Gautam Gaikwad | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gautam Gaikwad | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Shrimant Babasaheb Deshmukh Mahavidyalaya, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gautam Gaikwad began his academic journey in chemistry with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) from Shivaji Mahavidyalaya, Barshi (1990–1993). He pursued his Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree at the Department of Chemistry, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, between 1993 and 1995, where he laid the foundation for a future in chemical sciences. With a passion for advanced research, he completed his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Shivaji University, Kolhapur, during the period 2005–2011, with a focus on coordination and organometallic chemistry.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Gaikwad has been serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at AES’ Shrimant Babasaheb Deshmukh Mahavidyalaya, Atpadi, since 1995. Over nearly three decades, he has contributed extensively to teaching and mentoring, nurturing generations of undergraduate and postgraduate students. In 2013, he was officially recognized as a Ph.D. research guide by Shivaji University, Kolhapur, marking a significant milestone in his academic career.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Gaikwad’s research specialization lies in coordination chemistry, organometallic chemistry, and catalysis. His scholarly pursuits include exploring metal-ligand complexes, especially copper complexes with iminopyridine ligands, and their catalytic applications. He successfully completed a UGC-funded Minor Research Project titled “Synthesis, Characterization, and Catalytic Study of Copper Complexes with Iminopyridine Ligands” with a grant of ₹75,000. This project underlines his capability in bridging theoretical chemistry with real-world chemical applications.

🧠 Research Activities and Engagement

In addition to his research projects, Dr. Gaikwad has been an active participant in organizing scientific events that foster student engagement and skill development. He served on the organizing committee of workshops on Spectroscopic Techniques and Interpersonal Skill Development in 2018 at his institution, promoting holistic academic enrichment for students and fellow faculty.

🏛️ Administrative Contributions

Dr. Gaikwad holds a variety of administrative responsibilities within his institution. Notably, he is a Member of the College Development Committee at Shrimant Babasaheb Deshmukh Mahavidyalaya, Atpadi, a role he has held since 2018. His participation reflects his dedication to institutional growth and policy planning.

📚 Teaching Experience

Dr. Gaikwad brings with him 24 years of rich teaching experience at the undergraduate level and 6 years at the postgraduate level. His long-standing engagement with students across different academic stages showcases his pedagogical versatility and commitment to academic excellence.

🔬 Technical and Research Skills

He possesses strong technical acumen in the synthesis and characterization of coordination compounds, as well as practical knowledge in catalysis and spectroscopy. His work blends both experimental chemistry and theoretical understanding, essential for driving impactful research in chemical sciences.

🌟 Legacy and Future Vision

Through his enduring dedication to teaching, research, and academic leadership, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gautam Gaikwad has established himself as a pillar of the chemistry department at his institution. As a Ph.D. guide and experienced educator, he continues to shape the next generation of chemists. With ongoing interest in catalysis and organometallic frameworks, his future contributions are poised to address critical challenges in sustainable chemistry and industrial applications.

📖Notable Publications

  • Catalytic assay of Schiff base Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes for N-alkylation of heterocycles with 1,3-dibromopropane
    Journal: Journal of Chemical Sciences
    Year: 2020
    Author: Dr. Gautam Gaikwad

  • Study of Micronutrient Status in Soil of Solapur District
    Journal: International Journal of Agriculture Environment and Biotechnology
    Year: 2019
    Author: Dr. Gautam Gaikwad

  • Catalytic activities of mixed ligand transition metal complexes for N-arylation of heterocycles under mild conditions
    Journal: International Journal of Research and Analytical Review
    Year: 2018
    Author: Dr. Gautam Gaikwad

  • N-Arylation of heterocycles by mixed ligand transition metal complexes under mild conditions
    Journal: Indian Journal of Chemistry Section B
    Year: 2018
    Author: Dr. Gautam Gaikwad

  • N-Arylation of Heterocycles with Schiff Base Transition Metal Complexes Under Mild Conditions
    Journal: Advanced Organic Chemistry Letters
    Year: 2016
    Author: Dr. Gautam Gaikwad

  • Synthesis, characterization and luminescence properties of copper(I) complexes containing 2-phenyl-3-(benzylamino)-1,2-dihydroquinazolin-4(3H)-one and triphenylphosphine as ligands
    Journal: Polyhedron
    Year: 2011
    Author: Dr. Gautam Gaikwad

Alwyn Henriques | Reaction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Alwyn Henriques | Reaction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

University of the West Indies, Jamaica

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Alwyn Henriques began his academic journey at Wolmer’s Boys’ School (2009–2013), where he excelled in a broad range of CSEC subjects including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, Information Technology, and Caribbean History. He continued his studies with CAPE Unit 1 courses in Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. His academic path advanced further at the University of the West Indies (2014–2021), where he completed undergraduate studies in Chemistry, reaching Levels 2 and 3, which provided him with a solid foundation in analytical and applied chemistry.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Alwyn has engaged in diverse professional roles that reflect a combination of scientific, technical, and customer service expertise. At the National Health Fund (NHF), he served as a Pharmacy Assistant in June 2018 and 2019, where he introduced and advised on the use of digital solutions like a quick prescription mobile application and self-serve kiosk services. He also assisted in medication packing, gaining practical insight into pharmaceutical distribution. In September 2017, he worked as a Chemistry Lab Technician at the Convent of Mercy (Alpha), where he prepared laboratory apparatus and ensured safety protocols for chemical experiments. His earlier experience at RADA in August 2017 involved organizing agricultural seminar documents as a file clerk.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Alwyn’s most significant research contributions came during his internship at the Scientific Research Council (SRC) in July 2021. There, he explored the chemical transformation and pharmacological behavior of cannabis-derived compounds, focusing on the conversion of cannabidiol (CBD) to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), THC spoilage to cannabinol (CBN), and the redox-based metabolism of these compounds in the body. His research also delved into wastewater chemical analysis, pharmaceutical development processes, cacao bean applications in food and medicine, and cannabis-derived renewable materials—demonstrating a strong orientation toward sustainable and innovative chemistry.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Alwyn’s multidisciplinary career showcases a commitment to socially impactful science. His promotion of digital health services at NHF and exploration of plant-based compounds for pharmaceuticals mark him as a forward-thinking individual attuned to modern healthcare, sustainability, and biotechnology trends. He contributes to Jamaica’s evolving landscape of scientific development, especially in areas of public health innovation and natural product chemistry.

🧠 Technical Skills

Alwyn’s technical skill set includes laboratory preparation of chemicals and apparatus, cannabinoid conversion and pharmacokinetics, wastewater analysis, pharmaceutical formulation, data organization, and customer support systems. His adaptability in both scientific and service-oriented environments illustrates a strong balance of precision, communication, and innovation.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Although he has not held a formal teaching post, Alwyn’s role as a lab technician involved active support of educational activities by preparing experiments and maintaining a safe and functional learning environment. This experience has equipped him with the foundational skills for future roles in academic support or technical instruction.

📚 Academic Cites and References

While no formal publications have been cited, Alwyn’s research during his SRC internship likely contributed to internal reports or scientific reviews. His professional references include Norman Biggs, a Justice of the Peace, Adriel Albert-James, a Chemistry Lecturer and Researcher, and Nickeisha Stephenson, a customer service and loan advisor, all of whom can attest to his character and capability across various fields.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Alwyn Henriques is a promising scientific professional with a unique blend of academic, research, and service-oriented experience. His passion for natural product chemistry, commitment to sustainable innovation, and fluency in digital healthcare solutions set the stage for impactful contributions in the future. As he continues to grow, he is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in the advancement of biomedical science, renewable resources, and public health technologies.

📖Notable Publication

Cannabinoid spoilage, metabolism and cannabidiol (CBD) conversion to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) mechanisms with energetic parameters

Authors:
Alwyn Henriques

Journal:
Journal of Cannabis Research

Year:
2025