Vikramsingh Thakur | Experimental Methods | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Vikramsingh Thakur | Experimental Methods | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Vikramsingh Thakur | Indian Institute of Technology Delhi | India

Vikramsingh Thakur is a highly accomplished materials scientist and polymer engineer with expertise in sustainable packaging and nanocomposites. Currently working at ITC Life Science & Technology Centre, Bangalore, he is engaged in developing biodegradable, high-barrier packaging solutions. With a robust academic foundation, including a Ph.D. from IIT Delhi and M.Tech from the same institute, Vikramsingh has also contributed to R&D at Saint-Gobain, Resile Chemicals, and DRDO. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications, co-authored a patent, and represented India at international conferences. His research integrates functionality, sustainability, and real-world impact. Passionate about bridging the gap between innovation and application, he has received notable awards including the Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship and multiple institutional recognitions, making him a standout young scholar in materials science.

Author Profile

Scopus | ORCID

Education

Vikramsingh Thakur completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from IIT Delhi, where his thesis focused on developing multifunctional nanocomposite films with barrier, mechanical, and sensing properties for smart packaging. He also holds an M.Tech in Polymer Science and Technology from IIT Delhi, graduating with distinction. Prior to this, he earned a B.Tech in Plastic and Polymer Engineering from Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Aurangabad and a Diploma in the same field from Government Polytechnic, Amravati. His academic journey has been marked by consistent excellence and a deep engagement with advanced materials, polymer composites, and sustainable engineering, laying a strong foundation for impactful interdisciplinary research.

Professional Experience

Vikramsingh currently serves as a Fellow Trainee Consultant at ITC Life Science & Technology Centre, where he works on biodegradable, high-barrier packaging materials across food, tobacco, and personal care industries. Previously, he worked at Saint-Gobain Abrasives R&D, Bangalore, as a PGET, developing nonwoven abrasive products and winning a “Business Impact Award.” He has also completed research internships at Resile Chemicals, developing silicone-modified resins, and at DRDO Pune, where he worked on electrospun nanofiber-reinforced laminates. His experience spans academia and industry, blending material innovation with product development. With expertise in compounding, extrusion, testing, and sustainability compliance, Vikramsingh brings a versatile skill set to materials research, consistently aligning scientific advancements with industrial applications.

Awards and Honors

Vikramsingh Thakur has received multiple prestigious awards throughout his academic and research career. He is a recipient of the Prime Minister Research Fellowship (PMRF), India’s highest fellowship for doctoral scholars. At IIT Delhi, he was awarded the Research Excellence Travel Award and Best Teaching Assistant Award by the Materials Science Society. Earlier, during his tenure at Saint-Gobain, he won the Business Impact Award for project excellence. He was also honored with the Devidasrao Ashtaputre Memorial Award for academic performance during his B.Tech. Additionally, his early work earned him the Best Poster Award at a national symposium in 2014. These accolades reflect his consistent academic brilliance, research innovation, and impactful contributions to both scientific and industrial domains.

Research Focus

Vikramsingh’s research focuses on the development of multifunctional polymer nanocomposite films for intelligent and sustainable packaging applications. His doctoral work explored barrier (OTR & WVTR), mechanical, antioxidant, and pH-responsive properties in biodegradable packaging. He specializes in processing-structure-property correlations using nanoclays, electrospun fibers, and smart additives such as anthocyanins and ethylene scavengers. His patent on bilayered halochromic freshness markers and his publications in ACS and Wiley journals highlight innovations in food packaging. He also works on thermally conductive and electrically insulating polymer composites for electronics. Vikramsingh integrates principles of materials design, sustainability, and functionality, aiming to bridge academia with industry through real-world solutions in advanced polymers and environmental protection.

Notable Publications

Synergistic Effect of Halloysite and Montmorillonite for Barrier-Resistant and Smart Films as Active Food Packaging for Improved Shelf Life

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani Kumar Satapathy
    Journal: Integrated Ferroelectrics
    Year: 2025

Integration of benzoic acid-loaded nanocellulose fibers on biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) matrix and its application into food preservation

  • Authors: Aiswarya Thattaru Thodikayil, Ashutosh Kumar, Vikramsingh Thakur, Gangalakshmi V, Shaifali Dhingra, Sampa Saha
    Journal: Polymer Engineering & Science
    Year: 2024

Robust Tear-Resistant Blown Nanocomposite Films for Barrier Packaging: Role of Clay Platelet Thickness in Tear Mechanics and Barrier Performances

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy
    Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials
    Year: 2023

Electrospun Nanofibrous Mat-on-Film Bilayered Halochromic Freshness Marker-Enabled Intelligent Food Packaging Film Based on Red Cabbage Anthocyanins

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy
    Journal: ACS Food Science & Technology
    Year: 2023

Biodegradable Polymers for Food Packaging Applications

  • Authors: Vikramsingh Thakur, Bhabani K. Satapathy, Chandrani Sarkar, Sampa Saha
    Journal: Materials Horizons: From Nature to Nanomaterials (Springer, Singapore)
    Year: 2023

Conclusion

Vikramsingh Thakur is an exceptional young researcher who blends scientific rigor with industrial relevance. His work in sustainable packaging and multifunctional nanocomposites demonstrates innovation, technical depth, and societal impact. With a strong academic background, hands-on R&D experience, and a growing international footprint, he stands out as a future leader in materials science and engineering. His passion for research, commitment to sustainability, and problem-solving approach make him a deserving candidate for prestigious recognitions and continued contributions to science and technology.

Brajadulal Chattopadhyay | Experimental Methods | Innovative Research Award

Prof. Dr. Brajadulal Chattopadhyay | Experimental Methods | Innovative Research Award

Prof. Dr. Brajadulal Chattopadhyay | Jadavpur University | India

Professor Brajadulal Chattopadhyay is a distinguished academic in the Department of Physics, Jadavpur University, with over two decades of experience in interdisciplinary scientific research. His work spans biophysics, nanotechnology, microbial applications in concrete, and environmental sustainability. An alumnus of the University of Calcutta, he earned his Ph.D. in Biophysics and Molecular Biology in 1994. His innovative research has resulted in several patents and impactful publications, and his projects often integrate molecular biology with applied physics. He has supervised over 28 Ph.D. students and leads several national and international research projects. His pioneering work on microbial bio-concrete has earned recognition for its potential in green construction technology. A recipient of multiple prestigious fellowships and awards, Professor Chattopadhyay is a committed educator, a prolific researcher, and a regular reviewer for high-impact international journals.

Author Profile

Scopus

Education

Professor Chattopadhyay completed his B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics in 1985 from Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira, affiliated with the University of Calcutta. He pursued M.Sc. in Physics with a specialization in Biophysics from the University of Calcutta, graduating in 1987. He qualified the CSIR-UGC NET in Physics in 1989. He earned his Ph.D. in 1994 from the University of Calcutta under the supervision of Professor Ashoke Ranjan Thakur, with a thesis titled “Biophysical Studies of Methane Emission by Methanogenic Bacteria.” His educational trajectory reveals a strong foundation in interdisciplinary sciences, combining core physics with life sciences and biotechnology, setting the stage for his later work in bioconcrete and nanobiotechnology.

Professional Experience

Professor Chattopadhyay has been serving in the Physics Department of Jadavpur University since 1998. Beginning his academic journey as a Lecturer, he steadily progressed to Senior Lecturer, Reader, and Associate Professor, and has held the position of Professor since July 2013. His cumulative academic experience spans over 25 years. He has undertaken significant leadership in research and teaching, having guided 28 Ph.D. students (with 8 currently enrolled), reviewed numerous international journal articles, and managed over 9 government-funded research projects. His expertise lies in merging biophysics, material science, and molecular biology to develop innovative technologies such as microbial self-healing concrete and nanostructured materials for biomedical and environmental use. His work has received both national and international recognition and involves collaborations with reputed institutions and funding bodies like DBT, DRDO, and AICTE. His commitment to applied research is evidenced by patents, publications, and a strong mentorship legacy.

Awards and Honors

Professor Chattopadhyay’s research excellence has earned him numerous accolades. He received the National Scholarship (1979–85) and UGC Research Fellowship (1990–94) early in his academic career. His postdoctoral contributions were supported by a DBT Fellowship (1994–96) and a DAE Research Associateship (1996–98). In recognition of his pioneering work, he was awarded an Overseas Associateship by DBT (2007–08). Notably, he received the Best Patentable Research Award from Intellectual Ventures, Asia Chapter, in 2010–11. These awards underline his sustained contribution to applied and innovative science, particularly in microbial bioconcrete, bio-remediation, and nanobiotechnology. In addition, he is a recognized reviewer for several high-impact SCI/SCIE-indexed international journals, further cementing his role in shaping global scientific discourse.

Research Focus

Professor Chattopadhyay’s research seamlessly bridges physics, molecular biology, nanotechnology, and environmental science. His primary research interest lies in bio-concrete technology, where he explores microbial solutions for developing self-healing, eco-friendly concrete materials. He has patented bioconcrete processes and discovered hot spring bacterial strains contributing to crack remediation in construction. His other major area includes nanobiotechnology, particularly the use of black phosphorus, doped nanoparticles, and nano-curcumin in therapeutic, antibacterial, and photocatalytic applications. His studies also address environmental sustainability, such as water purification using nanoparticles and microbial synthesis of sophorolipids from industrial waste. Notably, he investigates the role of dietary agents and nanoparticles in mitigating nicotine-induced damage and diabetes-related complications. His work is highly interdisciplinary, involving collaborative research in microbiology, civil engineering, and biomedical sciences, backed by substantial government funding. Professor Chattopadhyay’s vision is to innovate at the interface of fundamental science and practical technology for societal benefit.

Notable Publications

Wealth from waste: Multifaceted yeast bio-synthesised sophorolipids using industrial waste by-products as substrate

  • Authors: Srija Pal, Niloy Chatterjee, Brajadulal Chattopadhyay, Sriparna Datta, Pubali Dhar
    Journal: Indian Journal of Chemical Technology
    Year: 2025

Valorization of oil refinery by-products: production of sophorolipids utilizing fatty acid distillates and their potential antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and antifungal activities

  • Authors: Srija Pal, Niloy Chatterjee, Sagnik Sinha Roy, Brajadulal Chattopadhyay, Krishnendu Acharya, Sriparna Datta, Pubali Dhar
    Journal: World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
    Year: 2024

Sonochemically synthesized black phosphorus nanoparticles: a promising candidate for piezocatalytic antibacterial activity with enhanced dielectric properties

  • Authors: Piyali Halder, Indrajit Mondal, Neelanjana Bag, Alapan Pal, Somen Biswas, Souvik Sau, Biplab Kumar Paul, Dheeraj Mondal, Brajadulal Chattopadhyay, Sukhen Das
    Journal: Dalton Transactions
    Year: 2024

Te4+ and Er3+ doped ZrO₂ Nanoparticles with Enhanced Photocatalytic, Antibacterial Activity and Dielectric Properties: A Next Generation of Multifunctional Material

  • Authors: Piyali Halder, Indrajit Mondal, Anwesha Mukherjee, Somen Biswas, Souvik Sau, Sucheta Mitra, Biplab Kumar Paul, Dheeraj Mondal, Brajadulal Chattopadhyay, Sukhen Das
    Journal: Journal of Environmental Management (Accepted)
    Year: 2024

Efficacy of nano-curcumin on nicotine-induced genotoxicity and immunomodulatory disruption in protein-malnourished female rats

  • Authors: Somashree Biswas, Krishna Chattopadhyay, Brajadulal Chattopadhyay
    Journal: Indian Journal of Physiology and Allied Sciences
    Year: 2024

Modified Bacteria Incorporated Geopolymer – A Qualitative Approach for an Eco-friendly, Energy-efficient and Self-healing Construction Material

  • Authors: Avishek Chatterjee, Nurul Alam, Trinath Chowdhury, Brajadulal Chattopadhyay
    Journal: Journal of Civil Engineering and Construction
    Year: 2024

Codon usage pattern of a novel Satyabrata bacterial strain BKH4 isolated from hot spring

  • Authors: Satyabrata Sahoo, Brajadulal Chattopadhyay, Ria Rakshit
    Journal: Industrial Biotechnology
    Year: 2023

Conclusion

Professor Brajadulal Chattopadhyay exemplifies impactful interdisciplinary research, integrating physics, microbiology, and materials science to address global challenges. His pioneering work in bioconcrete and environmental nanotechnology has resulted in patented innovations, impactful publications, and strong mentorship. His career reflects academic excellence, practical relevance, and a commitment to sustainability.

 

Anji Reddy Polu | Experimental Methods | Editorial Board Member

Assist . Prof . Dr . Anji Reddy Polu | Experimental Methods | Editorial Board Member

Assistant Professor, BVRIT HYDERABAD College of Engineering for Women , India

Profile 

Scopus

Orcid

🧑‍🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Anji Reddy Polu embarked on his academic journey with outstanding performance in the sciences. e earned his B.Sc. with a remarkable 87.7%, securing 1st rank at Hindu College, under Acharya Nagarjuna University. Continuing his excellence, he pursued M.Sc. in Physics from Dr. H S Gour Central University, where he stood 3rd in the university, securing 75.3%. His passion for materials science led him to complete his Ph.D. in Physics (2008–2013) from the same university, under the guidance of Prof. Ranveer Kumar, with a dissertation on “Synthesis and Characterization of Some Polymer Electrolytes for Electrochemical Device Applications”.

🧪 Research Experience and Expertise

Dr. Reddy’s research journey took a significant leap with his Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Sogang University, South Korea (2014–2016), focusing on polymer electrolytes for Li-ion batteries under Prof. Hee-Woo Rhee. Prior to this, he served as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at VIT University, India, working on solid polymer electrolytes for Mg-ion and Zn-ion batteries. His expertise spans organic-inorganic hybrid (POSS) nanocomposites, metal-ion batteries (Li, Na, Mg, Zn, K), and nanoionic liquids, emphasizing energy storage and conversion devices.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

With a rich teaching background, Dr. Reddy has served in various esteemed institutions:

  • BVRIT Hyderabad (2021–Present)Associate Professor

  • Malla Reddy Engineering College (2019–2021)Assistant Professor

  • Vardhaman College of Engineering (2016–2018)Assistant Professor

  • K L University (2012–2013)Assistant Professor

  • St. Ignatius Degree & PG College (2006–2008)Lecturer

He is deeply committed to student development and has been a key contributor to curriculum enrichment and academic mentoring.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Reddy’s research focus centers around solid-state battery technologies, especially:

  • Solid Polymer Electrolytes (SPEs)

  • Hybrid Nanocomposites

  • Electrochemical device applications

He has been instrumental in developing novel materials for Li-ion, Na-ion, Zn-ion, and Mg-ion batteries, with a keen interest in green energy solutions and nanotechnology applications. His work is known for its practical applications and industrial relevance.

🧠 Technical & Research Skills

He possesses advanced skills in:

  • Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS)

  • Cyclic Voltammetry (CV)

  • XRD, DSC, TGA, FTIR, SEM, TEM, AFM, POM

  • Battery analysis using WBCS3000 series

  • Glove box handling, planetary ball milling, and spin coating

These competencies enable him to perform cutting-edge experimental research in material science and battery technology.

📊 Patents and Innovations

Dr. Reddy is a prolific inventor with 9 patents to his name, filed in India and South Korea, covering solid-state electrolytes, nanocomposites, and energy storage innovations, such as:

  • Solid Polymer Electrolyte for Solid-State Zinc-ion Battery

  • Robotic Trash Disposal System

  • Hybrid Nanocomposite Solid Polymer Electrolyte

His patents are a testament to his innovative approach and practical impact in clean energy technologies.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Reddy has received numerous accolades, including:

  • Featured in Stanford University’s World’s Top 2% Scientists List (2022–2024)

  • Best Researcher Award – 2021

  • Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award (2017–2019)

  • Best Speaker and Best Poster Awards

  • Outstanding Reviewer (Elsevier, 2015)

  • DAAD, CSIR, INSA travel grants

  • UGC-RFSMS Fellow, D.S. Kothari Fellowship awardee
    These honors reflect his international reputation and dedication to research excellence.

📈 Academic Citations and Influence

With high-impact publications and a steady stream of citations, Dr. Reddy is recognized globally in the field of solid polymer electrolytes and battery technology. His interdisciplinary research has contributed to advancements in energy storage systems that are vital for sustainable technologies.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a scholar, teacher, and innovator, Dr. Anji Reddy Polu continues to shape the future of energy storage research. His commitment to academic excellence, mentorship, and technological innovation promises a lasting legacy in the materials science and electrochemical energy domains. Moving forward, he aims to expand his research into next-generation batteries, explore biopolymer-based systems, and foster global collaborations to tackle energy challenges.

Top Noted Publications

Enhancing ionic conductivity, mechanical stability and electrochemical properties simultaneously by integrating POSS-PEG13.3 hybrid nanoparticles into PEO-NaClO4 solid polymer electrolytes

  • Authors: Anji Reddy Polu, Pramod K. Singh, Aseel A. Kareem, Shufeng Song, Serguei V. Savilov, M.Z.A. Yahya, Markus Diantoro, Firdaus Mohamad Hamzah, S.N.F. Yusuf, Faisal Islam Chowdhury
    Journal: Chemical Physics Impact
    Year: 2025

Impact of tetracyanoethylene plasticizer on PEO based solid polymer electrolytes for improved ionic conductivity and solid-state lithium-ion battery performance

  • Authors: Anji Reddy Polu, Kwangmin Kim, Aseel A. Kareem, Dongkyu Kim, Shufeng Song, Serguei V. Savilov, Pramod K. Singh
    Journal: Journal of Power Sources
    Year: 2025

Performance enhancement of PEO: LiDFOB based nanocomposite solid polymer electrolytes via incorporation of POSS-PEG13.3 hybrid nanoparticles for solid-state Li-ion batteries

  • Authors: Anji Reddy Polu, Shufeng Song, Aseel A. Kareem, Serguei V. Savilov, Pramod K. Singh, Mekala Venkanna, Chava Sunil Kumar
    Journal: Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids
    Year: 2025

Enhancing the Properties of PEG-Based Solid Polymer Electrolytes with TiO2 Nanoparticles for Potassium Ion Batteries

  • Authors: Anji Reddy Polu, Faisal Islam Chowdhury, Pramod K. Singh, Markus Diantoro, Firdaus Mohamad Hamzah
    Journal: Chemical Physics Impact
    Year: 2025

Fast-charging heterogeneous ether-ester lithium metal batteries enabled by 12 μm-thick trilayer separator

  • Authors: Fengkun Wei, Shengxian Wang, Serguei V. Savilov, Anji Reddy Polu, Pramod K. Singh, Ning Hu, Shufeng Song
    Journal: Journal of Membrane Science
    Year: 2025