Dr. PRANABA Nayak | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. PRANABA Nayak | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. PRANABA Nayak , Analytical Chemistry ,  Scientific Officer at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, India

Dr. Pranaba K. Nayak is a Scientific Officer at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai, with over two decades of experience in nuclear and analytical chemistry, and astroparticle physics. He earned his Ph.D. from Utkal University in 2003, later serving at Kalasalingam University before joining TIFR in 2005 as a Senior Postdoctoral Fellow in the GRAPES-3 cosmic-ray experiment. His interdisciplinary research has led to over 75 peer-reviewed publications and significant discoveries, including gamma-ray flux shifts during solar eclipses and thunderstorm-related phenomena. He collaborates with 30+ national and international institutes and serves on editorial and scientific committees globally. An active mentor and scholar, Dr. Nayak has contributed to more than 50 book chapters and reviewed over 75 manuscripts. His work has been recognized for its impact on solar physics, atmospheric science, and nuclear astrophysics.

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Dr. Pranaba K. Nayak is a highly accomplished researcher whose career spans over two decades of impactful work in astro particle physics, nuclear chemistry, and analytical techniques. His contributions to the internationally recognized GRAPES-3 cosmic-ray experiment at TIFR have led to several groundbreaking discoveries, such as the variation in cosmic gamma-ray flux during solar eclipses and record-setting atmospheric potential measurements. With 75+ peer-reviewed publications, 50+ book chapters, and extensive international collaborations with over 30 institutes worldwide, he has consistently demonstrated research excellence, innovation, and leadership. His h-index of 20 and i10-index of 28 reflect the scientific community’s recognition of his work. In addition, Dr. Nayak has actively mentored young scientists and contributed as a reviewer and editorial board member, strengthening scientific discourse in his field. Dr. Pranaba K. Nayak is eminently suitable for the “Best Researcher Award”. His sustained research output, pioneering discoveries, interdisciplinary reach, and international collaborations make him a deserving candidate whose contributions have significantly advanced both theoretical and applied aspects of high-energy physics and analytical sciences.

🎓Education:

Dr. Nayak holds a Ph.D. in Experimental Nuclear and Analytical Chemistry from Utkal University (2003). His doctoral research, guided by mentors from Anna University, Chennai, spanned nuclear, analytical, and solid-state chemistry. This strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his transition into astroparticle physics and cosmic-ray studies. Prior to his Ph.D., he pursued postgraduate and undergraduate studies in chemistry, with a focus on nuclear instrumentation and environmental radiochemistry. His educational path blended theoretical insight with hands-on experimentation, equipping him with the tools necessary for high-impact interdisciplinary research. His continuing engagement with educational institutions, including mentoring young researchers and Ph.D. scholars, exemplifies his commitment to fostering scientific excellence. He frequently delivers lectures and training modules in cosmic ray physics and analytical techniques, contributing to capacity-building in India and abroad.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Pranaba K. Nayak began his professional journey as a faculty member at Kalasalingam University, focusing on nuclear and analytical chemistry. In 2005, he joined TIFR’s High Energy Physics Department as a Senior Postdoctoral Fellow and has since become a Scientific Officer, contributing extensively to the GRAPES-3 cosmic-ray experiment at Ooty. His work spans gamma-ray burst detection, cosmic-ray modulation, environmental radioactivity, and atmospheric physics. He has developed novel spectral analysis techniques and coordinated large-scale collaborations with over 30 institutions globally, including IITs, SINP, and partners in Japan, Europe, and Saudi Arabia. His interdisciplinary projects have addressed thunderstorm-related high-energy events and geomagnetic field studies. He also mentors students, reviews scientific manuscripts, and contributes to international committees. His role in advancing experimental techniques and fostering global scientific partnerships has made him a respected figure in high-energy astrophysics and nuclear research communities.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Nayak has received widespread recognition for his pioneering work in cosmic-ray physics and analytical chemistry. His discovery of gamma-ray flux shifts during the 2009 total solar eclipse gained international acclaim and highlighted his ability to integrate astrophysics with atmospheric science. He has been an invited reviewer for over 75 manuscripts, primarily for the journal Talanta, showcasing his expertise in analytical chemistry. His scientific excellence earned him a position on the Scientific Committee of the Annual International Congress on Nanoscience & Nanotechnology (2025, Oxford, UK). He is also a life member of prestigious scientific organizations, including the Indian Society for Atomic & Molecular Physics, Indian Physics Association, Indian Association for Nuclear Chemist & Allied Sciences, and Indian Society for Technical Education. These accolades affirm his leadership and innovation in research, education, and scientific outreach.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Pranaba K. Nayak’s research centers on the intersection of experimental nuclear chemistry, analytical techniques, and astroparticle physics. At the heart of his work lies the GRAPES-3 cosmic-ray experiment, where he investigates high-energy phenomena such as cosmic-ray modulation, gamma-ray flux variations, and muon bursts during thunderstorms and solar eclipses. His contributions have led to significant insights into solar-terrestrial interactions, atmospheric electricity, and transient geomagnetic events. He has also developed novel analytical methods for monitoring environmental radioactivity, integrating advanced spectrometry with field-based cosmic-ray detection systems. His research uniquely bridges space physics with earth-based observations, advancing our understanding of cosmic particle behavior under extreme atmospheric conditions. Through collaborations with over 30 national and international institutions, Dr. Nayak continues to lead interdisciplinary studies that link nuclear processes with astrophysical and atmospheric phenomena, thereby contributing to global efforts in understanding high-energy cosmic environments and their terrestrial effects.

Publication Top Notes:

Title: Synthesis and characterization of cadmium ferrite
Citations: 76

Title: Forbush decreases and turbulence levels at coronal mass ejection fronts
Citations: 65

Title: Measurement of the Electrical Properties of a Thundercloud Through Muon Imaging by the GRAPES-3 Experiment
Citations: 51

Title: Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis of gallstones
Citations: 46

Title: Measurement of some EAS properties using new scintillator detectors developed for the GRAPES-3 experiment
Citations: 42

Title: PIXE & XRD analysis of nanocrystals of Fe, Ni and Fe₂O₃
Citations: 35

Title: External particle-induced X-ray emission
Citations: 35

Title: Elemental analysis of anti-diabetic medicinal plants using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence technique
Citations: 34

Title: 57Fe Mössbauer and EDXRF studies on three representative banded iron formations (BIFs) of Orissa, India
Citations: 32

Title: A study of the γ-ray flux during the total solar eclipse of 1 August 2008 at Novosibirsk, Russia
Citations: 28

Title: Fast Fourier transform to measure pressure coefficient of muons in the GRAPES-3 experiment
Citations: 27

Dr. Yuntian Xiao | Coordination Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yuntian Xiao | Coordination Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yuntian Xiao , Tianjin University , China

Yuntian Xiao is a Ph.D. candidate at Tianjin University’s School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, specializing in chemical engineering with a focus on crystallization technology. Guided by Professor Qiuxiang Yin, Xiao’s research emphasizes sustainable pesticide delivery, environmental chemistry, and molecular simulation. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University of Science and Technology, followed by a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering at Tianjin University. He has contributed significantly to the fields of cocrystal engineering and agrochemical sustainability, earning numerous accolades such as the National Scholarship and the Tianjin University Major Awards. Xiao has published extensively in top journals like Chem. Eng. J. and Green Chem., showcasing innovations in crystallization and molecular assembly. Proficient in advanced lab techniques and computational tools, Xiao actively engages in research that bridges science and industry, aiming to develop eco-friendly solutions in agriculture and beyond.

Professional Profile

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Summary of Suitability for Award:

Yuntian Xiao demonstrates exceptional qualifications that align with the criteria for the “Best Researcher Awards.” As a Ph.D. candidate specializing in chemical engineering at Tianjin University, Xiao has made significant contributions to sustainable agriculture and environmental chemistry through cocrystal engineering and molecular simulation. With 15 high-impact publications in prestigious journals such as Chem. Eng. J. and ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces, Xiao has advanced innovations in agrochemical delivery systems and crystallization processes. His interdisciplinary research addresses global challenges like environmental sustainability and efficient pesticide usage. Based on his impactful research contributions, proven academic excellence, and innovative approaches to addressing critical environmental issues, Yuntian Xiao is a highly suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Awards.” His dedication to sustainability and interdisciplinary problem-solving exemplifies the qualities expected of a leading researcher, making him a deserving nominee.

🎓Education:

Yuntian Xiao is pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at Tianjin University’s School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, where he specializes in crystallization technology under the guidance of Professor Qiuxiang Yin. His doctoral research focuses on sustainable agrochemical solutions through cocrystal engineering. Xiao earned his Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University, working at the National Engineering Research Center of Industry Crystallization Technology under Professor Chuang Xie . During his Master’s program, he deepened his understanding of crystallization processes and molecular simulations. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Tianjin University of Science and Technology, where he excelled academically, achieving a GPA of 3.92. His comprehensive curriculum covered subjects like Chemical Thermodynamics, Reaction Engineering, and Phase Diagrams, building a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles. Xiao’s academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a passion for advancing sustainable chemical engineering solutions.

🏢Work Experience:

Yuntian Xiao has diverse research experience in crystallization technology and sustainable chemical engineering solutions. His doctoral research includes developing cocrystal engineering strategies for agrochemical delivery, focusing on herbicides with sustained release, reduced leaching, and enhanced efficiency. He has employed molecular simulations to understand these processes at a mechanistic level. Xiao has also contributed to interdisciplinary projects, including the melt crystallization of buty nediol, reactive crystallization of sodium bicarbonate, and cooling crystallization of creatine phosphate sodium. His main responsibilities involved optimizing experimental methods, modeling processes, and analyzing factors influencing industrial crystallization outcomes. Proficient in techniques like PXRD, TGA/DSC, SEM, Raman, and HPLC, Xiao also has advanced computational skills, including MATLAB and Materials Studio. His expertise combines experimental techniques with computational modeling, allowing him to bridge fundamental research with industrial applications. Xiao’s contributions highlight his ability to address real-world challenges in chemical engineering effectively.

🏅Awards: 

Yuntian Xiao has received numerous awards recognizing his academic excellence and research achievements. As a Ph.D. student, he earned the Ph.D. Student Major Award (2021–2022) from Tianjin University for his innovative research in chemical engineering. During his Master’s program, he consistently achieved the Master Student Major Awards (2018–2021) and a Minor Award (2019–2020) for exceptional academic performance and contributions to crystallization research. His undergraduate achievements include the National Scholarship (2017–2018), a prestigious honor awarded for outstanding academic performance and extracurricular involvement. Additionally, Xiao received the Student Major Awards (2015–2018) from Tianjin University of Science and Technology and the Merit Student Award (2015–2016) from Hebei University of Technology. These accolades reflect Xiao’s dedication to excellence and his impactful contributions to chemical engineering research, solidifying his reputation as a top-performing researcher and scholar.

🔬Research Focus:

Yuntian Xiao’s research focuses on sustainable chemical engineering solutions, particularly through cocrystal engineering. His work addresses global challenges in agriculture and environmental chemistry by designing eco-friendly agrochemical delivery systems. By developing novel cocrystals, Xiao aims to achieve sustained-release pesticides and herbicides with reduced environmental leaching and enhanced efficacy. His expertise extends to mechanochemistry and molecular simulations, employing advanced computational tools to predict and optimize crystallization mechanisms. Xiao has also explored solid-state chemistry to enhance the lifecycle efficiency of agrochemicals. His interdisciplinary projects include studies on the crystallization of buty nediol, sodium bicarbonate, and creatine phosphate sodium, demonstrating his ability to translate research into industrial applications. Xiao’s research integrates experimental techniques like PXRD, Raman spectroscopy, and HPLC with computational modeling, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of crystallization processes. His innovative work in sustainable chemical engineering highlights his commitment to addressing pressing environmental and agricultural challenges.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Title: Cocrystals of propylthiouracil and nutraceuticals toward sustained-release: Design, structure analysis, and solid-state characterization
Authors: Y Xiao, L Zhou, H Hao, Y Bao, Q Yin, C Xie
Journal: Crystal Growth & Design
Citations: 47
Year: 2021

2. Title: New salts and cocrystals of pymetrozine with improvements on solubility and humidity stability: Experimental and theoretical study
Authors: D Wu, J Li, Y Xiao, X Ji, C Li, B Zhang, B Hou, L Zhou, C Xie, J Gong, …
Journal: Crystal Growth & Design
Citations: 46
Year: 2021

3. Title: Mechanochemical synthesis of cocrystal: From mechanism to application
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, X Hu, K Chen, L Qi, P Cui, L Zhou, Q Yin
Journal: Crystal Growth & Design
Citations: 29
Year: 2023

4. Title: Cocrystal engineering strategy for sustained release and leaching reduction of herbicides: a case study of metamitron
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, L Zhou, Q Yin, J Yang
Journal: Green Chemistry
Citations: 24
Year: 2022

5. Title: Pursuing Green and Efficient Agriculture from Molecular Assembly: A Review of Solid-State Forms on Agrochemicals
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, P Cui, L Zhou, Q Yin
Journal: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
Citations: 21
Year: 2023

6. Title: Analysis of solid-liquid equilibrium behavior of highly water-soluble beet herbicide metamitron in thirteen pure solvents using experiments and molecular simulations
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, C Zhao, L Qi, Y Bao, L Zhou, Q Yin
Journal: Journal of Molecular Liquids
Citations: 18
Year: 2022

7. Title: Structure analysis and insight into hydrogen bond and van der Waals interactions of etoricoxib cocrystals and cocrystal solvate
Authors: Y Wang, L Wang, F Zhang, N Wang, Y Gao, Y Xiao, Z Wang, Y Bao
Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
Citations: 16
Year: 2022

8. Title: Comparison Study of KBH4 Spherical Agglomerates Prepared in Different Antisolvents: Mechanisms and Properties
Authors: Z Zhang, L Wang, P Zhao, Y Xiao, H Hao, Y Bao
Journal: Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research
Citations: 13
Year: 2021

9. Title: Intermolecular interactions and solubility behavior of multicomponent crystal forms of 2,4-D: Design, structure analysis, and solid-state characterization
Authors: L Fang, Y Xiao, C Zhang, Z Gao, S Wu, J Gong, S Rohani
Journal: CrystEngComm
Citations: 13
Year: 2021

10. Title: Enhancing adsorption capacity and herbicidal efficacy of 2,4-D through supramolecular self-assembly: insights from cocrystal engineering to solution chemistry
Authors: Y Xiao, C Wu, P Cui, X Luo, L Zhou, Q Yin
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Citations: 12
Year: 2023