Vikash Kumar | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vikash Kumar | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Technology, Calicut, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Vikash Kumar’s academic journey is a tale of perseverance and brilliance, laying the foundation for his illustrious career. Born and raised in India, he pursued his Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Mechanical Engineering from Dr. B. C. Roy Engineering College, Durgapur (2009-2013). During this phase, his curiosity for engineering principles and problem-solving was evident through his thesis, “Study and Analysis of Cooling Tower” under the guidance of Dr. Pabitra Mondal, graduating with an impressive CPI of 8.08.

To further hone his skills, Dr. Kumar enrolled in the M.Tech program in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Manufacturing at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (ISM) Dhanbad (2013-2015). His thesis, “Fiber Laser Welding of Thin Nickel Sheets in Air and Water Medium”, under Dr. Alok Kumar Das, showcased his ability to address complex challenges in laser welding technology. With an exceptional CPI of 9.52, his academic achievements during this phase reflected his dedication and precision.

Driven by a passion for innovation, he embarked on his doctoral studies at Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (August 2015-May 2020). Under the mentorship of Prof. U. S. Dixit, he explored cutting-edge research in his thesis titled, “Modeling and Optimization of Single-Pass Laser Bending with Inverse Estimation”. This pivotal work not only demonstrated his expertise in advanced manufacturing techniques but also set the stage for impactful contributions to the field. 🌎

Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut, Dr. Kumar is deeply committed to fostering knowledge and innovation. His teaching philosophy emphasizes clarity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning, inspiring the next generation of engineers. 🎓

Through his tenure, Dr. Kumar has actively engaged in interdisciplinary projects, collaborative research, and curriculum development, aligning academic frameworks with the evolving demands of the manufacturing sector. His dedication to bridging the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application is evident in his students’ success. 🌟

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kumar’s research primarily revolves around advanced manufacturing processes, with a special emphasis on laser-based manufacturing techniques, inverse modeling, and optimization methodologies. His pioneering work in laser bending has paved the way for innovations in manufacturing industries, providing sustainable and efficient solutions.

In his M.Tech thesis, he delved into fiber laser welding, exploring its applications in different media (air and water). This study has had implications for industries where precision welding of delicate materials is critical, such as aerospace and electronics. Similarly, his Ph.D. research on single-pass laser bending addresses challenges in precision forming, offering optimization strategies that enhance material performance while minimizing waste. ⚖️

Dr. Kumar is also an advocate of sustainable manufacturing practices and explores methodologies that integrate eco-friendly processes without compromising on efficiency and output. His work embodies a vision of innovation that aligns with global sustainability goals. ♻️

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Kumar’s contributions have garnered recognition in academic and professional circles. His exemplary academic performance during his M.Tech and Ph.D. earned him accolades from his mentors and peers alike. As a researcher, he has presented papers at esteemed national and international conferences, earning appreciation for his insightful analyses and robust methodologies. ⚡

Beyond academia, he has collaborated with industrial partners, translating his research findings into practical applications, further amplifying the impact of his work. 🛠️

Impact and Influence

Dr. Kumar’s work has significantly influenced the field of laser-based manufacturing and optimization techniques, inspiring researchers and practitioners alike. His ability to combine rigorous theoretical frameworks with real-world applications has established him as a thought leader in his domain. 🌍

As a mentor, he has guided numerous students, fostering a culture of innovation and inquiry. Many of his mentees have gone on to pursue advanced studies and careers in mechanical engineering, further extending his influence. His teaching and research contributions resonate not just within his institution but also across the broader academic community. 🎓

Legacy and Future Contributions

With a strong foundation and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Dr. Vikash Kumar continues to shape the future of mechanical engineering. His ongoing projects in modeling and simulation, advanced manufacturing systems, and sustainable practices hold promise for groundbreaking advancements in the field.

As an Assistant Professor at NIT Calicut, he envisions transforming the department into a hub of innovation, fostering collaborations with global researchers, and mentoring students to achieve academic and professional excellence. His dedication to research, teaching, and community engagement positions him as a role model for aspiring engineers and educators. ✨

Citations

A total of 152 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations        152
  • h-index          17
  • i10-index       08

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Selection and Optimization of Process Parameters During Multi-Pass Laser Bending Process
    Authors: Nikhil, P., Kumar, V., Arun Babu, K.
    Journal: Optics and Laser Technology
    Year: 2025.
  • Title: Optimization of Battery Tab Interconnects by Micro-TIG Welding Using Simulated Annealing Algorithm and Response Surface Method
    Authors: Sai, M. B., Mondal, S. C., Kumar, V.
    Journal: Smart Innovation, Systems, and Technologies
    Year: 2023.
  • Title: Modeling and Optimization of Laser Tube Bending Process
    Authors: Kumar, V., Anthikapalli, B., Pal, B., Kuriachen, B.
    Journal: Laser Applications in Manufacturing
    Year: 2023.
  • Title: Directed Energy Deposition of Ni-Based Hard-Facing Alloy
    Authors: Kumar, V., Shrivastava, A., Chakraborty, S. S., Mukherjee, S.
    Journal: Laser Applications in Manufacturing
    Year: 2023.
  • Title: Joining Techniques Like Welding in Lightweight Material Structures
    Authors: Kumar, V., Kumar, P., Das, A. K.
    Journal: Laser Applications in Manufacturing
    Year: 2023.

BALARAM KUNDU | Mechanical Engineering | Academic Excellence in Innovation Award

Prof Dr. BALARAM KUNDU | Mechanical Engineering | Academic Excellence in Innovation Award

Jadavpur University, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Balaram Kundu’s academic journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence in mechanical engineering. His foundational years were marked by exemplary achievements, beginning with his Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) from the prestigious Regional Engineering College Durgapur (now NIT Durgapur) in 1993, where he graduated with first-class honors, achieving a remarkable 70.5%.

Driven by his passion for thermal engineering, Dr. Kundu pursued his Master of Engineering (Thermal Engineering) at Bengal Engineering College (now IIEST Shibpur) in 1995, securing first-class distinction with an impressive 77.8%. This academic rigor set the stage for his doctoral studies, and in February 2000, he earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Engineering from the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, India. His doctoral research laid a robust foundation for his future contributions to thermal engineering and mechanical systems.


Professional Endeavors 🏢

Dr. Kundu’s career trajectory reflects his dedication to teaching, research, and academic leadership. Beginning in April 1998 as a Reader in Mechanical Engineering at Jadavpur University, he quickly established himself as a skilled educator and researcher. His teaching journey progressed as follows:

  • Lecturer (Senior Scale) at Jadavpur University (2003–2008), where he expanded his teaching portfolio and research collaborations.
  • Lecturer at Jalpaiguri Government Engineering College (2008–2011), where he honed his mentoring abilities and inspired young engineers.
  • Promoted to Associate Professor in 2011, he continued his impactful work at Jadavpur University until his promotion to Professor in 2014.

At Jadavpur University, Dr. Kundu has been instrumental in shaping the Department of Mechanical Engineering, fostering innovation in teaching and mentoring a generation of aspiring engineers.


Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Kundu’s research interests center on thermal engineering, focusing on topics like heat transfer, thermodynamics, and energy efficiency. His work bridges the theoretical and practical aspects of mechanical engineering, offering solutions to complex thermal problems.

Key highlights of his research:

  • Pioneering Work on Thermal Systems: His investigations into advanced thermal systems have contributed to sustainable energy practices.
  • Publications and Collaborations: Dr. Kundu has authored numerous papers in reputed journals, collaborating with researchers worldwide to advance knowledge in mechanical engineering.
  • Education and Innovation: His expertise in heat transfer and thermodynamics has influenced curriculum development, making education more relevant to industrial applications.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Kundu’s excellence has earned him several accolades throughout his career:

  • Recognition as a leading academic in mechanical engineering.
  • Invitations to conferences as a speaker and panelist, showcasing his thought leadership.
  • Esteemed reviewer for top-tier journals, contributing to academic rigor in his field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Kundu’s influence extends beyond the classroom. His contributions have shaped the academic and professional lives of students, many of whom hold prominent positions in academia and industry. By integrating research insights into teaching, he has ensured that his students are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.

Additionally, his commitment to mentoring young researchers has fostered a culture of innovation at Jadavpur University. His research findings have informed policy-making and industrial practices, addressing critical challenges in energy efficiency and mechanical systems.


Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Dr. Kundu’s legacy lies in his dedication to advancing mechanical engineering through research, teaching, and mentorship. Looking forward, he aims to:

  • Expand his research into sustainable energy systems and emerging technologies in thermal engineering.
  • Develop interdisciplinary collaborations to address global challenges in energy and environmental sustainability.
  • Continue mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers, leaving an indelible mark on academia and industry.

With a career spanning decades, Dr. Kundu’s commitment to knowledge and innovation makes him a luminary in his field. His journey inspires students and professionals alike, exemplifying the values of hard work, curiosity, and lifelong learning. 🌟

Citations

A total of 2,867 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations        2,867
  • h-index          140
  • i10-index       34

Notable Publications 

  • Title: A review of applications of green nanofluids for performance improvement of solar collectors
    Authors: Dewanjee, D., Kundu, B.
    Journal: Renewable Energy
    Year: 2025.
  • Title: Two-Dimensional Analysis of Absorber Plates in Solar Collectors with a Nonlinear Plate Temperature at the Tube Section
    Authors: Mahakud, J., Kundu, B.
    Journal: Energies
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Experimental and meta-heuristic optimization for the highest thermo-hydraulic performance of a solar air heater with a V-notch pattern of hemispherical protrusions on absorber surfaces
    Authors: Mahto, P.K., Kundu, B.
    Journal: International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Parametric optimization of solar air heaters with dimples on absorber plates using metaheuristic approaches
    Authors: Mahto, P.K., Das, P.P., Diyaley, S., Kundu, B.
    Journal: Applied Thermal Engineering
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: A Review of Artificial Intelligence Methods in Predicting Thermophysical Properties of Nanofluids for Heat Transfer Applications
    Authors: Basu, A., Saha, A., Banerjee, S., Roy, P.C., Kundu, B.
    Journal: Energies
    Year: 2024.

Anupam Agrawal | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Anupam Agrawal | Mechanical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Indian Institute of Technology Ropar-india

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Anupam Agrawal’s journey in the realm of Mechanical Engineering began with his foundational education in India. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Mechanical Engineering from M.M.M. Engineering College, Gorakhpur, U.P., in 2000. Following this, Dr. Agrawal pursued a Master of Technology (M.Tech.) in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Manufacturing Systems Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, graduating in 2002. His pursuit of knowledge and excellence led him to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, where he completed his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering in 2008. During his doctoral research, he focused on innovative manufacturing processes, laying the groundwork for his future contributions to the field.

Professional Endeavors 🌟

Dr. Agrawal’s professional career has been marked by a series of significant roles and achievements. He is currently a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Ropar, where he has been a pivotal figure since August 2024. Prior to this, he served as an Associate Professor at IIT Ropar from December 2015 to August 2024 and as an Assistant Professor from December 2010 to December 2015. His academic journey also includes a role as a Visiting Faculty at IIT Ropar and postdoctoral research at the International Center for Automotive Research (ICAR), Clemson University, USA, focusing on hybrid manufacturing processes.In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Agrawal has contributed significantly through his work as a Visiting Scholar at Northwestern University, USA, where he analyzed and experimented with Single Point Incremental Metal Forming Processes. His international experience and research have enriched his perspective and expertise in the field.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Agrawal’s research interests are diverse and impactful. His areas of expertise include Sheet Metal Forming, Dieless Forming, Incremental Sheet Forming, Deformation Machining, Micro-Electric Discharge Machining, Laser Machining, and Additive Manufacturing. His work in these areas aims to push the boundaries of manufacturing technology and improve the precision and efficiency of various processes.One of his notable projects involves the study of new forming techniques at both macro and micro scales, which has been supported by external funding from IIT Ropar. Additionally, he has made significant strides in Deformation Machining and biocompatible metallic implants, reflecting his commitment to advancing both practical and theoretical aspects of mechanical engineering.Dr. Agrawal has also been instrumental in developing new approaches for micro-incremental sheet forming and enhancing accuracy through artificial intelligence techniques, demonstrating his innovative approach to solving complex engineering problems.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Agrawal’s academic excellence is evident from his impressive performance in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2000, where he scored in the 98.74 percentile and secured an All India Rank of 132. His contributions to mechanical engineering have been recognized through various roles, including serving as an Associate Editor for SADHANA, the journal of the Indian Academy of Sciences, since October 2013. He is also a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and a reviewer for several prestigious journals, reflecting his standing in the academic community.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Agrawal’s impact extends beyond academia into practical applications. His research in incremental forming processes and additive manufacturing has influenced industry practices and contributed to advancements in manufacturing technologies. His work on enhancing the accuracy of roboforming and developing micro-manufacturing techniques has potential applications in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and biomedical engineering.His leadership in establishing and revamping laboratories at IIT Ropar, such as the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Laboratory and the Micromachining Lab, has provided essential resources for cutting-edge research and development in mechanical engineering.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Dr. Agrawal’s legacy is one of innovation and dedication to advancing mechanical engineering. His contributions have paved the way for future research in manufacturing processes and have influenced both academic and industrial practices. Looking ahead, his focus on developing new manufacturing techniques and exploring the integration of artificial intelligence in engineering processes promises to shape the future of the field.As he continues to mentor Ph.D. students and guide research projects, Dr. Agrawal’s influence is expected to grow, inspiring the next generation of engineers and researchers. His ongoing projects, including those focused on incremental forming and hybrid manufacturing processes, are likely to yield significant advancements and further his impact on the field.In summary, Dr. Anupam Agrawal’s career is characterized by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and a profound influence on the field of mechanical engineering. His work continues to inspire and advance the boundaries of technology, making significant contributions to both academia and industry.

Citations

A total of 1070 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations        1070
  • h-index           80
  • i10-index        15

Notable Publications 

  • Enhancing formability in Micro-Incremental sheet forming by a novel stacking method of ultra-thin sheets
    Pal, M., Agrawal, A., Nirala, C.K.
    Manufacturing Letters, 2024.
  • Surface quality enhancement of warm incremental forming process using solid lubricant with varying etching period
    Kumar, N., Upadhyay, R.K., Sharma, C.S., Agrawal, A.
    Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture, 2024.
  • Fabrication of drug-loaded graded porous Ti6Al4V structures for load-bearing biomedical applications
    Singh, M., Gill, A.S., Deol, P.K., Agrawal, A.
    Journal of Materials Research, 2024.
  • Bio-corrosion susceptibility of surface voids and pores in microwave sintered Ti-HAp based bio-composites
    Kumar, R., Agrawal, A.
    Materials Letters, 2024.
  • Adjustable link twist angle coupling for reconfigurable manipulator
    Kushwaha, A.K., Singla, E., Agrawal, A.
    Indian Journal of Engineering and Materials Sciences, 2024.

Jigna Kanojia | Physics | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Jigna Kanojia - Physics - Best Researcher Award 🏆 

Gujarat University - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

She embarked on her academic journey with a profound passion for unraveling the mysteries of the universe through the lens of physics. Her insatiable curiosity and thirst for knowledge led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Physics from Sardar Patel University, Gujarat. This foundational period laid the groundwork for her future academic endeavors, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the fundamental principles of physics.

Driven by her relentless pursuit of knowledge, she continued her academic journey by obtaining a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Physics from K.S.K.V. Kachchh University. During this period, she delved deeper into the intricacies of quantum mechanics, astrophysics, and thermodynamics, honing her analytical skills and expanding her understanding of the cosmos.

Professional Endeavors

Armed with a solid academic foundation, she transitioned into the realm of education, eager to share her passion for physics with aspiring young minds. She embarked on her professional journey as a Science Teacher at Fluorescent Public School in Ahmedabad, India. Here, she not only imparted knowledge but also inspired her students to think critically and explore the wonders of the scientific world.

Building upon her teaching experience, Jigna further enriched her professional repertoire by serving as a Physics Teacher at White House Public School in Kutch, India. During her tenure, she nurtured the intellectual growth of her students, fostering a stimulating learning environment conducive to academic excellence.

Contributions and Research Focus in Physics

As a Research Scholar at the Department of Physics, Gujarat University, she delved into the realms of dielectric and physicochemical properties of amine drug molecules. Her research endeavors encompassed a multidisciplinary approach, integrating experimental work, data analysis, and molecular dynamics simulation to elucidate the intricate behavior of molecular systems.

Her doctoral thesis titled "Amine Drug Broadband Dielectric Spectroscopy, Physicochemical Properties, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, and Thermal Properties" underscored her commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration. Through her innovative research, Jigna aimed to advance our understanding of molecular interactions and pave the way for groundbreaking discoveries in the field of pharmaceuticals.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her academic and professional journey, her exemplary contributions have been recognized and celebrated. She was honored with the "Best Student of the Year" award in 2008, acknowledging her outstanding academic achievements and leadership qualities. Additionally, her research prowess was acknowledged with the "Best Poster Paper Award" in 2015 and the "Best Award" in 2017, underscoring her significant contributions to the field of physics.

Impact and Influence

Her unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and her passion for physics have left an indelible mark on all those she has encountered. As a teacher, researcher, and mentor, she has inspired countless individuals to explore the wonders of science and embark on their own intellectual journeys. Her legacy extends far beyond the confines of the classroom or laboratory, shaping the future of scientific inquiry and innovation.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her academic and professional journey, her commitment to excellence and her passion for physics remain unwavering. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and experience, she is poised to make even greater contributions to the field, pushing the boundaries of scientific understanding and shaping the future of physics. With her insatiable curiosity and innovative spirit, she is destined to leave a lasting legacy in the annals of scientific discovery.

Citations

  • Citations              17
  • h-index                 2
  • i-10 index             1

Notable Publications

Bichitra Kumar Lenka | Stability theory | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Bichitra Kumar Lenka - Stability theory - Best Researcher Award🏆

Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

His journey in academia began with a strong foundation in mathematics. Graduating with honors in Mathematics from Ravenshaw University Cuttack, he exhibited exceptional performance with a remarkable 92.2% score. This laid the groundwork for his future academic endeavors. His pursuit of knowledge continued as he completed his Master of Science in Mathematics from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, delving deeper into the subject under the guidance of Dr. Vijayananda Kalyana Srinivas Kumar Vasana. These formative years equipped him with a robust understanding of mathematical principles, setting the stage for his doctoral studies.

Professional Endeavors

His professional journey saw him traversing through various esteemed institutions, each contributing to his growth as a researcher. His stint as a Project Assistant at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata provided him with invaluable research experience, laying the groundwork for his future pursuits. Subsequently, he served as an Assistant Professor at the National Institute of Technology Sikkim, gaining exposure to academic responsibilities and nurturing young minds.

His role as an Institute Post-Doctoral Fellow at both the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati and Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad, under the mentorship of Professors Swaroop Nandan Bora and Ranjit Kumar Upadhyay respectively, further honed his research acumen and expertise in Stability Theory, Fractional Calculus, and Control Theory.

Contributions and Research Focus in Stability theory

His research primarily focuses on Stability Theory, Fractional Calculus, and Control Theory. His doctoral thesis, titled "Dynamics and Stability of Some Classes of Fractional Order Systems," under the guidance of Professor Dr. Soumitro Banerjee at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, made significant contributions to the field. His work explores the dynamics and stability aspects of fractional-order systems, shedding light on novel techniques and methodologies to analyze and control complex dynamical systems. His current research endeavors delve deeper into Fractional Calculus, Comparison Stability Theory, Lyapunov Stability Theory, and Nonlinear Dynamics, aiming to address pressing challenges in system stability and control.

Accolades and Recognition

His scholarly contributions have garnered recognition and accolades within the academic community. His doctoral research, marked by its depth and innovation, earned him commendations from peers and mentors alike. Additionally, his tenure as an Institute Post-Doctoral Fellow at various premier institutes reflects his academic prowess and dedication to advancing the frontiers of knowledge in his field.

Impact and Influence

His research contributions have the potential to significantly impact various domains, including engineering, physics, and applied mathematics. By unraveling the complexities of fractional-order systems and stability theory, his work paves the way for the development of robust control strategies and the understanding of intricate dynamical phenomena. His insights into nonlinear dynamics and control theory hold promise for applications in diverse areas, ranging from aerospace engineering to biological systems.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As he continues his academic journey, his legacy is poised to endure through his groundbreaking research and mentorship endeavors. With a focus on fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and mentoring the next generation of researchers, he aims to leave a lasting impact on the field of stability theory and fractional calculus. His future contributions hold the potential to redefine our understanding of complex dynamical systems and inspire novel solutions to real-world problems.

Citations

  • Citations               192
  • h-index                   6
  • i10-index                5

Notable Publications