Makarand Ghangrekar | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Makarand Ghangrekar | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Technology Puducherry, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Makarand Ghangrekar’s academic foundation in civil and environmental engineering has been both distinguished and impactful. He earned his B.E. in Civil Engineering (with Distinction) from the Government College of Engineering, Karad, Maharashtra, in 1989. With a growing interest in environmental sustainability, he pursued a M.Tech. in Environmental Engineering from VNIT (then Visvesvaraya Regional College of Engineering), Nagpur, completing it in 1992. His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Bombay in January 1998, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to water and wastewater management research.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

With over 33 years of research experience, Prof. Ghangrekar has served in pivotal academic and research roles. He is currently affiliated with the National Institute of Technology Puducherry, where he continues to mentor students, guide doctoral research, and lead innovations in environmental engineering. Notably, he was the first Indian researcher to initiate studies in microbial fuel cells (MFCs)—a cutting-edge domain in bioelectrochemistry focusing on simultaneous wastewater treatment and bioelectricity generation.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Ghangrekar has made foundational contributions in environmental biotechnology and sustainable water treatment. His work on Up-flow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) Reactors includes advancements in their design, operation, and maintenance, as well as in granulation and startup techniques. He has also been instrumental in developing low-cost sewage treatment methods using high-rate anaerobic technologies, such as anaerobic filters and baffled reactors. His research portfolio extends to microbial fuel cells, bio-energy recovery, desalination, and reuse of treated wastewater, all contributing significantly to decentralized and sustainable sanitation systems.

🌏 Impact and Influence

Prof. Ghangrekar’s impact transcends academic boundaries. As a pioneer in bioelectrochemical systems in India, he has shaped national dialogue on wastewater reuse, energy recovery, and cost-effective water treatment. His expertise has influenced public policy, industrial practices, and academic curricula. By integrating engineering with ecological and socio-economic considerations, he has fostered interdisciplinary approaches to solving real-world environmental challenges.

📊 Academic Citations and Recognition

Though specific citation data is not included here, Prof. Ghangrekar’s pioneering status and three-decade-long contributions suggest a significant academic footprint. His early adoption and promotion of microbial fuel cell research in India, alongside publications and collaborations, have positioned him as a highly respected figure in environmental and civil engineering communities.

🛠️ Technical Skills and Research Expertise

Prof. Ghangrekar is equipped with an exceptional array of technical competencies:

  • Design and operation of UASB and anaerobic treatment systems

  • Microbial fuel cell technology for electricity generation from waste

  • Wastewater desalination techniques

  • Integration of anaerobic-aerobic package systems for decentralized sewage treatment

  • Systems for treated wastewater reuse and public water supply optimization

His practical research has resulted in real-world applications, especially in low-income or rural areas where resource-efficient treatment systems are essential.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

Throughout his academic tenure, Prof. Ghangrekar has been a guiding force for students, researchers, and young professionals. His mentorship has been critical in producing new leaders in environmental engineering. He is known for blending rigorous theoretical instruction with hands-on experimentation, especially in designing bio-treatment systems and evaluating their socio-technical impact.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

As an innovator, educator, and policy influencer, Prof. Makarand Ghangrekar leaves a lasting legacy in India’s environmental engineering landscape. His commitment to sustainable wastewater treatment, bioenergy recovery, and reuse technologies continues to inspire the next generation of scientists. Looking forward, his research is poised to contribute to smart city infrastructure, eco-sanitation models, and carbon-neutral wastewater systems, ensuring cleaner, energy-efficient, and resilient urban and rural water management for the future.

📖Notable Publications

Performance evaluation of hybrid electrochemical oxidation and ultraviolet light-based persulfate process for the abatement of sodium dodecyl sulfate from wastewater
Authors: A. Ahmad, M. Priyadarshini, M.M. Ghangrekar, R.Y. Surampalli
Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
Year: 2025

3D g‑C₃N₄/WS₂/Agarose Aerogel Photocatalyst for Near-Complete Degradation of Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics in Batch and Continuous Flow Modes
Authors: M.V.L. Gnanaguru, D. Dey, M.M. Ghangrekar, R.K. Sen, S. Chowdhury
Journal: ACS ES&T Engineering
Year: 2025

Catalysing holistic wastewater treatment, electricity generation, and emerging contaminant removal in a pre-pilot Fenton-microbial fuel cell
Authors: A. Dhanda, L.P. Thulluru, R. Raj, B.K. Dubey, M.M. Ghangrekar
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A
Year: 2025

Improving algae-assisted bioelectrochemical system with the integration of advanced cell disruption process for lipid recovery: A mini-review
Authors: A. Tripathi, S. Das, M.M. Ghangrekar, B.K. Dubey
Journal: [No source information available]
Year: 2025

Sulfonated titanium nanotubes-modified clayware membranes for enhanced performance and cost-effective microbial fuel cell applications
Authors: A. Dhanda, L.P. Thulluru, S. Chowdhury, B.K. Dubey, M.M. Ghangrekar
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
Year: 2025

Harish Kumar | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award -1959

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Mr. Harish Kumar | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Geological survey of India, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Harish Kumar’s academic journey laid a robust foundation for his career in geology. Earning his Master of Science in Geology from the University of Lucknow, he cultivated a deep understanding of earth sciences that has informed his professional expertise. This advanced training equipped him with the analytical and methodological skills essential for tackling complex geological challenges.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Over a distinguished 25-year tenure with the Geological Survey of India, Mr. Kumar has excelled in various capacities, ultimately ascending to the role of Director (Geology). His leadership in the Eastern Region office has driven impactful projects, particularly within the National Geochemical Mapping Program. His work has focused on engineering geology, environmental geology, natural hazards, and comprehensive geochemical mapping of sediments, surface water, and soils, thereby significantly influencing national geological policies and practices.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Kumar’s contributions center on advancing the understanding of geochemistry and geological mapping across India. He has spearheaded multiple geochemical mapping projects under the National Geochemical Mapping Program, covering diverse regions such as Uttarakhand, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and even expedition-based studies in Ladakh. His innovative approaches have enhanced analytical geochemistry methodologies, directly benefiting the exploration and management of natural resources while mitigating environmental risks.

📊 Impact and Influence

The work of Mr. Kumar has left a profound impact on the field of geology and environmental science in India. His leadership in geochemical mapping has provided critical data that informs regional development, resource management, and hazard assessment. By improving analytical techniques and expanding the scope of geochemical surveys, his contributions have influenced both policy-making and scientific research, positioning the Geological Survey of India as a leader in the domain of earth sciences.

🛠️ Technical Skills and Academic Citations

Mr. Kumar’s technical proficiency encompasses engineering geology, environmental assessments, and advanced geochemical mapping techniques. His ability to integrate geochemical data with spatial analysis has resulted in widely cited contributions within academic and government research circles. The robust methodologies he has developed have not only been applied in his projects but have also set benchmarks for future geochemical studies across India.

🎓 Teaching Experience & Mentorship

Although his primary role focuses on leadership and project execution, Mr. Kumar actively mentors emerging geologists and environmental scientists. His extensive field experience and strategic insights into geological mapping are frequently shared through workshops and seminars, where he emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and professional growth in the ever-evolving field of geoscience.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Mr. Harish Kumar remains committed to expanding the horizons of geochemical mapping and analytical geochemistry in India. His visionary work continues to inspire innovative approaches in geological research, with future projects poised to further enhance resource exploration, environmental management, and hazard mitigation. His enduring legacy is defined by a blend of practical expertise, academic rigor, and a relentless drive to advance the science of geology for national development and global environmental sustainability.

 

📖Notable Publications

  • Geoscientific studies of Bhimbetka Shelter Complex

    • Authors: D.V. Ganvir, H.Y. Bhai, Prem Babu, P.C.D. Mony, P.A. Gaffar, Harish Kumar, L.L. Vishvakarma, S.B. Telang

    • Journal: Abstract Volume of Workshop on Contribution of GSI towards Conservation of World/National Monuments

    • Year: 2010

  • Geotechnical assessment of landslide occurred in mid of September 2010 at different places of district Bageshwar, Uttarakhand

    • Authors: Harish Kumar, Anil Mehrotra

    • Journal: Applied Disaster Research: Proceedings of Disaster, Risk and Vulnerability Conference

    • Year: 2011

  • Geological assessment of slope instability of landslide-affected villages in Tehri and Uttarkashi Districts, Uttarakhand

    • Author: Harish Kumar

    • Journal: Abstract Volume of Seminar on 2nd India Disaster Management Congress

    • Year: 2009

  • Geological assessment of slope instability along the Atal-Tuini-Mori-Naitwar-Harkidun communication route in Tons Valley, Uttarakhand

    • Author: Harish Kumar

    • Journal: Abstract Volume of Seminar on 2nd India Disaster Management Congress

    • Year: 2009

Bassam Abboud | Chemical Safety | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Bassam Abboud | Chemical Safety | Best Researcher Award

Lebanese Hospital Geitaoui,

Lebanon

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Bassam Abboud, Lebanon, began his educational journey at Collège Saint-Abda Deir El Kamar where he completed his secondary studies in the Sciences Experimentales series in 1982. After completing his secondary studies, he pursued his medical degree at the prestigious Université Saint-Joseph in Beirut, Lebanon, where he spent seven years in medical studies, graduating with a Doctor of Medicine degree. His academic journey reflects a solid foundation in science and medicine, setting the stage for his subsequent professional contributions.

Professional Endeavors and Clinical Training 🏥

Abboud’s clinical training further honed his skills in medicine through extensive internships and externships at top-tier medical institutions in Beirut, he worked as an extern at Hôtel Dieu de France and Hôpital Saint-Georges, both renowned hospitals in Lebanon. Following his externship, Abboud progressed through his internship at Hôpital Saint-Joseph and later continued at Hôtel Dieu de France, where he completed his final year of clinical training.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Abboud’s career has been marked by significant contributions to the field of medical research and clinical practice, particularly in the areas of thyroid diseases, gastrointestinal surgery, and cancer management. His publications and clinical reports, including his research on papillary thyroid carcinoma, showcase his expertise in cervical lymph node pathology and his application of advanced diagnostic tools in the treatment of thyroid malignancies. His research extends to a broader interest in endoscopic procedures, gastroesophageal reflux, and polyposis syndromes, reflecting his diverse professional background.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Abboud has made a profound impact on the Lebanese medical community, contributing to the clinical management of complex conditions and the advancement of medical research. His work has influenced medical practices in Lebanon and beyond, establishing him as a respected figure in his field. He has collaborated with many renowned medical professionals, contributing to a global discourse on surgical practices and cancer treatments. His leadership has also helped in the education of future doctors, ensuring that his impact continues for years to come.

Academic Cites 📚

Abboud’s research has been widely cited across various medical journals, and his publications have earned him recognition in the fields of surgery and oncology. His most notable research includes his work on thyroid carcinomas and gastrointestinal diseases, which have been referenced numerous times by both local and international experts. This citation history reflects the academic and clinical value of his work.

Technical Skills 🛠️

Abboud possesses a diverse set of technical skills that have significantly contributed to his medical career. These include advanced diagnostic techniques in ultrasonography and pathological analysis, as well as proficiency in surgical procedures related to thyroid cancer, gastrointestinal surgeries, and laparoscopic techniques. His ability to blend clinical knowledge with cutting-edge medical technologies has set him apart as a leader in the medical field.

Teaching Experience 🧑‍🏫

As a dedicated educator, Abboud has shared his vast knowledge with countless medical students and residents throughout his career. His teaching role in various medical institutions has shaped the next generation of medical professionals in Lebanon, particularly in the fields of surgery and oncology. His ability to translate complex medical concepts into clear, understandable lessons has made him an invaluable mentor to his students.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Bassam Abboud’s legacy is one of dedication to the advancement of medicine in Lebanon and the broader Middle Eastern region. As a pioneer in cancer surgery, his research contributions will continue to influence clinical practices and medical education for years to come. Looking to the future, Abboud remains committed to innovating medical care, particularly in the areas of thyroid malignancies and gastrointestinal health, ensuring his continued relevance in the ever-evolving field of medical science.

📖Notable Publications