Dr. A. Maruthi Rao (b. 1st June, 1962) obtained M.Sc. (1987) and Ph.D. (1991) in Botany from Kakatiya University, A.P. Worked as Junior Research Fellow (UGC) 1987-1988; Senior Research Fellow (CSIR) 1988-1991 and Research Associate (CSIR) 1991-1996. He has 19 years of teaching experience at both U.G and P.G. levels. His areas of research include Plant Cell and Tissue Culture, Plant Molecular Biology, Genetic Engineering, Agricultural Biotechnology and currently handling a Major Research Project funded by DST, New Delhi. He has 30 research publications to his credit published in international and national journals. He authored about 10 books which have been well received by the academic community. Dr. A.M. Rao is also associated with various administrative functions in Telangana University such as Programme Coordinator - NSS (2010-till date); Director, Directorate of Admissions (2007-2008); Head, Department of Botany (2007-2008); and Warden, University Hostels (2008- 2010). He is an active member of many learned societies and academic bodies.