SUKANYA SATAPATHY | biopolymers | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. SUKANYA SATAPATHY | biopolymers | Best Researcher Award

DST-WOMEN SCIENTIST, at CSIR_INSTITUTE OF MINERALS AND MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY, India

Dr. Sukanya Satapathy is a dedicated materials scientist with a specialization in polymer blends, composites, and sustainable packaging materials. Currently a DST-Women Scientist at the CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT), Bhubaneswar, she holds a Ph.D. in Rubber Technology from IIT Kharagpur and an M.Sc. in Polymer Chemistry from Utkal University. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Satapathy’s work bridges academic research and industrial applications, particularly in the fields of biocomposites, polymer recycling, and green plasticizers. She has authored 21 peer-reviewed publications and presented her findings in numerous national and international conferences. Her expertise extends across advanced processing techniques and material characterization using state-of-the-art instrumentation. Known for her interdisciplinary collaborations, Dr. Satapathy is passionate about sustainable materials development, waste valorization, and training future scientists. Her recent research focuses on the development of hygienic, biodegradable packaging films from chitosan and natural additives.

Professional Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Satapathy’s academic journey began with a Master of Science in Chemistry (2001) from Utkal University, Odisha, where she specialized in Polymer Chemistry, graduating with first-class honors. Motivated by her passion for polymeric materials and sustainable innovation, she pursued a Doctorate in Rubber Technology at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, which she completed in 2009. Her doctoral research focused on the thermo-mechanical processing and advanced characterization of rubber-based composites, laying a strong foundation for her future contributions to polymer science. Her academic background combines rigorous scientific training with hands-on expertise in materials engineering, particularly in the blending and compounding of synthetic and natural polymers. This robust education equipped her with a deep understanding of the structure-property relationships in polymers, critical for designing eco-friendly and high-performance composite materials in both research and industrial contexts.

👨‍🏫 Experience

Dr. Sukanya Satapathy has accumulated rich experience in polymer science through various roles in academia and government-funded research institutions. Since November 2024, she has been serving as a DST-Women Scientist at CSIR-IMMT, Bhubaneswar. She has previously held the same position at the Polymers and Functional Materials (PFM) Department at CSIR-IICT, Hyderabad, across multiple terms (2013–2019 and 2023–2024), where she worked on government and industry-sponsored projects related to nanocomposites, recycled plastics, and biocomposites. From 2002 to 2004, she served as a Project Fellow/Faculty at the Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology, Bhubaneswar, where she taught graduate-level courses and supervised laboratory sessions. Her work has spanned areas including plastic waste utilization, high-impact nanocomposite development, and green polymer additives. Dr. Satapathy’s experience is enhanced by her ability to manage both theoretical research and practical application, particularly through collaborative industry-based projects and teaching engagements.

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. Satapathy’s research is centered around polymer composites, biocomposites, and sustainable packaging materials. Her work explores the use of natural fibers, fly ash, and biodegradable polymers such as chitosan to develop environmentally responsible alternatives to conventional plastics. She is an expert in thermo-mechanical processing, internal plasticization, and the utilization of green additives like epoxidized vegetable oils for improving mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties of polymer systems. Additionally, her recent efforts include developing hygienic packaging films using chitosan and cyclic carbonates, with a focus on replacing phthalate-based plasticizers with eco-friendly alternatives. Her deep engagement with plastics recycling and waste-to-wealth technologies supports circular economy initiatives. Her projects often involve multifunctional nanocomposites, incorporating graphene, clay, and cenospheres to enhance performance. Dr. Satapathy’s integrated approach combines processing innovation, material characterization, and environmental sustainability, aiming to revolutionize packaging, construction, and industrial plastic applications.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Sukanya Satapathy’s contributions to the field of polymer composites and materials technology have been recognized with notable honors. She was a recipient of the prestigious CSIR-IICT Technology Award (Team Award) in 2019, awarded by the CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad. This award was presented in recognition of innovative advancements in polymer nanocomposites and green plasticizer systems developed under collaborative R&D initiatives. Her published work has also gained academic acclaim, with one of her articles recognized as a Top Cited Article (2021–2022) in the Journal of Vinyl and Additive Technology. These accolades underscore her commitment to impactful, real-world materials research and highlight her role in the advancement of eco-sustainable technologies. Beyond formal awards, Dr. Satapathy has consistently earned appreciation for her interdisciplinary approach and leadership in projects involving natural fiber-reinforced plastics, hygienic packaging materials, and plastic waste valorization, strengthening her reputation as a rising expert in polymer engineering.

📚 Top Noted Publications

1. Thermo-Mechanical Processing of Chitosan Using Cyclic Carbonates as Green Plasticizers

Authors: Sukanya Satapathy, Aruna Palanisamy, Kavya Lekha Sunkara, Sunil Misra, Ramanuj Narayan

Journal: Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics

Year: 2025

Citations: 0 (as noted)

2. Mechanical and barrier properties of polyvinyl chloride plasticized with dioctyl phthalate, epoxidized soybean oil and epoxidized cardanol

Authors: [Not fully listed here, but likely includes Sukanya Satapathy based on context]

Journal: Journal of Vinyl and Additive Technology

Year: 2021 (Volume 27, pages 599–611)

Citations: This is noted as the “Top cited article 2021–2022”, but an exact number of citations isn’t provided in your input. You can find the exact count via Google Scholar or Web of Science.

3. Studies on epoxidised castor oil as co-plasticizer with epoxidised soyabean oil for PVC processing

Authors: G. Thirupathiah, Sukanya Satapathy, Aruna Palanisamy

Journal: Journal of Renewable Materials

Year: 2019 (Volume 8, pages 775–785)

Citations: Not listed in the input — can also be checked on Google Scholar or Scopus for the most recent data.

Conclusion

Based on her extensive research output, domain-specific innovation, impactful publications, and demonstrated leadership in DST-sponsored projects, Dr. Sukanya Satapathy is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Her work reflects a blend of academic rigor, industrial relevance, and societal impact, which are key parameters for such a prestigious recognition.

 

Ni Jiang | Bio materials | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ni Jiang | Bio materials | Best Researcher Award 

Associate professor, at Beijing University of Chemical Technology, China.

Ni Jiang is an Associate Professor at Beijing University of Chemical Technology, specializing in biodegradable polymers and nylon composites. With a strong academic background, she has contributed extensively to polymer research, focusing on structure regulation and high-performance applications. Her work spans hemostatic materials, antibacterial polymers, and tissue engineering scaffolds. She has received prestigious awards, including recognition as an excellent class teacher and thesis advisor. Ni Jiang has led multiple national and enterprise-funded research projects, reinforcing her expertise in material science. Her commitment to advancing sustainable polymers has earned her a distinguished reputation in academia and industry.

Professional Profile

Education 🎓

Ni Jiang’s academic journey began at Jinan University, where she completed her undergraduate studies (2001-2005). She pursued her Ph.D. at the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2005-2010), where she specialized in polymer science. Her doctoral research laid the foundation for her later contributions to biodegradable materials and high-performance polymers. With a strong grounding in chemistry and materials science, she has developed innovative solutions for environmental sustainability and medical applications. Her education has equipped her with a deep understanding of polymer structures, leading to breakthroughs in biodegradable polymer composites and their industrial applications.

Work Experience 💼

Ni Jiang has held various prestigious positions throughout her career. She began as an Assistant Researcher at the Institute of Chemistry, CAS (2010-2012), followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at RIKEN (2012-2015). She then joined Beijing University of Chemical Technology as a Lecturer (2016-2020) and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2021. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in advancing polymer research, mentoring students, and collaborating with industries to develop high-performance biodegradable materials. Her extensive experience across research institutions and universities underscores her dedication to scientific innovation and education.

Research Interests 🔬

Ni Jiang’s research focuses on biodegradable polymers and nylon composites, with an emphasis on structure regulation and high-performance applications. Her work includes developing polymers for hemostatic materials, antibacterial solutions, and tissue engineering scaffolds. She also explores ways to enhance polymer performance by reducing water absorption and increasing mechanical strength. By combining fundamental research with practical applications, she aims to improve sustainability in materials science and expand the use of biodegradable polymers in medical and environmental fields. Her innovative approaches continue to push the boundaries of polymer technology.

Awards and Honors 🏅

  • 2023: Beijing University Graduation Thesis Excellent Instructor
  • 2020-2021: Excellent Class Teacher
    Her dedication to academic excellence and student mentorship has been recognized through these prestigious awards. These honors highlight her commitment to guiding students in research and fostering innovation in polymer science.

Research Projects 🔍

  • 2023: Enterprise Cooperation Project (Host)
  • 2021: Enterprise Cooperation Project (Host)
  • 2020: General Program of National Natural Science Foundation of China (Host)
  • 2018: General Program of National Natural Science Foundation of Beijing (Host)
  • 2016: Foundation for University Key Teacher by the Ministry of Education of China (Host)
  • 2011: National Natural Science Foundation of China Youth Fund (Host)
    Her successful leadership in these projects has contributed significantly to advancements in biodegradable polymer research and industrial applications.

Top Noted Publications 📚

  • “Reactive Toughening of Poly(Glycolic Acid)/Poly(ε‐Caprolactone) Blends Using Environmentally Friendly and Cost‐Effective Bio‐Based Chain Extenders”
    Authors: Wu, H.; Duan, M.Z.; Ning, Z.B.; Gan, H.Y.; Jiang, N.
    Published in: Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 2025
    This study explores the enhancement of poly(glycolic acid) (PGA) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) blends’ toughness through reactive compatibilization using bio-based chain extenders. The approach aims to improve the mechanical properties and hydrolytic stability of the blends while maintaining environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

  • “Preparation of Thiolated Poly(Lactic Acid) Microspheres by Amine Ester Reaction to Simulate Three-Dimensional Inkjet Printing (3DP) Biocompatible Scaffolds”
    Authors: Ma, H.T.; Wang, Y.L.; Qu, G.H.; Guo, X.M.; Jiang, N.; Zhao, L.F.
    Published in: Chemical Engineering Journal, 2024
    This research presents a method for fabricating thiolated poly(lactic acid) (PLA) microspheres through an amine-ester reaction between cysteine and PLA in an aqueous environment. The resulting microspheres are designed to mimic the properties required for three-dimensional inkjet printing of biocompatible scaffolds, offering potential applications in tissue engineering.

  • “Rare Lamellar Assembly Mechanism on Special Spherulites of Poly(ε-Caprolactone)-b-Polyamide 6-b-Poly(ε-Caprolactone)”
    Authors: Dou, Y.Y.; Wu, H.; Zhang, L.; Ning, Z.B.; Jiang, N.; Gan, Z.H.
    Published in: Macromolecules, 2023
    This study investigates the formation conditions, internal factors, and lamellar orientation of unique spherulites in poly(ε-caprolactone)-b-polyamide 6-b-poly(ε-caprolactone) triblock copolymers. The research provides insights into the lamellar assembly mechanisms that lead to the development of these special spherulitic structures.

  • “Facile Method for the Synthesis of PCL-b-PA6-b-PCL Using Amino-Terminated PA6 as a Macroinitiator and Its Characterization”
    Authors: Dou, Y.Y.; Tian, N.; Ning, Z.B.; Jiang, N.; Gan, Z.H.
    Published in: Macromolecules, 2022
    This paper describes a straightforward synthesis method for creating poly(ε-caprolactone)-b-polyamide 6-b-poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL-b-PA6-b-PCL) triblock copolymers. By employing amino-terminated PA6 as a macroinitiator, the study achieves well-defined copolymers and provides a comprehensive characterization of their properties.

  • “Ultra-Toughened Poly(Glycolic Acid)-Based Blends with Controllable Hydrolysis Behavior Fabricated via Reactive Compatibilization”
    Authors: Wu, H.; Wang, C.Y.; Ning, Z.B.; Jiang, N.; Gan, Z.H.
    Published in: European Polymer Journal, 2022
    This research focuses on developing ultra-toughened poly(glycolic acid) (PGA)-based blends with adjustable hydrolysis rates. Through reactive compatibilization, the study enhances the miscibility and mechanical properties of PGA when blended with poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), resulting in materials with tailored degradation profiles suitable for biomedical applications.

Conclusion

Ni Jiang is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given the depth of research, impactful publications, and contributions to polymer science. Enhancing international collaborations and increasing research awards could further solidify her candidacy.