. Awarded first prize in the ZooFest 2018 quiz competition at Madurai American College,
demonstrating extensive zoology and animal conservation knowledge.
7. Completed Enrichment course on “Honeybee Rearing (Apiculture)” conducted by the
Department of Zoology, Hajee Karutha Rowther Howdia College, Uthamapalayam, from
January to March 2018 and passed the examination in April 2018.
8. I completed the “Mushroom cultivation” course under the community college scheme at
Hajee Karutha Rowther Howdia College, Uthamapalayam, in-. Received an honorary service certificate from the “National Service Scheme” for making
impactful contributions to various community awareness and service initiatives during 3
years of active volunteering, showcasing dedication and leadership abilities.
10. Presented paper entitled “Current Scenario of House Sparrow population of Chinnamanur,
Theni” at the national conference on Environmental Sustainability Health and Pollution
Abatement (NCESHPA-2020) organised by the Department of Zoology, M.S.S. Walk
Board College, Madurai held on 2nd March 2020.
11. I completed the “Basic Medical Lab Techniques with First Aid” certificate course at Sivam
Diagnostic Centre, Theni, in December 2019.
12. Oral presentation entitled “Decline House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) population effect
on Urbanization” at the one-day National Symposium on Biodiversity Perspective
sponsored by UGC organised at PG Department of Zoology & IQAC, Hajee Karutha
Rowther Howdia College, Uthamapalayam on 20th September 2018.
đź—Ł Conference, Workshops, Seminars, and Programmes Co-organized
1. “Mass Production of Marine Copepods and Cladocerans Culture (MPMCC-2022)”: Acted
as a co-executive member in organising this training program at the Department of Marine
Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli from August 29th to 31st, 2023. DBT
Govt of India sponsored the program.
2. “Innovative Approaches for Sustaining Indian Fisheries and Aquaculture”: Co-organized
this workshop jointly with The Fisheries Technocrats Forum, Chennai and the Department
of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University on September 12-13, 2023.
3. “Environmental Monitoring Using advanced analytical and Molecular Tools”: Coexecuted this National Level Training Programme from November 9th to 15th, 2022. DSTSTUTI sponsored the program.
4. “Marine Bioresources and Pollutant Biomarkers”: Acted as a co-executive member in
organising this National Level Training Programme from October 13th to 19th, 2022. DSTSTUTI sponsored the program.
7|Syed Marjuk CV
5. “Marine Aquaponics”: Co-organized this training cum awareness program on August 8th,
2022.
6. “Mass Production of Marine Live Feeds Culture (MPMLF-2022)”: Co-executed this
training program at the Department of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University,
Tiruchirappalli from August 22nd to 26th, 2022.
7. “High-Density Continuous Production of Marine Copepods (HDCPMC-22)”: Acted as a
co-executive member in organising this virtual workshop at the Department of Marine
Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli on April 6th & 7th, 2022.
8. “Sustainable Aquaculture Technologies (SAT-2021)”: I co-organized this virtual lecture
workshop held from August 9th to 14th, 2021, at the Department of Marine Science, School
of Marine Sciences, Bharathidasan University.
Conferences, Workshops, Seminars, and Programmes Presented
1. Presented a paper in the “International Conference on Frontiers in Marine Sciences –
MARICON 2024 organized by school of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science
and Technology, Kerala, India, held from April 08-10, 2024.
Conferences, Workshops, Seminars, and Programmes Participated
1. “Sequestration of Carbon Dioxide and Mitigation of Impact of Climate Change on Marine
Biodiversity” National Conference: Participated in this conference held at CAS in Marine
Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai- 608502,
Tamilnadu, India on 5th and 6th January 2023.
2. “Research Methodology” Summer Workshop: Participated in this workshop held at the
School Of Life Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, Tamilnadu, India from
11th to 19th February 2022.
3. “Lobster Culture (Brackishwater Aquaculture)” Training Program: Participated in this
program sponsored by “National Fisheries Development Broad- Pradhan Mantri Matsya
Sampada Yojana Training Program” at Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology,
Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai, Tamil Nadu from 24th
to 26th February 2022.
4. “Recent Science Scenario in Blue Biotechnology” National Seminar: Participated in this
seminar held at the Department of Marine Science, School of Marine Sciences,
Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli-24 in Association with DST-PURSE on 23rd &
24th March 2022.
5. “Fisheries-Current Status and Way Forward for Sustainability” National Webinar:
Participated in this webinar organised by Fisheries Technocrats Forum, Chennai-600 035,
in Coordination with the Marine Planktonology & Aquaculture Laboratory, Department of
Marine Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli-620 024, Tamil Nadu on 15th
& 16th September 2021.
6. “Challenges & Issues in Coastal and Ocean Research (CICOR 2021)” International Virtual
Lecture Workshop: Participated in this workshop held at the Department of Marine
Science, School of Marine Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli-24 from
20th to 22nd September 2021.
8|Syed Marjuk CV
7. “Marine Bioprospecting and its Role in Challengeable Disease-21 (MBCD-21)” National
Virtual Conference: Participated in this conference held at the Department of Marine
Science, School of Marine Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli-24 on
October 11-12, 2021.
8. “Challenges and Strategies in Sustainable Aquaculture” National Workshop: Participated
in this workshop organised by Centre for Aquaculture, Col. Dr. Jeppiaar Research Park,
Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai-600 119 in association with
CAS in Marine Biology, Annamalai University, Parangipettai-608502 from 25th to 30th
October 2021.
9. “Indian Ocean Palaeoceanography: Late Glacial - Holocene Period” National Webinar:
Participated in this webinar sponsored by DST-PURSE, Government of India and held at
Department of Marine Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu on
December 29th - 30th December 2021.
10. Participated in the UGC-sponsored “Hands-on Training in PCR Techniques” held at G.T.N
Arts College, Dindigul, on 5th March 2019.
Additional activities
Professional Development and Leadership
1. Demonstrated expertise in wildlife conservation and education through multiple
speaking engagements and professional activities:
2. Successfully presented research on avian conservation and wildlife management at the
prestigious "TAMIL BIRDERS MEET" in Theni district, engaging with leading
ornithologists and wildlife experts to discuss best practices in bird monitoring and habitat
preservation.
3. Delivered expert presentations at international conferences focusing on environmental
diversity and wildlife conservation, showcasing deep knowledge of fauna management
and environmental protection strategies.
4. Conducted specialized educational sessions at various institutions, sharing expertise on
avian biology, wildlife behaviour, and conservation methodologies, demonstrating
strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
Leadership and Community Engagement
1. Managed administrative responsibilities as class representative for five consecutive years
during B.Sc and M.Sc programs, coordinating between faculty and students while ensuring
efficient communication and program delivery.
2. Contributed to community development through active participation in the National
Service Scheme (NSS) from 2015 to 2018, developing valuable experience in project
coordination and stakeholder management.
3. Served as a volunteer coordinator at the XLVI Indian Social Science Congress,
demonstrating ability to work effectively in large-scale organizational settings and manage
complex logistics.
9|Syed Marjuk CV
Personal Details:
Father’s Name
: Mr. M. Mohamed Koya
Mother Name
: Mrs. M. Malika Banu
Date of Birth
:-
Sex
: Male
Nationality
: Indian
Marital Status
: Married
Religion
: Muslim
Languages Known: Tamil, English, Malayalam
Address
:133, Samikulam 2nd street, Chinnamanur-625515, Theni, Tamilnadu, India.
Reference:
1. Mr. Srinivas R. Reddy, IFS
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests &
Chief Wildlife Warden,
Government of Tamilnadu Forest Department,
Tamil Nadu, India.
Email:-
2. Dr. Vekata Mahalakshmi D
Scientist,
Earth and Climate Sciences Area (ECSA),
National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC),
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO),
Hyderabad- 500 037, Telangana, India.
Email:--
Declaration
At this time, I certify that all assertions contained in the Curriculum Vitae are truthful to the
best of my knowledge.
Place: Tiruchirappalli
Date:-
Yours sincere,
(M. SYED MARJUK)
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