Dr Khushbu Kumari joins NZCIEL as a research affiliate
Dr Khushbu Kumari joins NZCIEL as a research affiliate, bringing expertise in intellectual property law with a focus on pharmaceuticals, patent law and regulatory data protection. Her recent PhD examines the implications of data exclusivity for India’s pharmaceutical sector and public health framework.
The New Zealand Centre of International Economic Law (NZCIEL) is pleased to welcome Dr Khushbu Kumari as a research affiliate. Dr Kumari brings to the Centre a strong background in intellectual property law, with a particular focus on patent law, clinical trial data protection, pharmaceutical regulation and agri-biotechnology. Her research critically examines how intellectual property regimes intersect with innovation, public health and regulatory frameworks in developing countries.
Dr Kumari has recently completed her PhD at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington. Her thesis, “Reassessing the Data Exclusivity Regime for Indian Pharmaceutical Industry”, examines the role of data exclusivity in drug regulation and reassesses its relevance for India’s pharmaceutical sector. It considers external trade pressures, the potential impact on generic competition and access to medicines, and how such a shift could affect the balance India has sought to maintain between innovation and public health in its patent system.
Prior to joining NZCIEL, Dr Kumari held a number of academic and research positions. She is currently a Lecturer at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, where she has also worked as a Research Assistant. She has previously served as a Research Fellow at the National Law University, Delhi and at the Centre for WTO Studies. Earlier in her career, she taught as an Assistant Professor at Kalinga University.
At NZCIEL, Dr Kumari will contribute to the Centre’s research on intellectual property, pharmaceuticals and regulatory law, especially in relation to global trade, public health and the Global South. Her interdisciplinary experience and regional knowledge strengthen NZCIEL’s ongoing work on inclusive and development-oriented approaches to international economic law.
We are delighted to welcome Dr Kumari to NZCIEL and look forward to her contributions to our research, events and broader engagement.