2026
Anand Solomon K
I am Anand Solomon K, a PhD research scholar specializing in decentralized nitrogen fixation using non-thermal plasma technologies, working under the guidance of Prof. Lakshminarayana Rao.
I completed my B.Tech (Honours) from APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University. I then joined the M.Tech program in Sustainable Technologies at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, which was subsequently converted into a PhD based on my research work.
My research focuses on developing decentralized and energy-efficient nitrogen fertilizer production systems using non-thermal plasma for agricultural applications. I am particularly motivated by the need to reduce the environmental and energy impacts of conventional nitrogen fertilizer production, while enabling localized fertilizer generation that can benefit small and marginal farmers. Through my work, I aim to contribute to more sustainable, low-carbon, and accessible agricultural practices.
Purva Sharma
I am Purva Sharma, a PhD scholar at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, working under the supervision of Prof. Lakshminarayana Rao and co-supervision of Prof. Sambuddha Misra. I hold a Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences from the Central University of Himachal Pradesh. My research focuses on investigating the sources, distribution, and underlying causes of uranium contamination in groundwater, aiming to contribute to a better understanding of groundwater quality.I enjoy trekking, reading books, and exploring philosophical ideas.
2025
Sreshtha Satish Jadhav
I am a dedicated PhD researcher at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, working under the guidance of Prof. Lakshminarayana Rao.
I have begun my PhD journey this year through the Direct PhD program after completing my B.Tech.
I did my B.Tech in Biotechnology from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela, where my research focused on wastewater treatment, biochar-based materials, and circular economy approaches.
After joining IISc, I have worked on monitoring and analysis of water quality parameters and sustainable agricultural projects.
I am currently pursuing my coursework and strengthening my technical foundation before initiating my doctoral research.
Through my work, I aim to create a positive environmental impact and contribute to addressing pressing global challenges.
2024
Vishnudatha V
(Jointly with Prof. Muddu Sekhar)
I am Vishnudatha V, a PhD research scholar specializing in wastewater treatment and its optimization. I am guided by Prof. L. N. Rao and co-guided by Prof. Sekhar Muddu. I completed my M.Tech in Environmental Engineering from IIT Hyderabad and my B.Tech in Civil Engineering from APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University, Kerala. My research focuses on energy optimization in wastewater treatment plants, aiming to develop sustainable and efficient solutions. Beyond academics, I enjoy photography, drawing, and gardening.
Rohan H S
I am Rohan H S, a dedicated PhD researcher at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, specializing in the application of advanced technologies to address groundwater contamination, sustainable water management, and environmental engineering challenges. I hold a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from Malnad College of Engineering, Hassan, where I developed a solid foundation in environmental systems. I further pursued an M.Tech in Environmental Engineering at the National Institute of Technology Karnataka, focusing on advanced wastewater treatment, particularly the removal of selected emerging contaminants. My PhD research explores the intricate interactions between water quality, agricultural practices, and hydrological systems, blending practical experimentation with advanced modelling techniques to better understand contaminant transport. I leverage my skills in environmental modelling, data analytics, and water quality management to develop innovativesolutions to the critical challenges of water scarcity and contamination.
2023
Akshay Ranjith
(Jointly with Prof. V V Srinivas)
PhD Scholar
I'm Akshay Ranjith, a doctoral researcher at the Indian Institute of Science, specializing in the intersection of fluid mechanics and sustainability within Civil Engineering. With an M.Tech in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, I worked on my thesis at IISc with my outstanding professors Prof. V. V. Srinivas and Prof. L. N. Rao to generate impactful research on urban pipe networks. My journey started with a B.Tech (Honours) in Civil engineering from College of Engineering, Trivandrum. I work on the fundamentals of fluid mechanics with an application to pipe networks. I aim to innovate through skills in optimization, programming, and practical experimentation. My diverse internships and projects reflect my commitment to pioneering solutions for a resilient future. Beyond academics, I explore photography, sports, and social initiatives.
2020
Prince K
(Jointly with Prof. Sivakumar Babu)
I am Prince Kumar, a PhD researcher at IISc Bangalore in the Centre for Sustainable Technologies Department. I have completed my B. Tech in Civil Engineering from NIT Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. After gaining a B. Tech, I pursued an M. Tech degree in civil engineering with a specialisation in geotechnical engineering from IISc Bangalore, Karnataka. My PhD research focuses on quantifying, recovering, and measuring the emission of methane generated from different biodegradable fractions of municipal solid waste
Chinmaya Ranjan Das
(Jointly with Prof. Pramod Kumar)
I am Chinmaya Ranjan Das. I have completed my B.Tech degree in Mechanical Engineering from ABIT Cuttack, Odisha. Post B.Tech, I pursued M.Tech degree in Thermal Engineering from NIT Durgapur, West Bengal. At IISc Bangalore, my doctoral research focuses on plasma-assisted methane reformation and its application in combustion.