Herpetologist, wildlife biologist, & animal behaviorist working on conservation research of endangered species.
With a dynamic career in wildlife conservation and animal management that spans
over two decades, Soham is a seasoned professional with an array of rich
experiences under his belt. Beginning his journey as a Wildlife Rehabilitator at
Animal Help Foundation in Ahmedabad, India from 2003 to 2008, he honed his skills
while working closely with native reptiles, birds, and small mammals. Alongside his
wife, Akanksha, he pioneered the creation of standard guidelines for wildlife
rehabilitation of Ahmedabad's native species.
Soham further cemented his expertise in herpetology during his tenure as Assistant
Curator at the Centre for Herpetology/Madras Crocodile Bank Trust between 2008
and 2010. Here, he developed innovative enrichment and behavioural training
programs for crocodilians and other reptiles.
In 2011, he facilitated field biology and herpetology workshops at The Gerry Martin
Project, simultaneously participating in venom research field expeditions. His vast
knowledge led him to serve as a consultant to Humane Society International from
2012 to 2014, providing training and guidance in animal management for
conservation projects across South and Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Between 2013 and 2015, Soham played a crucial role in the Gharial Ecology Project
at the National Chambal Sanctuary. He continued his work with gharials in the
following years, conducting successful capture and radio-tagging operations in
Chitwan National Park, Nepal, and at Nandankanan Zoo.
Soham's portfolio is replete with diverse wildlife research and management projects,
including crocodile ecology and hormones, human-crocodile conflict mitigation,
snake-bite mitigation, wildlife roadkill mitigation, and herpetofaunal assessments in
Western Ghats and Arunachal Pradesh. His contributions to wildlife management
training and advisory roles in various facilities within India and internationally
underline his leadership and mentorship qualities.
Currently, he serves as a core team member of Life Science Education Trust and
operates a private animal education centre. He fosters empathy for animals among
children and adults alike by providing engaging animal interaction experiences.
Soham holds esteemed memberships with the IUCN SSC Viper Specialist Group,
Snake Specialist Group, and the Crocodile Specialist Group. As a core member of
the Snakebite Management Task Force under the Government of Gujarat, he
continues to make significant contributions to the field. His published articles and
notes in journals and magazines further underline his commitment to animal care,
husbandry, conservation, and management.
