Prabhakar M.N. | Bio Composite | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Prabhakar M.N. | Bio Composite | Best Researcher Award

Changwon National University, South Korea

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. M.N. Prabhakar began his academic journey at Sri Krishnadevaraya University, India, where he earned both a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Physical Sciences and a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Polymer Science and Technology. He continued his academic excellence by completing his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Polymer Science and Technology at the same university. Additionally, he acquired a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Physical Sciences from Bangalore University, reflecting his passion for teaching alongside his research pursuits.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Prabhakar's professional career spans diverse research and academic roles in multiple countries: Research Associate at the Bristol Composite Institute, University of Bristol, UK (2024–Present), Research Professor and Co-Supervisor at Changwon National University, South Korea, Post-Doctoral Fellow at Changwon National University, Earlier, he held roles in esteemed organizations such as the National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), India, and Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), India as a Project Assistant. His industrial experience includes working as a Junior Chemist in E-Pack Polymers (P) Limited.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Prabhakar’s research centers on polymer composites, focusing on their mechanical performance, thermal properties, and flame-retardant capabilities. His groundbreaking work includes: Development of eco-starch plastic composites funded by a prestigious $122,861 grant from the National Research Foundation of South Korea, Advancements in flame-resistant vinyl ester composites that earned him the Outstanding Presentation Award at the International Symposium on Precision Engineering and Sustainable Manufacturing (PRESM) 2021, Expertise in state-of-the-art composite fabrication techniques, including injection molding, coaxial electrospinning, and various advanced microscopy methods.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Prabhakar has contributed significantly to academia and industry by mentoring 4 Ph.D. and 9 Master's students at Changwon National University. He has served as an evaluator for research competitions such as FONDECYT-Chile National Projects and collaborated internationally on several innovative projects. His efforts in organizing conferences, such as the 11th International Conference on Green Composites (ICGC-11), highlight his leadership in the global research community.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Prabhakar’s prolific academic output includes numerous publications in high-impact journals like Industrial Crops and Products, Cellulose, and Polymer Composites. His extensive reviewing experience for technical journals underscores his influence in the field of polymer science. He has been honored with prestigious fellowships, including Junior and Senior Research Fellowships from the University Grants Commission (UGC), India, during his doctoral studies.

⚙️ Technical Skills

Dr. Prabhakar’s expertise spans a wide range of analytical and processing techniques, such as:Injection molding and Vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), Rheometry, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), Advanced microscopy tools, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and 3D Microscopy, Fire testing techniques like Cone Calorimetry and Pyrolysis Combustion Flow Calorimetry.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As a lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Changwon National University, Dr. Prabhakar taught Polymer Processing Technology and Polymer Composites to Ph.D. and Master’s students. He also actively participated in graduate defense committees, further strengthening his commitment to education and mentorship.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Prabhakar’s work has left a lasting impact on the field of polymer science and green composites, fostering innovation in sustainable materials. Looking ahead, his role as a Research Associate at the Bristol Composite Institute positions him to drive cutting-edge advancements in composite engineering, bridging the gap between environmental sustainability and industrial applications.

🏆 Select Honors

Outstanding Presentation Award at PRESM 2021, Jeju, South Korea, Research Grant from the National Research Foundation of South Korea for eco-starch plastic composites, Junior and Senior Research Fellowships from UGC, India.

📖Notable Publications