Iyakutti Kombiah | Materials Chemistry | Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Iyakutti Kombiah | Materials Chemistry | Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Iyakutti Kombiah | SRM Institute of Science and Technology | India

Dr. Iyakutti Kombiah, an eminent physicist and computational materials scientist, has made outstanding contributions to condensed matter physics, nanomaterials, and energy storage research, with a career spanning over four decades. He obtained his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Madras, followed by postdoctoral research in quantum chemistry at Uppsala University, Sweden, supported by SIDA. He served as Lecturer at the University of Madras, Reader and Professor at Madurai Kamaraj University, and later as Professor Emeritus and CSIR Emeritus Scientist at SRM University. His pioneering expertise lies in computational design and experimental validation of nanomaterials for hydrogen storage, photovoltaics, and CO₂ conversion, demonstrated through his leadership of multiple AOARD and ONRG-funded international projects. A prolific scholar with over 229 publications, 1,804 citations, and an h-index of 24, his research continues to influence the fields of energy materials and quantum chemistry. Dr. Iyakutti has held visiting positions at leading institutions in Japan, Canada, and the USA, fostering global collaborations. His recent works (2020–2025) focus on graphene-based hydrogen storage, Heusler alloys, and 2D nanomaterials, combining density functional theory with experimental studies. Honored with CSIR and UGC Emeritus Fellowships, he remains a leading figure advancing computational and sustainable energy materials research in India and beyond.

Profile: ORCID  | Scopus 

Featured Publications

  • Iyakutti, K., Reji, R. P., Rajeswarapalanichamy, R., & Kawazoe, Y. (2025). DFT based computational investigation of 2D monolayer gold (Au)–the goldene. Computational Condensed Matter, 25, e01132.

  • Iyakutti, K., Reji, R. P., Jayan, S., AjayJawahar, K., Karthigeyan, A., Rajeswarapalanichamy, R., & Kawazoe, Y. (2025). Heterostructuring, electronic and hydrogen storage properties of boron, carbon, nitrogen based 2D nanomaterials – A DFT study. International Journal of Computational Materials Science and Engineering, 14(3), 2550028.

  • Iyakutti, K., Reji, R. P., Rajeswarapalanichamy, R., & Kawazoe, Y. (2025, February 26). DFT based computational investigation of 2D monolayer gold (Au)–the goldene. Preprint.

  • Kaliyaperumal, A., Periyasamy, G., Iyakutti, K., & Annamalai, K. (2024). Effect of a mesoporous NiCo₂O₄ urchin-like structure catalyzed with a surface oxidized LiBH₄ system for reversible hydrogen storage applications. RSC Advances, 14, 12345–12354.

  • Iyakutti, K., Reji, R. P., AjayJawahar, K., Lakshmi, I., Rajeswarapalanichamy, R., Surya, V. J., Karthigeyan, A., & Kawazoe, Y. (2024). Interaction of H, H₂, and MgH₂ with graphene and possible application to hydrogen storage—A density functional computational investigation. International Journal of Quantum Chemistry, 124(15), e27467.

 

 

 

Ms. Sakshi Saini | Material Chemistry Award | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sakshi Saini | Material Chemistry Award | Best Researcher Award 

Ms. Sakshi Saini, Gurukula Kangri (DTB) University, Haridwar, India

Sakshi Saini is an aspiring chemist with a passion for practical laboratory experience and a strong foundation in analytical chemistry. With a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, and Math from H.N.B. Garhwal University and a Master’s in Industrial Chemistry from Gurukul Kangri University, she is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Nanochemistry of Biopolymer. During her internship at Wipro Enterprises, she honed her skills in inventory management, laboratory equipment calibration, and chemical testing. Sakshi is dedicated to advancing her career in chemistry and is eager to contribute to team goals while further developing her technical and interpersonal skills.

Professional Profile:

Google Scholar  

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Sakshi Saini, currently pursuing her Doctorate in Nanochemistry of Biopolymers at Gurukul Kangri University, is an exemplary candidate for the “Best Researcher Awards.” Her academic record is distinguished, with a strong foundation in chemistry, evidenced by her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, both achieving commendable scores of 88% and 85%, respectively.

🎓Education:

Sakshi Saini completed her High School (Science) at National Inter College, Dhanauri, with a score of 72% (2014-2015). She pursued her Intermediate (Science) at the same institution, achieving 85% (2016-2017). Her academic journey continued with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Physics, and Math from H.N.B. Garhwal University, where she excelled with an 88% (2017-2020). She further advanced her studies by obtaining a Master’s degree in Industrial Chemistry from Gurukul Kangri University, securing an impressive 85% (2020-2022). Currently, she is enrolled in a Doctor’s program focused on Nanochemistry of Biopolymer at Gurukul Kangri University, which commenced in September 2023. Sakshi’s educational background showcases her commitment to the field of chemistry and her continuous pursuit of knowledge.

🏢Work Experience:

Sakshi Saini gained practical experience as an Analyst Intern at Wipro Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. from January 2022 to January 2023. During her internship, she was responsible for inventory control of reagents, chemicals, and supplies, ensuring proper labeling and management through a computerized system. Sakshi demonstrated her technical abilities by calibrating and safely operating laboratory equipment, which included conducting standard tests on organic and inorganic compounds. She was also involved in testing raw and packing materials, contributing to the quality assurance processes within the organization. This hands-on experience allowed her to apply her academic knowledge in a professional setting, enhancing her analytical skills and understanding of chemical analysis. Sakshi’s internship solidified her career aspirations in the field of chemistry, where she aims to utilize her skills effectively in future roles.

🏅Awards:

Sakshi Saini has received several accolades for her academic achievements and contributions to the field of chemistry. In 2013, she was awarded the “Student of the Year” by LIC Corporations India for her exceptional performance in her academic course. In recognition of her potential, she received a scholarship for higher education under the Inspire Scheme in 2017. Additionally, she completed the Barclays Life Skills Program conducted by the GTT Foundation in 2021. Sakshi’s commitment to research has been recognized by the National Medicinal Plant Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, where she presented a paper on biocomposite film synthesis at the “Ayurveda for One Health” international seminar in 2023. She also participated and presented a paper at the International Conference on VEDA VIJNANA & SANSKRITI MAHAKUMBHA in Gurukul Kangri University in 2023. These honors reflect her dedication and contributions to the field of chemistry.

🔬Research Focus:

Sakshi Saini’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology and sustainable practices, specifically in the development of natural biopolymer metallic nanocomposites. Her work focuses on the synthesis and characterization of biopolymers and biocomposites, exploring their applications in biological, physical, and chemical activities. She is particularly interested in water purification techniques and the degradation of dyes through advanced materials. Her proficiency with various analytical instruments, including AAS, HPLC, UV-VIS, FT-IR, SEM, and XRD, equips her to conduct comprehensive studies in these areas. Sakshi aims to contribute to innovative solutions that address environmental challenges, leveraging nanotechnology to enhance the efficacy of biopolymers in practical applications. Her commitment to research is evident through her published works and ongoing projects, as she aspires to make significant advancements in the fields of industrial chemistry and nanotechnology.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Title: A novel Acryloyloxy tamarind kernel powder biocomposites and enhanced antibacterial activity
  • Title: Studies on biopolymer-based nanocomposites reinforced with metallic nanoparticles
  • Title: Industrial chemistry and biopolymers