Assoc Prof Dr. Manoj Nayak | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation- India

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Manoj Kumar Nayak embarked on his academic journey with a solid foundation in chemistry. He earned his B.Sc. in Chemistry (Hons.) from Utkal University, Orissa, in 1995. His academic excellence continued as he pursued an M.Sc. in Chemistry from Sambalpur University, Jyoti Vihar, Odisha, in 1997. Driven by a passion for deeper knowledge, Dr. Nayak completed his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur in 2004. His research during this period laid the groundwork for his future contributions to the field of chemistry and materials science.

🧪Professional Endeavors

Dr. Nayak’s professional journey is marked by a series of esteemed positions and significant contributions. He began his career as a DBT Postdoctoral Fellow at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, working on fluorescent molecular probes. His postdoctoral research took him to international destinations, including Seoul National University, South Korea, where he delved into sol-gel thin film formation and polymer self-assembly as a BK 21 Postdoctoral Researcher. This was followed by stints at the University of Victoria, Canada, and Texas A&M University, Qatar, where he explored molecular photoswitching systems and nanocomposites with enhanced optical properties.In 2012, Dr. Nayak joined the CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIR-CSIO) in Chandigarh, India, as a Senior Scientist in the Materials Research Division, Agrionics. Here, he has been at the forefront of advancing materials and micro/nano science and engineering, making significant strides in the field.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Nayak’s research spans several cutting-edge areas, including:

1. Photocatalysis Activities & Solar Cell Applications: Developing materials for enhanced solar energy conversion and environmental remediation.
2. Nanocontact Sensors for Trace Analysis: Innovating sensors to detect carcinogens, heavy metals, essential elements, pesticides, and pathogens with improved binding and removal efficiencies.
3. Biosensors for Point-of-Care Diagnostics: Creating biosensors for rapid and accurate medical diagnostics.
4. Light Harvesting, Rechargeable Battery, Self-Healing, and Vapochromic Materials: Investigating advanced materials for energy storage, self-repair, and environmental sensing applications.

🏅Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Nayak’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including:

• Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) – 1998: Scoring in the 89.5 percentile under MHRD, Government of India.
• Graduate Research Fellowship, IIT Kanpur: Acknowledging his research potential during his doctoral studies.
• Department of Bio-Technology Postdoctoral Fellowship (DBT-PDF), 2005: Under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India.
• Brain Korea 21 (BK-21) Postdoctoral Fellowship, 2005–2007: From the National Government of South Korea.
• NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Victoria: Highlighting his research excellence in Canada.
• National Priorities Research Program (NPRP) Fellowship, Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF): Supporting his postdoctoral research from 2008 to 2012.

🌍Impact and Influence

Dr. Nayak’s work has had a profound impact on both academic research and practical applications. His innovations in sensor technology and materials science have paved the way for advancements in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and energy storage solutions. His research on photocatalysis and solar cell applications contributes significantly to sustainable energy solutions, addressing critical global challenges.

🌟Legacy and Future Contributions

As a Sr. Scientist & Assistant Professor at AcSIR, Dr. Nayak’s legacy is built on a foundation of pioneering research and academic mentorship. His involvement with professional societies such as the American Chemical Society and the Chemical Research Society of India, along with his role as a frequent manuscript reviewer for high-impact journals, underscores his influence in the scientific community.Looking ahead, Dr. Nayak is poised to continue his contributions to science and technology. His future work promises to further advance the fields of nanotechnology, materials science, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that his legacy endures through innovative research and impactful discoveries.