Sofia Pacheco | Polymer Matrix Composites | Research Excellence Award
Ms. Sofia Pacheco at Faculty of Engineering – University of Porto | Portugal
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Authors: Sofia Pacheco et al.
Dr. Anjana Jain is a Chief Scientist at the Department of Materials Science, CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories, Bangalore, and an Associate Professor at the Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research. With an M.Sc., MPhil in Physics, and a Ph.D. in Aerospace Polymers, she specializes in the development of indigenous piezoelectric PVDF sensors and composites for aerospace, automotive, and defense applications. Her research contributes significantly to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, reducing foreign dependency. She has led numerous prestigious projects, facilitated technology transfers, patents, and publications, and played a key role in developing accelerometer devices for India’s first indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). ✈️🔬
Dr. Anjana Jain, Chief Scientist at CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) and Associate Professor at AcSIR, is a pioneering researcher in aerospace polymers and smart composite materials. With groundbreaking contributions to piezoelectric PVDF sensors, accelerometer devices, and PVDF-based composite materials, she has significantly impacted aerospace, defense, automotive, and healthcare industries. Her indigenous development of PVDF films has reduced dependency on imports, bolstered national self-sufficiency, and contributed to Atmanirbhar Bharat. Dr. Jain’s research has led to technology transfers, patents, high-impact publications, and prestigious awards, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. 🚀🔬
Dr. Anjana Jain has made remarkable contributions to aerospace and defense technology through pioneering research in piezoelectric PVDF sensors and composites. She has played a crucial role in multiple national projects sponsored by NPMASS, NPMICAV, AR&DB, DRDO-GTMAP, and CSIR. Her research has led to technology transfers, patents, and innovations that have reduced foreign dependency in sensor technology. She successfully designed and developed accelerometer devices for India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), making significant advancements in structural health monitoring, vibration sensing, energy harvesting, and anti-icing applications. Her work aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting indigenous technology development. 🚀🔧
Dr. Anjana Jain’s research revolves around piezoelectric materials, polymer composites, and aerospace polymers, with a strong emphasis on developing indigenous PVDF sensors. These technologies have been crucial for pressure sensing, structural health monitoring, ultrasonic sensing, vibro-acoustic sensing, and energy harvesting. Her innovations support defense, aviation, and industrial applications, with key collaborations across DRDO, GTRE, NPOL, IISc, IITs, and NAL. She has also worked on PVDF nano-composites for anti-icing applications, a critical advancement for aerospace and extreme weather conditions. Her research has revolutionized sensor technology in aviation, chemical industries, healthcare, and energy sectors. 🌍✈️🔬
🏅 Technology Transfer & Patent Achievements in piezoelectric sensor technology
🏅 Key Contributor to India’s first indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) accelerometer devices
🏅 Raman Fellow, deputed to University of Illinois, Chicago, USA, for research on PVDF nano-composites for anti-icing applications 🌍
🏅 Lead Investigator in multiple national aerospace & defense projects 🚀
🏅 Recognized Expert in piezoelectric materials and polymer-based sensor development 🔬
🏅 Recipient of numerous research grants & fellowships for advancing smart materials and aerospace innovations 💡
1️⃣ A. Jain, E. Dange, K.J. Jesmary, S.J. Kumar, R. Hamsa
Title: Effect of Mechanical Vibration and Impact Loading on the Performance of Poly (Vinylidene Fluoride) Composite
Journal: Mechanics of Composite Materials
Year: 2024
Cited by: 2
2️⃣ A. Jain, R. Hamsa, E. Dange, S. Murugan
Title: Processing and Fabrication of PVDF Sensors as a Dynamic Pressure Sensor (Book Chapter)
Source: Not available
Year: Not specified
Cited by: 0
3️⃣ A. Jain, R. Hamsa, E. Dange, S. Jayanth Kumar
Title: Strain Sensing Performance of Poly (Vinylidene Fluoride) – Onium Salt Composite Sensor to Mechanical Vibration and Impact Loading
Journal: Polymers and Polymer Composites
Year: 2022
Cited by: 0
4️⃣ A. Jain, S. Minajagi, E. Dange, S.U. Bhover, Y.T. Dharanendra
Title: Impact and Acoustic Emission Performance of Polyvinylidene Fluoride Sensor Embedded in Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composite Structure
Journal: Polymers and Polymer Composites
Year: 2021
Cited by: 11
5️⃣ T.S. Roopa, H.N. Narasimhamurthy, D.V.N. Harish, A. Jain, G. Angadi
Title: Properties of PVDF Films Stretched in Machine Direction
Journal: Polymers and Polymer Composites
Year: 2021
Cited by: 18
Dr. Anjana Jain’s innovative research in aerospace polymers, smart composites, and sensor technology has had a transformative impact on national defense, aviation, and industrial sectors. Her pioneering work has not only enhanced India’s technological self-reliance but also led to critical advancements in sensor systems, accelerometers, and composite materials. With an exceptional track record of research excellence, leadership, and real-world applications, Dr. Jain is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. 🏅🚀


Education:
Professional Experience:
S. Vishnu Vardhan is a distinguished Civil Engineer and Assistant Professor at Agni College of Technology, recognized for his exceptional contributions to research, innovation, and quality control in civil engineering. His outstanding work in construction materials, structural analysis, and sustainable engineering solutions makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a unique blend of academic excellence and industry expertise, he has successfully advanced research in quality control, infrastructure projects, and cutting-edge construction technologies.


S. Vishnu Vardhan has actively engaged in teaching, research, and industry collaborations to enhance his expertise in civil engineering. As an Assistant Professor, he has guided students in subjects such as Structural Analysis, Soil Mechanics, Surveying, and Estimation. His contributions extend to being a departmental coordinator in various roles, including placement, alumni, and examinations. He has organized and attended conferences, workshops, and faculty development programs to stay updated with the latest trends in construction and design. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his Best Faculty Awards and completion of NPTEL Research Methodology Course with an Elite+Silver grade. 🎖️🏗️
S. Vishnu Vardhan’s research interests center on Quality Control & Assurance in Construction, Sustainable Building Materials, and Innovative Structural Engineering Techniques. His work explores ultrasonic concrete mixing technology, self-healing concrete, and prefabricated hollow brick panels for roofing. He has presented papers on wastewater treatment using anaerobic digesters and evacuation patterns in high-rise buildings. His patent on Ultrasonic Concrete Mixer showcases his commitment to enhancing construction efficiency. With a strong focus on sustainability and structural innovations, he contributes to the advancement of smart and eco-friendly construction methodologies. 🏗️🌱
Dr. Abhik Sur is an esteemed mathematician specializing in thermoelasticity and solid mechanics. He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Calcutta in 2016 and is currently an Associate Professor at Sister Nivedita University, Kolkata. With a strong research background in heat and mass transfer, composite structures, and anisotropic materials, Dr. Sur has made significant contributions to mathematical modeling and computational mechanics. His expertise extends to programming languages such as MATLAB and FORTRAN, enhancing his analytical capabilities. Passionate about research and academia, he has published extensively and actively participates in professional development programs. 



Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics – University of Calcutta (2016)
M.Sc. in Applied Mathematics – University of Calcutta (2010) (Rank: 1st Class 3rd)
B.Sc. in Mathematics (Hons.) – Bidhannagar Govt. College, University of Calcutta (2008) (Rank: 1st)
Diploma in Vocal Classical Music – Prachin Kala Kendra, Chandigarh University (2005)
Teaching Experience:
Associate Professor & Head, Dept. of Mathematics, Sister Nivedita University (Aug 2024 – Present)
Assistant Professor (Grade III), Sister Nivedita University (Apr 2022 – Jul 2024)
Assistant Professor, Sister Nivedita University (Aug 2019 – Apr 2022)
Assistant Professor, Techno Main Salt Lake (Jul 2011 – Aug 2019)
Assistant Professor, Vidyasagar College, University of Calcutta (Sep 2010 – Jul 2011)
Dr. Abhik Sur is a distinguished scholar and a deserving recipient of the Best Researcher Award for his outstanding contributions to the fields of thermoelasticity, solid mechanics, and applied mathematics. His extensive research has significantly advanced the understanding of heat and mass transfer, fractional heat conduction, micropolar thermoelasticity, and composite materials. With a career spanning over a decade, Dr. Sur has made pioneering contributions that have had a profound impact on both theoretical and computational aspects of mathematical modeling in engineering and applied sciences.


Dr. Abhik Sur has actively engaged in academic and professional growth, consistently contributing to mathematics research and education. He has attended multiple national and international conferences, including presenting research at the prestigious 100th Indian Science Congress (2013). He specializes in computational techniques, leveraging software such as MATLAB, MATHEMATICA, and MAPLE for advanced modeling. Additionally, he has supervised research projects on generalized thermoelasticity and fractional heat conduction, enhancing the understanding of solid mechanics. With his ongoing D.Sc. research, he continues to advance his expertise, integrating mathematical theories with real-world engineering applications. 

Dr. Abhik Sur’s research centers on generalized thermoelasticity, heat and mass transfer, solid mechanics, and functionally graded materials. His expertise includes micropolar thermoelasticity, thermo-viscoelasticity, magneto-thermoelasticity, diffusion problems, composite structures, and fiber-reinforced materials. He employs computational methods for solving complex engineering problems, particularly in fractional heat conduction and crack propagation in anisotropic materials. His research significantly impacts structural analysis, material science, and applied mathematics, contributing to the development of efficient mathematical models for real-world mechanical and thermal applications. His work bridges theoretical mathematics and applied engineering, offering innovative solutions in the field of solid and fluid mechanics. 

Arati Mukherjee Award for securing the highest marks in B.Sc. Mathematics (Hons.) at Bidhannagar College.
Young Scientist Presentation at the 100th Indian Science Congress (2013) for research on thermal wave propagation.
Secured 1st Rank in B.Sc. Mathematics (Hons.), University of Calcutta.
Secured 1st Class 3rd Rank in M.Sc. Applied Mathematics, University of Calcutta.
Awarded First Division with Distinction in Vocal Classical Music Diploma (2005). 
Ph.D. in Civil Engineering – Georgia Institute of Technology (2010)
M.S. in Civil Engineering – KAIST, Korea (2004)
B.S. in Civil Engineering – KAIST, Korea (2002)
Professor & Head – Inha University (2024–Present)
Associate Professor – Inha University (2019–2024)
Assistant Professor – Inha University (2019)
Assistant Professor – Daegu University (2013–2019)
Section Manager – POSCO E&C (2011–2013)
Postdoctoral Researcher – Georgia Tech (2010–2011)
Graduate Research Assistant – Georgia Tech & KAIST
Dr. Jong-Han Lee, Ph.D., P.E., a distinguished Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Inha University, has been honored with the Best Researcher Award for his outstanding contributions to structural engineering, hazard risk analysis, and smart material applications. His extensive research and leadership in earthquake-resistant design, structural integrity assessment, and smart infrastructure development have significantly advanced the field, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious accolade.
Dr. Lee has significantly impacted structural engineering, specializing in hazard risk mitigation, earthquake resilience, and smart materials integration
. As a conference chairman, editor-in-chief, and research leader, he actively contributes to advancing construction safety and sustainability
. His leadership in Korea’s major civil engineering committees fosters global collaborations. With expertise in AI-driven diagnostics and digital twin technologies, his work bridges research and real-world applications 
. Committed to innovation, he continues to pioneer advanced construction materials, ensuring structural integrity and sustainability for future generations 
.
Best Paper Award – Korea Society of Civil Engineers
Outstanding Research Award – Korea Concrete Institute
Excellence in Engineering Innovation – Korea Institute for Structural Maintenance
Top 10 Influential Civil Engineers in Korea – 2023
Best Young Researcher Award – Korean Institute of Bridge and Structural Engineers
Outstanding Editor Award – KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering
Government Research Grant Awards – National Research Foundation of Korea
Flexural capacity of fiber reinforced concrete with a consideration of concrete strength and fiber content – Construction and Building Materials (2017) –
Cited by: 173 
Influence of concrete strength combined with fiber content in the residual flexural strengths of fiber reinforced concrete – Composite Structures (2017) –
Cited by: 148 
Investigation of extreme environmental conditions and design thermal gradients during construction for prestressed concrete bridge girders – Journal of Bridge Engineering (2012) –
Cited by: 105 

Application of probabilistic neural networks for prediction of concrete strength – Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering (2005) –
Cited by: 101 

Analysis of thermal environmental effects on precast, prestressed concrete bridge girders: temperature differentials and thermal deformations – Advances in Structural Engineering (2012) –
Cited by: 95 

Crack-closing performance of NiTi and NiTiNb fibers in cement mortar beams using shape memory effects – Composite Structures (2018) –
Cited by: 67 

Experimental study of the reinforcement effect of macro-type high strength polypropylene on the flexural capacity of concrete – Construction and Building Materials (2016) –
Cited by: 64 

A vision-based dynamic rotational angle measurement system for large civil structures – Sensors (2012) –
Cited by: 63 
