Dr. PRANABA Nayak | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Chemistry Awards

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.

Professional Profile : 

Google Scholar

Orcid

Scopus 

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

Prof. Dr. Zhou Xu | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Chemistry Awards

Prof. Dr. Zhou Xu | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Zhou Xu , Analytical Chemistry , Assistant Dean at Changsha University of Science & Technology, China

Dr. Zhou Xu is a distinguished Professor and Assistant Dean at the School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology. He earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Jiangnan University Specializing in food safety, bio sensing, and nanomaterials, Dr. Xu has led numerous national research projects focused on food quality monitoring and rapid detection technologies. With a proven record of innovative research, he has published extensively in top-tier journals like ACS Sensors, Analytical Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering Journal. His pioneering work in biosensors, nanozymes, and magnetic relaxation sensors has earned him multiple research grants and provincial awards. Dr. Xu is recognized for integrating interdisciplinary approaches involving chemistry, biology, and materials science to address critical food safety challenges. His leadership in scientific research and education continues to influence advancements in food science, public health, and nanotechnology applications.

Professional Profile : 

Orcid

Scopus  

Summary of Suitability for Award:

Prof. Zhou Xu is highly suitable for nomination for the “Best Researcher Award.” He holds a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (2013) from Jiangnan University and currently serves as a Professor and Assistant Dean at the School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology. His academic trajectory—from Lecturer to Professor—demonstrates steady and significant advancement based on merit. His research focus on biosensors, food safety detection, magnetic relaxation sensors, and nanozyme-based immunoassays has led to high-impact publications in prestigious journals like ACS Sensors, Analyst, Analytical Chemistry, and Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Notably, many of his papers are published as first or corresponding author, reflecting his leadership in research projects. He has secured multiple national and provincial research grants totaling millions of RMB, notably presiding over projects under China’s National Key Research and Development Program. His ability to independently lead large-scale, cutting-edge research initiatives and translate them into real-world food safety applications highlights his excellence in innovation, scientific contribution, and societal impact.

🎓Education:

Dr. Zhou Xu began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biotechnology from Central South University of Forestry and Technology (2001–2005). He then pursued a Master of Science (M.S.) in Processing and Storage of Agricultural Products from the same university, graduating in 2009. Building on this strong foundation, Dr. Xu earned his Ph.D. in Food Nutrition and Safety (Physical Chemistry) from Jiangnan University in March 2013. His doctoral research focused on advanced methodologies for food quality assurance and safety analysis. Throughout his education, Dr. Xu consistently demonstrated excellence, laying the groundwork for a successful academic and research career. His interdisciplinary background spanning biotechnology, food science, and physical chemistry uniquely positions him to address complex issues at the intersection of food safety, nanotechnology, and biosensor development. His education equipped him with diverse skills crucial for his innovative contributions to food science research and technology.

🏢Work Experience:

Dr. Zhou Xu’s academic career began in January 2014 as a Lecturer at Changsha University of Science and Technology. His dedication and research achievements led to his promotion to Associate Professor in August 2018, and then to full Professor in January 2022. Currently, he also serves as the Assistant Dean of the School of Food Science and Bioengineering. Over the years, he has successfully led multiple major research projects funded by national and provincial agencies, focusing on intelligent food safety monitoring, rapid detection technologies, and biosensors. Dr. Xu’s professional journey reflects his strong leadership, mentorship of young researchers, and innovative project management. His deep expertise in bio sensing and nanomaterials has significantly advanced the field of food safety detection. Under his leadership, the university’s research capacity in biosensor technology has expanded greatly. He actively collaborates across disciplines to drive technological innovations addressing real-world food safety challenges.

🏅Awards: 

Dr. Zhou Xu has garnered numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career. He has been the recipient of the prestigious Fund for Excellent Youth of Hunan Province, recognizing his outstanding contributions to biosensor development for food safety (2022–2025). His projects have also secured significant funding from major national agencies, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province. Dr. Xu’s innovative work in food quality detection technologies has been praised for its practical impact and scientific excellence. His consistent success in obtaining competitive research grants highlights his reputation as a leading researcher in his field. Moreover, his work has earned him recognition in academic and government circles as a key contributor to the advancement of intelligent food safety monitoring systems. These awards and honors underline Dr. Xu’s exceptional dedication to scientific innovation, research excellence, and societal impact in the field of food science.

🔬Research Focus:

Dr. Zhou Xu’s research centers on the development of innovative biosensors and nanotechnology-based solutions for food safety detection. His work integrates magnetic relaxation switch sensors, nanozyme-based immunoassays, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to enhance sensitivity and speed in detecting contaminants like aflatoxin B1, cadmium ions, and bisphenol A. By designing intelligent detection platforms based on the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced materials, Dr. Xu aims to revolutionize food quality supervision and rapid analysis. His studies focus heavily on improving catalytic mechanisms, developing dual-mode immunosensors (fluorescence and magnetic sensing), and constructing biomimetic materials for enhanced assay performance. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, Dr. Xu bridges chemistry, biology, and material science to address major food safety challenges. His research not only advances academic knowledge but also directly impacts industrial practices and public health regulations. Dr. Xu is committed to pioneering practical, scalable technologies for real-time food safety monitoring.

Publication Top Notes:

1.Title: Alanine Substitution to Determine the Effect of LR5 and YR6 Rice Peptide Structure on Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity

2.Title: Formation and Characterization of Self-Assembled Rice Protein Hydrolysate Nanoparticles as Soy Isoflavone Delivery Systems

3.Title: Target-modulated UCNPs-AChE assembly equipped with microenvironment-responsive immunosensor
Authors: Zhou Xu et al.

4.Title: Peroxidase-mimetic activity of a nanozyme with uniformly dispersed Fe₃O₄ NPs supported by mesoporous graphitized carbon for determination of glucose

5.Title: Three-dimensional assembly and disassembly of Fe₃O₄-decorated porous carbon nanocomposite with enhanced transversal relaxation for magnetic resonance sensing of bisphenol A

6.Title: Assembly of USPIO/MOF nanoparticles with high proton relaxation rates for ultrasensitive magnetic resonance sensing

7.Title: Metal Organic Frame-Upconverting Nanoparticle Assemblies for the FRET Based Sensor Detection of Bisphenol A in High-Salt Foods

8.Title: Extraction of antioxidant peptides from rice dreg protein hydrolysate via an angling method

9.Title: A nanozyme-linked immunosorbent assay based on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for sensitive detection of aflatoxin B₁

10.Title: Aptamer-enhanced fluorescence determination of bisphenol A after magnetic solid-phase extraction using Fe₃O₄@SiO₂@aptamer

11.Title: Recent Advances in Porphyrin-Based Materials for Metal Ions Detection

12.Title: Metal-Organic Frameworks of MIL-100(Fe, Cr) and MIL-101(Cr) for Aromatic Amines Adsorption from Aqueous Solutions