About the authors
Dr. Srikant N
Dr. Srikant N is Professor and Head of the Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology at Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore, where he also coordinates the Center for Forensic Odontology. With over 16 years of professional experience, he holds an MDS in Oral Pathology, Microbiology & Forensic Odontology, a Fellowship in Forensic Odontology, and certification in Biostatistics and Research Methodology from Harvard University. His impressive research portfolio includes authoring 7 textbooks and publishing over 260 scientific papers with approximately 1,000 citations, achieving an h-index of 13. Dr. Srikant has been recognized with multiple Dr. TMA Pai Gold Medals for Research, Good Teacher Awards, and has filed five patents in forensic odontology, morphometry, and telepathology. Currently pursuing his PhD at Manipal Academy of Higher Education, he remains dedicated to his motto of continuous learning and knowledge dissemination through gained experience.
Dr. Shivani Bhandari
Dr. Shivani Bhandari is a dental professional with expertise in Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and Oral Microbiology, holding BDS and MDS degrees from Santosh Dental College and Hospital. Currently serving as a Senior Medical Officer in the insurance sector, she applies her clinical knowledge to healthcare policy implementation. Dr. Bhandari is passionate about mentoring dental students, particularly guiding them toward diverse career paths beyond traditional clinical practice. As an active speaker and educator, she regularly delivers lectures and webinars across various platforms. Her professional vision focuses on equipping healthcare professionals with both clinical expertise and industry insights to enable informed career decisions. Dr. Bhandari remains committed to continuous learning while fostering awareness, innovation, and improvement in healthcare education and practice.