Manoj Nayak | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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

CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation- India

Author Profile

🎓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.

Citations

A total of 714 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         714
  • h-index           38
  • i10-index        13

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Highly sensitive and selective electrochemical detection of Aflatoxin B1 in water and Pistachio samples with MOF/MXene composite based sensor
    Authors: Kaur, G., Sharma, S., Bhardwaj, N., Nayak, M.K., Deep, A.
    Journal: Food Control
    Year: 2024
  • Title: Quality evaluation of strawberries coated with water-in-oil based emulsion using an advanced electrostatic spray coating system
    Authors: Sohel, A., Rani, R., Mehta, D., Nayak, M.K., Patel, M.K.
    Journal: Journal of Food Science and Technology
    Year: 2024
  • Title: Development of cobalt oxide and titanium carbide based composite for microwave absorption in X-band
    Authors: Ahlawat, A., Bala, M., Nayak, M.K., Tyagi, S.
    Journal: Materials Science and Engineering: B
    Year: 2024
  • Title: Simple fluorochromic detection of chromium with ascorbic acid functionalized luminescent Bio-MOF-1
    Authors: Kaur, G., Sharma, S., Bhardwaj, N., Nayak, M.K., Deep, A.
    Journal: Nanoscale
    Year: 2024
  • Title: Reusable magnetic graphene oxide based anion exchanger for the separation and removal of anionic dyes
    Authors: Kumari, P., Disha, N., Rani, R., Singhai, S., Nayak, M.K.
    Journal: New Journal of Chemistry
    Year: 2023.

Dr.M.Rajasekar | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dr. M. Rajasekar | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology- India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. M. Rajasekar, M.Sc., M.Phil, M.Ed., Ph.D., embarked on his academic journey with a profound passion for chemistry and a dedication to excellence. He completed his B.Sc. in Chemistry (First Class) from Arignar Anna Govt. Arts College, Cheyyar, affiliated with the University of Madras, Thiruvannamalai, India. His early academic success laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors. He pursued an M.Sc. in Chemistry (First Class) from C. Abdul Hakeem College, Melvisharam, affiliated with Thiruvalluvar University, Vellore, India. Furthering his expertise, Dr. Rajasekar obtained an M.Phil. in Inorganic Chemistry (First Class-Outstanding) from the Department of Chemistry, The New College, affiliated with the University of Madras, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. M. Rajasekar, currently a Scientist ‘C’/Assistant Professor (Research) in the Synthetic Organic & Medicinal Chemistry Lab at the Centre for Molecular and Nanomedical Sciences, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University), Chennai – 600119, has an extensive professional background. His journey in academia and research is marked by significant contributions and leadership roles. From August 2018 to the present, he has served as a Scientist “C” at the Centre for Molecular and Nanomedical Sciences, International Research Centre, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai. Prior to this, he was a Postdoctoral Fellow from July 2016 to July 2018 at the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology. Additionally, he worked as a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, Anna University, Chennai, from August 26, 2008, to December 18, 2008.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. M. Rajasekar’s research interests are vast and impactful, spanning synthetic organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and nanomedicine. His work in the development of novel compounds and materials has significant implications for biomedical applications. His research has led to numerous publications in high-impact journals, showcasing his expertise and innovative approaches. Notable publications include studies on photoresponsive zinc sensors, anticancer flavonoid derivatives, and photoluminescent pyrene derivatives. His work on fluorescent-based chemosensors and COVID-19 protease inhibitors has garnered attention for its relevance and potential in addressing current global challenges.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. M. Rajasekar’s excellence in research and academia has been recognized through various awards and honors. In 2023, he received the Best Scientist Award from the Nature Science Foundation, Coimbatore. His contributions to scientific literature have earned him a position as a Reviewer Panel Member for RSC Advances, Royal Society of Chemistry in 2022. He has also received multiple certificates of reviewing from prestigious journals such as the Journal of Molecular Structure, Optical Materials, Optik, and Optics & Laser Technology. His fellowship accolades include the National Postdoc Fellowship by DST-SERB, DSK Postdoc Fellowship by UGC, and Nehru Postdoc Fellowship by CSIR, all awarded in 2016.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Rajasekar’s work has had a profound impact on the scientific community and beyond. His research in nanomedicine and synthetic organic chemistry has paved the way for new advancements in biomedical applications, contributing to the development of more effective diagnostic and therapeutic tools. His patents, including those on nanostructures of nickel oxide for high-performance supercapacitors and solid-state symmetric supercapacitors using graphene-derived nickel-copper metal-oxide nanocomposites, demonstrate his innovative contributions to material science and technology.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. M. Rajasekar continues to push the boundaries of research and innovation. His ongoing projects and future endeavors hold promise for further advancements in chemistry and nanomedicine. His dedication to mentoring young scientists and fostering a collaborative research environment ensures that his legacy will inspire future generations of researchers.

Citations

A total of 305 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations        305
  • h-index           29
  • i10-index        10

Notable Publications 

Revisiting diosmin for their potential biological properties and applications

Revisiting diosmin for their potential biological properties and applications

Recent developments in sunscreens based on chromophore compounds and nanoparticles

Review on anticancer activity of flavonoid derivatives: Recent developments and future perspectives

Goutam Ghosh | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Goutam Ghosh | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS)- India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Goutam Ghosh, currently a Ramanujan Faculty (Assistant Professor) at the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) in Bengaluru, India, has an impressive academic background that laid a solid foundation for his research career. Born on April 2, 1986, in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, Dr. Ghosh pursued his B.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Calcutta, graduating in 2006 with a respectable 60.875%. He continued at the same university to complete his M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry in 2008, achieving 71.6%.

Dr. Ghosh’s Ph.D. journey began in 2009 at Presidency College, now Presidency University, affiliated with the University of Calcutta. Under the guidance of Professor Dipak Kumar Mandal, he focused on the folding and structure of proteins and peptides, culminating in his thesis titled “Folding and Structure of Proteins and Peptides: Studies with Plant Lectins” in 2014. His early research provided him with extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of protein chemistry, setting the stage for his future endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

After obtaining his Ph.D., Dr. Ghosh embarked on a series of postdoctoral research projects that significantly broadened his expertise and research scope. From February 2015 to March 2019, he worked under Professor Suhrit Ghosh at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science in Kolkata, focusing on the School of Applied and Interdisciplinary Sciences. He then moved to Germany, where he continued his postdoctoral research at the Organisch-Chemisches Institut, Westfälische Wilhelms Universität (WWU) Münster, under the mentorship of Professor Gustavo Fernández from April 2019 to September 2022. His international experience expanded further with a brief stint as a visiting student at Kyoto University, Japan, in September 2017.

Upon returning to India, Dr. Ghosh joined the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research in Bangalore, working with Professor Tapas Kumar Maji until March 2023. Subsequently, he took up his current position at CeNS, where he continues to contribute significantly to the field of chemistry and nanoscience.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ghosh’s research has been diverse, encompassing various aspects of chemistry and material science. His work can be broadly categorized into three major areas:

Part A – Proteins and Peptides

Dr. Ghosh has conducted extensive research on the solid-phase synthesis of peptides and their self-assembling behaviors, with a keen interest in their biological applications. His studies on protein folding and unfolding pathways, particularly involving lectin proteins from plant and animal sources, have been groundbreaking.

Part B – Polymer Synthesis

He has synthesized custom-designed amphiphilic block copolymers through techniques such as Ring-Opening Polymerization (ROP) and Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT). His work in this area focuses on the supramolecular assembly of these polymers through directional interactions.

Part C – Organic Molecule Synthesis and Supramolecular Polymerization

Dr. Ghosh has developed H-bonding functionalized π-chromophores and peptide-functionalized metal complexes, exploring their pathway complexity and controlled supramolecular polymerization. His current research at CeNS focuses on the controlled supramolecular assembly of amphiphilic π-systems and peptides, aiming at applications ranging from materials to biomedicine.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Ghosh’s contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. Notably, he received the prestigious Ramanujan Fellowship from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Government of India, in 2023. He was also honored as an Honorary Assistant Professor by the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) in 2023. His research excellence was acknowledged with the Young Researcher Award from the Institute of Scholars (InSc) in 2022, and he has received multiple awards for his poster presentations at international conferences.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Ghosh’s research has had a profound impact on the scientific community, particularly in the fields of supramolecular chemistry and polymer science. His work has been published in numerous high-impact journals, and he has served as a reviewer for prestigious publications like Nature Communications, Advanced Materials, and Chemistry – A European Journal. His contributions have advanced the understanding of peptide self-assembly, polymerization mechanisms, and the development of functional materials for biomedical applications.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Ghosh’s legacy is marked by his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of researchers. At CeNS, he leads a research group comprising PhD scholars and R&D assistants, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. His ongoing projects and publications continue to push the boundaries of chemistry and nanoscience, promising significant contributions to the field in the years to come.

Citations

A total of 577 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         577
  • h-index           26
  • i10-index        13

Notable Publications 

Direct participation of solvent molecules in the formation of supramolecular polymers

G Ghosh, A Chakraborty, P Pal, B Jana, S Ghosh
Chemistry–A European Journal
Supramolecular polymerization of electronically complementary linear motifs: anti-cooperativity by attenuated growth

Y Dorca, C Naranjo, G Ghosh, B Soberats, J Calbo, E Ortí, G Fernández, …
Chemical Science
Anticooperative Supramolecular Oligomerization Mediated by V‐Shaped Monomer Design and Unconventional Hydrogen Bonds

B Matarranz, S Díaz‐Cabrera, G Ghosh, I Carreira‐Barral, B Soberats, …
Angewandte Chemie International Edition