In a significant leap forward for scientific research, SRM University-AP proudly inaugurated the 400 MHz NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) Spectrometer, procured through the DST-FIST program. This acquisition is a vital component of the broader DST FIST project, which has been awarded to the Department of Chemistry at SRM University- AP with a budget of 2.20 crores.

As part of the project, the Department of Chemistry was recommended a 400 MHz NMR spectrometer by DST, which will play a crucial role in enhancing our expertise and aiding in achieving the proposed objectives. This state-of-the-art equipment is capable of characterising organic, inorganic, and biomolecules, enabling us to conduct comprehensive analyses and advance our understanding of complex chemical systems.

The ceremony, graced by esteemed guests, university dignitaries, faculties, and students, heralded a new era of scientific exploration and innovation. Prof. Lakshmi Kantam Mannepalli, Dr B P Godrej Distinguished Professor, ICT Mumbai, Chief Guest at the event, expressed, ” The inauguration of the 400 MHz NMR Spectrometer heralds a new era of precision and insight in scientific exploration. This instrument will unravel the mysteries of molecular structures and catalyse groundbreaking discoveries in the realm of chemistry and beyond.”

Dr S Mannathan, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, extended a warm welcome to the esteemed gathering and offered an insightful demonstration of the equipment’s operation, highlighting its advanced features and functionalities.

Prof. Manoj K Arora, Vice Chancellor, conveyed heartfelt congratulations to the team for this remarkable accomplishment, emphasising the transformative impact the new NMR Spectrometer will have on research and academic pursuits within the Department of Chemistry and beyond.”

Prof D Narayana Rao, Executive Director – Research, SRM Group of Institutions, emphasised, “The addition of this advanced equipment will significantly enhance the research capabilities, opening new avenues for exploration and discovery.”

V S Rao, Advisor, lauded the team for their achievement, stating, “This state-of-the-art equipment embodies our commitment to providing cutting-edge resources for our researchers and fostering a culture of innovation and discovery.”

Dr Pardha Saradhi Maram, Head of the Department of Chemistry, expressed his gratitude to all present and extended heartfelt thanks for their support and encouragement.

The acquisition of the 400 MHz NMR Spectrometer represents a significant advancement in scientific instrumentation, enabling researchers to delve deeper into molecular structures, chemical compositions, and dynamic processes. The Equipment will not only benefit the Department of Chemistry and Physics but also serve as a valuable resource for faculties and students across various disciplines.

The university has already trained 70 to 80 individuals in the operation of this equipment and is planning to organise a workshop for students and faculties from different universities, offering them the opportunity to leverage this advanced technology for their research and academic pursuits.

The Department of Chemistry at SRM University-AP has taken a significant initiative by organising an International Conference on “Emerging Trends in Supramolecular Science and Technology” (ETSST-2024) on March 07 and 08, 2024. This two-day conference brought together some of the most renowned and accomplished national and international intellectuals in the field of chemistry, who will share their insights and expertise on the latest advancements, emerging trends, and future prospects in the domain of supramolecular science and technology. The conference promises to be a great platform for researchers, scientists, academicians, and students to exchange ideas, network, and collaborate towards making breakthrough contributions in the field.

The conference marked the presence of academic stalwarts from institutes of national and international repute who expounded on the relevance of the conference and discoursed upon the various topics.

The event also featured the unveiling of the abstract book compiled by the department. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora; Registrar, Dr R Premkumar; the Associate Dean- Science, Prof. Jayaseelan Murugaiyan; Chairman and Convenor ETSST-2024, Prof. C Pulla Rao; HoD- Chemistry, Dr Pardha Saradhi Maram; Dr Seema Rani and Dr Balaji Babu, Assistant Professors, Department of Chemistry, SRM AP bore witness to this momentous occasion.

At its core, the essence of this conference lay in its audacious objective – to unravel the enigmatic world of supramolecular science, where chemistry transcends the boundaries of individual molecules. It is a domain where complexity breeds innovation, and practical applications pave the way for unprecedented advancements in engineering and technology.

As the curtains drew to a close on this grand spectacle, the echoes of inspiration and collaboration continued to reverberate within the hearts and minds of all who were part of this transformative experience. The bonds forged and the knowledge shared during ETSST-2024 will forever shape the trajectory of supramolecular science and technology.

In a world of fast-escalating environmental challenges, the idea of sustainability comes as a ray of hope for a safe and sound future. The present scenario calls for the kind of development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the future. In this regard, the Department of Chemistry at SRM University-AP organised a colloquium, that aimed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the concepts of Green Chemistry.

Dr Ram Mohan, an expert in the field of Green Chemistry and a renowned academician at the Department of Chemistry, Illinois Wesleyan University, delivered a lecture on the topic “Better Living Through Green Chemistry: An Introduction to Toxic Molecules”. Dr Mohan spoke elaborately on the grave dangers of toxic molecules and their adverse effects on the environment and human health. He raised awareness about the critical role of green chemistry in reducing the usage of such harmful molecules and replacing them with environmentally safe alternatives.

Dr Mohan also conducted workshops on “Better Living Through Green Chemistry”, as a continuation of his lecture. During the workshop, he quoted several case studies that showcased the benefits of using environmentally safe processes and chemicals in industry. These case studies demonstrated how the practice of green chemistry can lead to the development of numerous Eco-friendly processes and chemicals that have greatly improved human life and reduced environmental impact.

The Department of Chemistry at SRM University-AP organised an academic colloquium called ChemZeal 2 on December 02, 2023. The event aimed to promote the Department and its research among undergraduate and graduate students from various colleges. It also provided a platform for students to interact with chemistry enthusiasts and learn about the latest advancements and research in the field.

ChemZeal 2 featured a lecture by academic stalwart, Prof. U V Varadaraju on Solid-State Materials in Chemistry from the Department of Chemistry, IIT Madras. Prof. Varadaraju also spoke about various aspects of the field, including research, career paths, higher studies, and job opportunities in the industry.

The welcome note was given by the Department Head, Dr Pardha Saradhi Maram, while Vice-Chancellor Prof. Manoj K Arora and Prof. Jayaseelan Murugaiyan, Associate Dean in-charge (Science), also addressed the gathering with their valuable inputs. The event also included an interactive session with the guest speaker, where faculty and students could interact and get expert insights.

ChemZeal 2 also featured a talent test for over 320+ students from different colleges, with prizes awarded to the top three winners. The event was designed to attract students to pursue higher education and research in the field of Chemistry and provided a platform for BSc/MSc/PhD students to showcase their research and interact with potential candidates.

The event organisers – Dr Sabyasachi Chakrabortty (Convenor) & Dr J P Raja Pandiyan (Co-convenor) helped culminate the outreach activity with a campus tour, where attendees could witness state-of-the-art facilities, high-end research labs, and futuristic technology.

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