Prof. K. Nagaraj - Biochemistry - Outstanding Scientist Award

National Forensic Sciences University - India

Author Profile

Early academic pursuits 🎓

K. Nagaraj's academic journey began with a strong foundation in chemistry, earning his B.Sc. in Chemistry from Devanga Arts College, Aruppukottai, Tamil Nadu, in 2007. He furthered his education by obtaining an M.Sc. in Chemistry from SBK College, Aruppukottai, in 2009, where he achieved a commendable 71%. His passion for research led him to pursue an M.Phil. in Chemistry at Madurai Kamaraj University, where he excelled with a score of 78% in 2010. Nagaraj continued his scholarly journey by completing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirapalli, in 2014, focusing on surfactant cobalt(III) complexes.

Professional endeavors 🏢

Nagaraj's professional career is marked by a series of academic appointments across various prestigious institutions. He has served as an Assistant Professor at several universities, including the School of Pharmacy at the National Forensic Sciences University in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and St. Eugene University in Zambia. His teaching journey also includes positions at institutions such as IISER, Tiruvananthapuram, and VSM Institutions in Andhra Pradesh. His diverse teaching experience has allowed him to share his expertise in chemistry with students from various backgrounds.

Contributions and research focus 🔬

Nagaraj’s research is primarily centered on the isolation and characterization of secondary metabolites from natural resources, as well as the efficient generation of hydrogen using earth-abundant metal ions. His doctoral work delved into the synthesis of surfactant cobalt(III) complexes, focusing on their kinetics of electron Biochemistry transfer and interaction with nucleic acids, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field of chemistry through innovative research.

Accolades and recognition 🏆

K. Nagaraj has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the field of chemistry through numerous awards and fellowships. He qualified for the Graduate Aptitude Test for Engineering (GATE) in 2009 and received a University Research Fellowship from 2010 to 2012. His dedication earned him the UGC Research Biochemistry Fellowship for Meritorious Research Students from 2013 to 2015, as well as the prestigious Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Award for Young Scientists in 2016. In addition, he was honored with the InSc Research Excellency Award in 2022, reflecting his significant impact on the scientific community.

Impact and influence 🌍

Throughout his career, Nagaraj has made substantial contributions to both research and education, influencing the next generation of chemists. His work in photocatalytic chemistry and the development of surfactant complexes has implications for environmental sustainability and drug development. By mentoring Biochemistry students and engaging in collaborative research, he continues to inspire others in the field.

Legacy and future contributions 🌱

As he progresses in his academic career, K. Nagaraj aims to further his research in sustainable chemistry and innovative material development. His ongoing projects and collaborations are expected to yield valuable insights into the practical applications of his research. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for teaching, Nagaraj is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the field of chemistry, contributing to advancements that benefit society as a whole.

Notable Publications

Title: Synthesis and antibacterial evaluation of (5Z)-5-[(2-piperidinequinoline-3-yl)methyl]-2-chloroquinoline derivatives: Docking study on substituted N-alkylation and binding mechanisms with E. Coli PDF enzyme
Authors: Juddhawala, K.V., Parekh, N.M., Alswieleh, A., Nagaraj, K.
Journal: Spectrochimica Acta - Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, 2025, 325, 125114
Title: Formulation and analysis of acrylic emulsion coatings with chrome yellow, phthalocyanine blue, and red oxide pigments using high speed disperser and bead mill techniques
Authors: Badgujar, N.P., Kulkarni, R.D., Govindasamy, C., Bari, M.L., Nagaraj, K.
Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2024, 101(11), 101372
Title: Zirconium-doped zinc nanocomposites (ZDZN): Preparation, characterization, and evaluation of antibacterial activity
Authors: Nagaraj, K., Kaliyaperumal, R., Poovan, V.K., Kasilingam, T., Tharini, K.
Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2024, 101(11), 101386
Title: Sustainable synthesis of iron oxide nanopigments: Enhancing pigment quality through combined air oxidation and cavitation techniques
Authors: Adhav, K.D., Badgujar, N.P., Alswieleh, A., Nagaraj, K.
Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2024, 101(11), 101363
Title: Nano-enhanced antifungal paint: Harnessing nanoparticle-based fungicides for enhanced durability and protection
Authors: Chavan, P.G., Badgujar, N.P., Wadaan, M.A., Nagaraj, K.
Journal: Journal of the Indian Chemical Society, 2024, 101(10), 101257

Early academic pursuits 🎓

Anup Ramdas Kodape’s academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry from Gondwana University, Gadchiroli. He further pursued an M.Sc. in Botany from HISLOP College, Nagpur, where he demonstrated a solid understanding of biological sciences. Currently, he is a Ph.D. candidate in Biological Sciences at CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR-CFTRI), Mysore, under the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research. His doctoral research focuses on food protectants and infestation control, particularly targeting the mitigation of aflatoxins in groundnut seeds.

Professional endeavors 🏢

Anup’s professional experience includes a diverse range of roles in both research and teaching. As a Senior Research Fellow at CSIR-CFTRI, Mysore, he is working on developing strategies to mitigate aflatoxins in groundnut seeds. His previous roles include Junior Research Fellow positions at both CSIR-CFTRI and CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI). At NEERI, he worked on CO2 sequestration using algal photobioreactors and air pollution reduction. His teaching experience includes serving as an Assistant Professor at HISLOP College, where he conducted lectures and practicals in botany for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Contributions and research focus 🔬

Anup’s research is primarily focused on food safety and environmental sustainability. His work at CSIR-CFTRI involves identifying fungal flora in groundnut seeds that produce aflatoxins and developing mitigation strategies using natural compounds, biocontrol, and endophytic challenges. His earlier work at CSIR-NEERI involved CO2 sequestration and air pollution management, showcasing his commitment to addressing Biological Sciences environmental issues through innovative approaches. His contributions significantly advance the understanding and management of aflatoxin contamination and environmental pollution.

Accolades and recognition 🏅

Anup has earned recognition for his academic and research achievements. He has qualified the GATE (Life Sciences) conducted by IIT Bombay Biological Sciences and the UGC NET JRF in Environmental Sciences, which highlights his proficiency in the field. His ongoing Ph.D. research is contributing valuable insights into food safety and environmental protection, garnering respect within the scientific community.

Impact and influence 🌍

Anup’s research has a substantial impact on both food safety and environmental sustainability. His work on aflatoxin mitigation is crucial for improving food security and safety, particularly in groundnut production. Additionally, his contributions to CO2 sequestration and air pollution Biological Sciences reduction are important for addressing global environmental challenges. His research influences practices in food technology and environmental engineering, benefiting both scientific and industrial communities.

Legacy and future contributions 🔮

Anup Ramdas Kodape is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the fields of food safety and environmental science. His innovative research on aflatoxin mitigation and environmental sustainability will likely continue to influence these areas significantly. As he advances in his career, his contributions are expected to further enhance food protection strategies and environmental management practices, contributing to global health and sustainability goals.