State scientist gets global distinction

Tribune News Service

Shimla, December 1

A young scientist from the state, Dr Vijay Kumar Thakur, has earned the rare distinction of being ranked as one of the most highly cited researchers from across the world.

Professor in new products from biomass at the Scotland’s Rural College SRUC (UK), Dr Thakur was named in the Highly Cited Researchers’list-2020 by Clarivate. He is among 6,167 researchers from 60 countries and regions, who have been recognised this year. The list of scientists in 21 fields ranging from agricultural science to space science, also includes 26 Nobel laureates.

The annual list identifies scientists, who have demonstrated significant influence in their chosen field through publication of multiple highly cited papers during the last decade.

Vijay’s research activities span the disciplines of biorefining, biomaterials, chemistry, composites, manufacturing, nanotechnology and polymers, as well as all aspects of advanced and sustainable materials.

His most recent research work is focused on the advancement of new materials from sustainable sources using green chemistry and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies, aligning with the strategic aim of SRUC to develop high-value products from underutilised biorenewable feedstocks.

Vijay’s most cited paper is ‘Recent Progress on Ferroelectric Polymer-Based Nanocomposites for High Energy Density Capacitors: Synthesis, Dielectric Properties and Future Aspects, focussing on the use of clean and environment-friendly techniques for the engineering of different fluoropolymers and nanocomposites. “It’s a pleasure and honour to be among the world’s most influential researchers in the Highly Cited Reserchers’ list,” said Dr Vijay.