Dr. Surabhi Tomar’s research focuses on understanding and manipulating molecular pathways in plants to enhance stress tolerance and improve yield. Her Ph.D. work addressed the functional characterization of CBS domain–containing proteins (CDCPs) in rice, a largely unexplored protein family in plants. Using in silico datasets and qRT-PCR analysis, she identified key genes responsive to developmental and stress cues in contrasting rice genotypes. She successfully raised the overexpression lines for selected CDCP members for in depth study, including localization, protein-protein interactions, bio-layer interferometry, and functional validation through stress assays. In another work, Dr. Tomar applied CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to develop rice genotypes with a multi-floret trait, aiming to increase grain number, size, and biomass. This project also investigates developmental gene cross-talk and the shift from determinate to indeterminate growth in spikelets. Her research blends molecular genetics, plant physiology, genome engineering, and bioinformatics, with a strong focus on translating basic science into sustainable agricultural solutions. In tomato, she applied genome editing to improve shelf life and reduce seed size by targeting key transcription factors. Integrating molecular genetics, plant physiology, genome engineering, and bioinformatics, her research bridges fundamental plant biology and applied crop science to advance sustainable agriculture.