Ladakh Mycologist Dr Konchok Dorjey conferred with UT State Award for Science Research

LEH: University of Ladakh Assistant Professor Dr Konchok Dorjey has been conferred the UT Ladakh State Award for his contributions to science education, academic mentorship and botanical research in the Trans-Himalayan region, including pioneering work on high-altitude fungi and wild mushroom diversity.

Dr Dorjey, from the Department of Botany, is recognised as the first mycologist from Ladakh to undertake systematic research on the region’s high-altitude fungal and wild mushroom diversity. His research has documented macrofungi distribution, ecological substrate preferences and ethnomycology, linking scientific classification with traditional Ladakhi knowledge, culture and indigenous medicine.

His academic work has also extended to plant documentation. He co-authored Plants of Ladakh – A Photographic Guide, a field resource aimed at documenting and supporting the conservation of indigenous plant species of the region.

Dr Dorjey also played a central role in establishing the first Mushroom Cultivation Unit at EJM College, Leh, providing students practical exposure to fungal cultivation techniques, sustainable biotechnology and livelihood applications.

To make botanical taxonomy and plant identification more accessible to students, he introduced the “Wall of Herbarium” learning approach, using visual and practical methods to simplify complex botanical concepts.

Reacting to the award, Dr Dorjey said teaching science in Ladakh’s ecologically distinct landscape required connecting classroom learning with the natural environment. He dedicated the recognition to his students, academic colleagues and the scientific community engaged in conserving the region’s natural heritage.

Academic leaders and public representatives congratulated Dr Dorjey, commending his contribution to higher education and scientific research at the University of Ladakh and its constituent colleges.

The award recognises his combined contribution to science pedagogy, student mentorship, applied learning and research into the Trans-Himalayan region’s botanical and fungal diversity.