Dr. Manorama Sunkara Vardhireddy, a former Chief Scientist at the CSIR Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), has received the prestigious Raja Ramanna Chair awarded by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India. This honor recognizes her extensive contributions to materials science, focusing on her innovative work in chemical sensors and nanostructured materials.
The Raja Ramanna Chair was established to utilize the expertise of retired scientists, engineers, and technologists who have significant experience in critical technologies. Dr. Sunkara’s background in Physics from Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) laid the foundation for her impactful research in materials science, particularly in the development of advanced sensors.
Throughout her career, Dr. Sunkara has made remarkable advancements in the detection of toxic and explosive gases. She has developed sensors capable of operating at low and room temperatures for applications in nuclear reactors and defense, such as a hydrogen sensor and a carbon monoxide sensor, which have been recognized as breakthrough research.
Her work has consistently pushed the boundaries of materials research at CSIR IICT, leading to advancements in fields like biosensors, third-generation solar cells, and biomedical devices. Through her leadership, her research group has achieved precise control over materials synthesis, allowing for the creation of nanostructures that can be used in various applications, including drug delivery and bioimaging.
Dr. Sunkara’s scientific accomplishments are noteworthy, with over 130 original research publications to her name, and nearly 20 of her papers have been cited more than 100 times. She has earned a high h-index and is recognized on Stanford University’s list of the world’s top 2% most cited scientists in Materials Research.
In addition to her research, Dr. Sunkara is dedicated to scientific outreach, actively participating in faculty development programs and public science engagement initiatives. Her role as a mentor to aspiring scientists is a significant aspect of her career.
The tenure of the Raja Ramanna Chair position is for three years, and Dr. Sunkara will officially join CSIR IICT in this prestigious role. The Director and staff at CSIR IICT extend their heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Manorama Sunkara for this well-deserved recognition and wish her continued success in her future endeavors.
-Rashmi Kumari
