SRM-AP All News
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- BSc Chemistry Student Secures Prestigious IASc-INSA-NASI Summer Research Fellowship 2025 May 30, 2025
Mr Pilla Teja Vardhan, a second-year B.Sc. Chemistry student, has been selected for the highly prestigious IASc-INSA-NASI Summer Research Fellowship 2025. This esteemed fellowship is jointly offered by the Indian Academy of Sciences (IASc), Indian National Science Academy (INSA), and The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI) India’s premier scientific institutions committed to nurturing research talent across the country.As part of this elite program, Teja Vardhan will spend eight weeks at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mandi, under the expert mentorship of Dr Amit Jaiswal, engaging in cutting-edge research in the field of Nanomatter and advanced material chemistry. This opportunity will enable him to gain valuable hands-on research experience, deepen his scientific insight, and contribute to ongoing investigations in frontier areas of science.
The IASc-INSA-NASI Summer Research Fellowship is known for its rigorous selection process and generous support. Selected students receive a monthly stipend of ₹12,500. The fellowship ensures a fully supported and immersive research experience at some of India’s leading scientific institutions.
About the Fellowship
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The IASc-INSA-NASI Summer Research Fellowship Program is one of India’s most competitive undergraduate research initiatives, designed to provide meritorious students with exposure to advanced scientific research. Fellows work closely with leading researchers across academic and national laboratories, fostering a strong foundation for future scientific careers. - CSE Workshop on Revolutionising Health Care with AI May 30, 2025
In an era when Artificial Intelligence is growing in popularity, the Department of Computer Science and Engineering decided to leverage its possibilities and expand the scope of its application across the Healthcare sector. The five-day workshop titled Revolutionising Health Care with AI: Computer Biology and Computer, sponsored by DST-ANRF, was one such event.The five-day workshop explored the revolutionary potential of AI Technologies in medical diagnostics with special emphasis on the areas of Computational biology. The workshop also focused on areas of Computational Biology and Computer Vision to improve healthcare by enhancing clinical decision making and enabling personalised healthcare treatments and diagnosis.
The workshop saw the participation of academicians, research scientists and industrial experts from the fields of computer sciences, biology and data science. The workshop aimed to facilitate discussions on effectively combining computational techniques with biological research.
The workshop, apart from facilitating cross-disciplinary discussion and knowledge sharing, also laid emphasis on revisiting foundational concepts nd advancements in the areas of computer vision and machine learning. They further explored the practical implications of these concepts. The workshop also offered hands-on training opportunities to give the attendees a clear understanding of the concept and delving into areas like AI and Multiomics Data.
The participants also had the opportunity to engage in brainstorming discussions, explore innovative methods that significantly contribute to healthcare improvement, and use algorithms to enable early detection of disease. Among the notable speakers who spoke at the workshop were Prof. (Dr) Lars Kaderali from the university of University of Cologne; Dr Suvendu Rup from NIT Raipur, Prof. (Dr) Amlan Chakrabarti from the A K Choudhury School of Information Technology at the University of Calcutta and an Adjunct Professor at IIIT Delhi and Prof. (Dr) Ram Bilas Pachori among others. Their insights and expertise offered participants a thought-provoking five-day workshop that would meaningfully benefit the field of Healthcare, paving the way for innovative tools and methods that will enhance patient care.
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- Synthesising Copper-based Particles to Recycle Industrial Mineral Waste into Useful Products May 29, 2025
In an attempt to recycle industrial mineral waste into useful products, Dr Jaidev Kaushik from the Department of Chemistry has worked on synthesising copper-based particles that use light to convert carbonate-rich materials like marble dust into acetic acid, a valuable chemical used in industry and fuel production. He has published his research in a paper titled “Photocatalytic Upcycling of Marble Waste into Acetic Acid” in the prestigious Journal of Materials Chemistry A, having an impact factor of 10.7.
The particles drive the reaction efficiently by illuminating the green light on a mixture of the material and hydrogen peroxide solution. He has also tested the method on other carbonate wastes like chalk dust and scale, showing its potential for recycling industrial mineral waste into useful products.
Abstract
In this study, disk-shaped copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS-NPs) were synthesised via a simple co-precipitation method and used as a photocatalyst for the reduction of carbonate species derived from marble dust into acetic acid (AcOH), an important industrial and biofuel precursor. The photocatalytic reaction was carried out under monochromatic light (525 nm) in a hydrogen peroxide–water mixture, which served as an electron and radical-rich medium. Key parameters such as solvent composition, light source, catalyst concentration and reaction time were optimised to get the maximum yield of AcOH. The reaction mechanism was investigated using radical scavenging experiments. The practical applicability of the approach was further tested on two additional real-life carbonate waste materials, i.e. chalk dust and scale.
Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research
This research offers a sustainable method to convert carbonate-rich industrial wastes like marble dust, chalk dust, and scale into acetic acid, which is widely used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and biofuel industries. By using light-driven reactions with safe, low-cost materials, the process reduces environmental pollution, supports waste valorisation, and contributes to a circular economy. It can be implemented in industries that generate carbonate waste, promoting green chemistry and lowering dependence on fossil-based raw materials.
Collaborations
Dr Sumit Kumar Sonkar (MNIT Jaipur, India)
Future Research Plans
- The adsorption/photodegradation-assisted quick and efficient removal of next-generation advanced pollutants such as microplastic, pesticides, pharmaceutical waste, etc., by hydrophobic carbon aerogel and their doped and functionalised versions.
- Utilising waste-derived heterogeneous catalysts in organic transformation reactions.
- Selective sensing of toxic metal ions/biomarkers/biomolecules using fluorescent nanomaterials.
- Upcycling of carbonates/CO2 via photo/thermal assisted catalysed reactions to get C1 and C2 hydrocarbons (green fuel).
- Reduction of nitrates/N2 via photo/thermal-assisted catalysed reactions to ammonia.
Link to the article
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- From Vision to Victory — SRM AP Tops the Times Ranking 2025! May 29, 2025
SRM University-AP continues its legacy of excellence as it emerges as the No.1 Emerging Engineering Institute under 3 categories in the Times Engineering Institutes Ranking Survey consecutively for the second year. The university secured the top position in the categories – Top Emerging Engineering Institute – Overall, Emerging Engineering Institute – Placements and Emerging Engineering Institute – Research Capability. This is a testament to the SRM AP’s impactful research, global partnerships, innovation, and social outreach, which truly exemplify the spirit of an emerging leader in higher education.
Leading with a Forward-thinking Academic Approach
The university aligns its academic delivery with industry expectations and student aspirations by implementing an Outcome-Based Education (OBE) model that is enhanced by the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS).
The curriculum offers interdisciplinary flexibility through major/minor specialisations and open electives, empowering students to customise their learning pathways. Active and experiential methods—case studies, simulations, projects, internships, and continuous assessments—promote 21st-century life skills, including critical thinking and problem-solving.
A Legacy of Outstanding Placements
SRM AP’s partnerships with leading companies strengthen the relationship between academia and industry, ensuring competent student placements. The university maintains an exceptional placement record, placing students in prestigious companies such as Oracle, IBM, Philips, Neilson IQ, Deloitte, Bosch, Samsung, Hewlett Packard, JPMorgan and Chase, BNY Mellon, TOSHIBA, Amazon, Flipkart Volvo, PayPal, and more.
Core initiatives like mentor-mentee programmes, alumni mentorship, rigorous placement and skill training, instil exceptional resilience and adaptability and help young graduates navigate dynamic market conditions. Also, the ‘Industry-Institute Interaction’ platform allows students to interact with professionals from various industries, helping them gain insights into industry work culture, professional requirements, and career-launching.
Dynamic Ecosystem for Ideas and Impact
SRM AP has a world-class research infrastructure with centres of excellence and a well-equipped library, facilitating cutting-edge research. The research culture has led to 2193 publications (over 40% in Q1 journals), 480+ patents filed, 55+ already granted, and 2 technology transfers with industry. SRM AP ranks 3rd among private universities in the Nature Index 2023 and boasts five faculty members listed in Stanford’s top 2% scientists globally.
A dynamic startup ecosystem supported by corporations, enablers, world-class mentors, top-class institutions, foundations, incubators, and the Government, sets SRM AP apart from its peers. The Hatchlab Research Centre has incubated 40+ startups, and the university’s ADITRI initiative—a CSR-driven rural entrepreneurship summit—has empowered 100 women entrepreneurs from six mandals of Andhra Pradesh through skill-building, mentoring, and market access.
Educating for a New Era
SRM AP has implemented the Strategic Plan 2023–2028 to become an innovation-driven institution, prioritising academic excellence, research innovation, student empowerment, and institutional sustainability. In cognisance of the pioneering vision fuelling Amaravati’s growth, SRM University-AP aspires to build a future-ready, inclusive, and globally respected academic institution that offers holistic education to its students.
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- SRM-AP Partners with Elevium to Offer Industry-Aligned Courses May 28, 2025
In a significant move to enhance skill-based learning through academia–industry collaboration, SRM University-AP, Amaravati, has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Elevium a division of Nanochip Skills Pvt. Ltd, a leading Bengaluru-based industry partner, to deliver cutting-edge, industry-aligned courses to students of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE).This partnership bridges the gap between theoretical education and real-world industry requirements, particularly for ECE students. As part of the MoA, undergraduate ECE students from the 3rd to 7th semesters will have the opportunity to enroll in specialised, industry-aligned courses in VLSI, Embedded Systems, and Edge AI key domains shaping the future of the electronics sector.
Key Highlights of the Agreement:
Structured Course Delivery: One industry-aligned course per semester, each comprising 60 hours – delivered through a hybrid model of 40% offline and 60% online learning.
Enrollment Strategy: Designed for a minimum batch size of 120 students, with optional enrollment extended to students from other departments based on institutional discretion.Elevium will provide expert faculty from the industry, handle curriculum delivery, conduct assessments, and participate in curriculum review through Board of Studies meetings. SRM University-AP will facilitate access to classrooms, labs, and administrative support to integrate these courses seamlessly into the academic structure.
Student Evaluation and Curriculum Design:
Assessment methods and syllabus structures will be collaboratively developed and aligned with SRM-AP’s academic standards. The courses will include continuous evaluations and feedback mechanisms, with grading support from Elevium.
Placement and Career Support:
As part of its commitment, Elevium will extend comprehensive placement support including career counseling, guest lectures by industry experts, internship facilitation, and project guidance to enhance students’ employability.The primary goal of the MoA is to empower undergraduate students with hands-on learning aligned with current industrial practices and to facilitate their transition from classroom to the corporate world through structured and practice-driven academic modules.
The agreement was formally signed in the presence of esteemed dignitaries from both organisations, including Hari Krishnan Puravankara, CEO of Nanochip Group of Companies, Dr Manoranjan Kumar, Manager of university Programs at Nanochip Group of Companies, Dr Prem Kumar, Registrar, Prof. C V Tommy, Dean of SEAS, and other faculty members from the ECE department.
This collaboration exemplifies SRM-AP’s commitment to transforming education by integrating academic knowledge with industrial applications. Thus, students are empowered with real-world competencies that are crucial for tomorrow’s technology leaders.
Continue reading → - The ‘Unholy’ Trinity: Repression of the Working- Class in Late-Colonial Bengal May 21, 2025
Dr Manaswini Sen, Assistant Professor in the Department of History at SRM University – AP, Amaravati in her chapter titled “The ‘Unholy’ Trinity: Syndicate of the Colonial State, Capitalists, and the Police; Repression and Corporate Policing of Working-Class Movement in Late-Colonial Bengal (1930–1947)”, published in Exploring Power and Authority in Indian History Across the Ages (Springer), investigates how the colonial state, capitalist interests, and the police referred to as the “unholy trinity”collaborated to repress working-class movements in late-colonial Calcutta between 1930 and 1947.The study examines the complex interests of the capitalist class and the British imperial state in late colonial India, focusing on their collective oppression towards labor radicalisation. It examines the legal measures taken by the British imperial state to monitor working-class militarisation and the strategies employed by capitalists to disrupt strikes and deny workers’ claims.
The chapter also discusses the establishment of white or pro-state unions that used communalism to disrupt strikes and hinder revolutionary union movements in late colonial Calcutta. The chapter provides new perspectives on competition-collaboration theories, discusses the role of Indian capitalists, and explores the question of communalism in trade union politics in late colonial Bengal. It is relevant for those working in labour history, mass movement history, late colonial Calcutta, and urban history.
About the book :
Exploring Power and Authority in Indian History Across the Ages offers a nuanced exploration of power and authority in Indian history through a series of case studies spanning different regions and time periods. It examines the sociological, cultural, economic, and historical dimensions of power, critiques dominant ideologies, and highlights responses from marginalised groups. Providing insights into diverse political structures from ancient to modern times, this volume is a valuable resource for historians, scholars, and researchers of Indian and South Asian history.
Continue reading → - Analysing Thermo-mechanical Bending Behaviour of Sigmoid FGM Sandwich Plate May 21, 2025
Dr Supen Kumar Sah, Assistant Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering presents his exclusive study on the thermo-mechanical bending behaviour of functionally graded material (FGM) sandwich plates using the Sinusoidal Shear Deformation Theory (SSDT) in his recent paper titled “Thermo-mechanical bending of power and sigmoid FGM sandwich plate using sinusoidal shear deformation theory”. The paper has been published in the Journal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites, having an impact factor of 3.2.
Abstract
This study examines the thermo-mechanical bending behaviour of functionally graded material (FGM) sandwich plates with temperature-dependent properties. FGMs, typically made from metal and ceramic, combine rigidity and high thermal resistance, and their properties are assumed to vary continuously in thickness. Using sigmoid and power law distributions, we analyse the smooth variation of properties and apply a one-dimensional heat conduction equation to determine temperature changes. The Sinusoidal Shear Deformation Theory (SSDT) is utilised to account for the sinusoidal distribution of shear stress while meeting traction-free boundary conditions. We derive the governing equations through Hamilton’s variational principle and Navier’s solution, resulting in closed-form solutions for center deflection, and normal and shear stresses of the plates. The analysis reveals that temperature-dependent properties and gradation indices significantly affect central deflection, normal stress, and shear stress. The SSDT results align well with existing shear deformation theory, confirming its accuracy.
Dr Sah collaborated with Dr Anup Ghosh from IIT Kharagpur on the research study. He aims to continue his research on FGMA and focus on the structural analysis of multidirectional Functionally Graded Material sandwich plates in the future.
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- Critical agendas for the areal linguistics: locating Sindhi within South Asia May 20, 2025
The Sindhi language presents a compelling case for examining the intersections of language, territory, and identity in the post-Partition context. In India, Sindhi often survives as a spoken language, primarily confined to the domestic sphere. This restricted use raises important questions about the conditions necessary for linguistic vitality.Exploring the complexities surrounding Sindhi Dr Soni Wadhwa, Assistant Professor in the Department of Literature and Languages, has published a research article titled “Critical agendas for the areal linguistics: locating Sindhi within South Asia” in the Q1 journal Journal of Critical Inquiry in Language Studies. This publication contributes significantly to scholarly discussions on areal linguistics, offering critical insights into the precarious position of Sindhi and the broader implications for language studies in postcolonial South Asia.
This article explores these dynamics to foreground the often-overlooked role of technological, epistemological, and aesthetic resources in sustaining minority languages. In doing so, it positions Sindhi as a critical lens through which to understand the challenges faced by minoritised languages in the Global South, particularly those without a clear territorial anchoring.
Abstract
As a concept within applied linguistics, areal linguistics concerns itself with investigating the nature of structural similarities among languages produced by contact rather than by history or by genetic similarities. A critical look at its descriptive linguistic agendas reveals that the domain needs to be revisited in terms of questions of power relations and linguistic inequalities within specific linguistic
areas. Such investigations reconfigure the dynamics of geography and regionality within language as a site of power.This study seeks to make an intervention into India as a linguistic area with a focus on Sindhi, a non-regional language in India. Given that the language and the community do not have a state or a linguistic territory within India, the condition of Sindhi is characterised by a sense of precarity. Seen through the prism of India as a linguistic area, this precarity is not quite visible. In revisiting the celebrated concept of India as a linguistic area, this study suggests ways of asking contemporary questions about areal linguistics that go beyond describing the nature of contact among languages, and instead ask how this contact impacts the markers of hegemony over minor languages in terms of technological,epistemological, and aesthetic leverage.
Social Implications of the Research
This research might help in building further study around minority languages in India as well as elsewhere in the Global South, we empower more languages. This will help people who know regional languages access the Internet and other aspects that Digital India aspires to address.
Sindhis in India are scattered in different cities and speak the regional or state languages or English at home. This work helps in pushing more research on the language and the community which can further inform policies for linguistic empowerment.
Continue reading → - Advancing Next-Gen PEM Fuel Cells: Role of Nanostructured Catalysts May 20, 2025
The transition to sustainable energy sources has become imperative due to the exhaustion of conventional resources caused by excessive use and their detrimental impact on the environment. Currently, alternative energy sources, such as solar, wind, nuclear, tidal, and geothermal energy, hydro have been introduced. Over the last few decades, focus has shifted to the use of hydrogen energy as a promising alternative to traditional power sources in almost all sectors requiring energy applications.However, a major challenge holding back their widespread use is the high cost and limited performance of a key component called the catalyst layer (CL). This layer is responsible for speeding up the chemical reaction that generates electricity, but it typically requires a large amount of platinum, a rare and expensive metal and often has a thick, disordered structure that reduces efficiency.
This research, titled “Towards Next-Generation proton exchange membrane fuel Cells: The role of nanostructured catalyst layers” led by Dr. Narayanamoorthy Bhuvanendran, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, was published in the Q1 Journal, Chemical Engineering Journal, with an Impact Factor of 13.4. The paper focuses on designing advanced nanostructured catalyst layers that are thinner, more organised, and use much less platinum. These next-generation CLs can help fuel cells perform better, last longer, and become more affordable.
The study reviews recent progress in this field, highlights innovative methods for creating these new structures, and outlines future directions to improve their practicality and environmental impact. Ultimately, this work aims to bring us closer to clean, efficient, and widely accessible fuel cell technology.
Fuel cells offer clean energy with zero emissions when using hydrogen, and higher energy efficiency than diesel or gas engines. Among them, Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) are one of the most promising technologies. PEMFCs produce only water as a byproduct, making them a clean energy alternative to fossil fuels.
Abstract:
Catalyst layer (CL) is the major component of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and routinely fabricated by a catalyst ink-based processing method. Such conventional CLs typically confront low activity, unaffordable Pt loading, and severe mass transport issues due to the thick and disordered structure, hampering the widespread commercial application of PEMFCs.Engineering of nanostructured CLs with low/ultralow Pt loading, ordered and/or ultrathin CLs, provides a highly promising pathway for overcoming these limitations. For the practical application of the nanostructured CLs in PEMFCs, this review comprehensively summarises and comments on the important research and development of nanostructured CLs over recent years, involving ordered electronic conductor-based CLs, ordered ionomer-based CLs, and ultrathin CLs.
The reviewed processes include
(i) analysing the motivation and necessity to design and fabricate nanostructured CLs based on the structure and mass transport process of conventional CLs,
(ii) scrutinising structure and composition, preparation methods, advantages, as well as
some feasible strategies for the remaining challenges of various nanostructured CLs in
detail,
(iii) the progress of single cell activity and durability of the nanostructured CLs. Finally, some perspectives on remaining challenges and future development of the nanostructured CLs are presented to guide the exploitation for the next-generation of advanced CLs of PEMFCs.Practical implementations:
The practical objective of this study is to facilitate the development of more efficient, cost-effective, and durable proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) through the redesign of the catalyst layer utilising advanced nanostructures. This enhancement has the potential to substantially decrease dependence on costly platinum, reduce production expenses, and enhance the overall performance of fuel cells.
In terms of societal impact, this research contributes to the transition towards clean and sustainable energy systems, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution associated with conventional fossil fuels. By making fuel cell technology more accessible and scalable, particularly for transportation and portable power applications, it supports global initiatives to combat climate change and improve energy security for future generations.
Collaborations:
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Prof. Huaneng Su, Institute for Energy Research, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China. - A Full-bridge Multiple-load LED Driver Offering Clean Energy May 16, 2025
The Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering proudly announces that the invention “Zero Voltage Switching Full-bridge Converter for Multiple LED Lighting Loads with Reduced Switch Current” with Application number: 202241076718 has been granted to Dr Ramanjaneya Reddy, Assistant Professor, Dr Tousif Khan Nizami, Associate Professor, and Ms Aswini Patakamoori, PhD Scholar in the Indian Patent Office Journal.
The research focuses on creating an energy-efficient power supply for LED lights, especially in areas that use a DC electricity system. The team has designed a system that can power multiple LED lights from a single unit, saving energy and cost. This system works at a very high efficiency of about 97.5%, which means very little energy is wasted as heat.
The special design uses a method called “soft switching,” which helps the internal parts of the system turn on and off with less stress, reducing heat and improving lifespan. It also needs fewer parts for each light, making it simpler, more reliable, and cheaper to produce. Additionally, the system allows the lights to be dimmed easily using a basic on-off control method, giving flexibility in brightness as needed.
Abstract
A 110 W soft-switched full-bridge multiple load LED driver is designed for DC-grid applications, achieving a high efficiency of 97.52%. The full-bridge configuration ensures that the switches carry minimal current, reducing conduction losses, and offers zero-voltage switching, significantly lowering switching losses. The reduced component count per lamp simplifies the design, enhances reliability, and reduces overall system costs. Additionally, the driver supports PWM-based dimming through simple on-off control, offering flexibility in illumination levels.
Practical Implementation/ Social Implications of the Research
The developed 110 W soft-switched full-bridge multiple-load LED driver is a highly efficient and scalable solution tailored for DC-grid applications, particularly those integrated with solar and battery-based energy systems. Operating at an impressive efficiency of 97.52% ensures minimal energy loss. This technology promotes sustainable development by enabling cleaner energy usage and reducing carbon emissions. Its simple, cost-effective design makes advanced lighting more accessible, especially in low-income or remote communities. Additionally, the ability to dim lights easily helps conserve energy further and allows users to adapt lighting to different needs, enhancing comfort and minimising waste.
Future Research Plans
To design more efficient, adaptable, and sustainable LED driver circuits,
- Extending soft-switching techniques to automotive, industrial, and smart lighting systems for broader applications.
- Incorporating digital control strategies for intelligent dimming, adaptive power regulation, and real-time performance monitoring.
- Exploring advanced semiconductor materials, such as Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Silicon Carbide (SiC), to enhance switching performance and thermal stability. Integration of energy harvesting techniques to create self-sustaining LED driver systems powered by renewable sources such as solar energy.
