INTRODUCTION
Dr. Illa Ramakanth is a distinguished chemist and academician, currently serving as the Senior Associate Professor & Head of the Department of Chemistry at VIT-AP University, Amaravati, India. With a strong foundation in Physical Chemistry, his research and teaching career spans over two decades, significantly contributing to the field of analytical chemistry, nanotechnology, and environmental studies.
EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS
Dr. Ramakanth pursued his B.Sc. in Chemistry from Andhra University, followed by an M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry from the same institution. His passion for advanced research led him to obtain a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the prestigious IIT Madras. During his doctoral studies, he specialized in cutting-edge research that laid the foundation for his future contributions in chemistry.
PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS
Dr. Ramakanth’s career is marked by a blend of academic excellence and research innovation. Before joining VIT-AP University, he served as an Assistant Professor at IIIT Nuzvid, Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technologies (RGUKT-AP), India, for over a decade. His leadership roles include:
- Head of the Department (HoD), Department of Chemistry, VIT-AP University (2023-Present)
- Associate Dean (Academics), IIIT Nuzvid, RGUKT-AP (2015-2018, 2021-2022)
- Erasmus+ Coordinator for European Staff and Student Mobility (2016-2021)
- Industrial Collaboration Committee Coordinator, VIT-AP University (2023-Present)
CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Sciences
Dr. Ramakanth’s research focuses on analytical chemistry, nanotechnology, materials science, and environmental chemistry. His international collaborations include:
- Postdoctoral Research Fellowships at the University of Calgary, Canada, and VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Visiting Researcher at the University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Erasmus+ Visiting Faculty Fellowships at Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovakia
His pioneering research in nano-materials and environmental chemistry has led to numerous publications, patents, and funded projects.
IMPACT AND INFLUENCE
Dr. Ramakanth has mentored numerous undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, significantly shaping the next generation of chemists. His teaching methodologies and curriculum innovations at VIT-AP University have been instrumental in modernizing chemistry education.
ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS
Dr. Ramakanth has authored numerous research papers in reputed international journals, covering areas such as:
- Nanomaterials in Catalysis
- Analytical Techniques in Environmental Chemistry
- Advanced Spectroscopic Methods
- Sustainable Chemical Technologies
His work has been cited extensively, establishing his prominence in the scientific community.
HONORS & AWARDS
- Erasmus+ Mobility Fellowship (European Commission)
- Executive Committee Member, Royal Society of Chemistry (UK) – Local Section Deccan
- Foreign External Examiner, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Postdoctoral Fellowships from Canada, South Korea, and Czech Republic
- CSIR Senior Research Fellowship (India)
LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS
Looking ahead, Dr. Ramakanth aims to expand his research in sustainable chemistry, develop interdisciplinary collaborations, and contribute to global scientific advancements. His vision is to bridge academia with industry, fostering innovation that addresses real-world chemical challenges.
FINAL NOTE
Dr. Illa Ramakanth stands as a beacon of excellence in chemistry research and education. His dedication to scientific progress, commitment to mentoring young researchers, and leadership in academic administration continue to drive innovation and excellence in the field.
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS