IIT ISM Dhanbad shine: Three faculty members awarded PM ECRG for innovative research; recognition emphasises the department's strong research capabilities
In a remarkable achievement, the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad has announced that three of its distinguished faculty members have been awarded the prestigious Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant (PM ECRG). This recognition highlights the strong research capabilities of the department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology.
About the Award
The Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant is a highly competitive national-level grant designed to support young researchers in undertaking innovative and impactful research across diverse scientific disciplines. The award aims to encourage promising researchers at the early stages of their academic careers, allowing them to explore groundbreaking ideas and contribute significantly to their fields.
Recognized Faculty Members
The recipients of the PM ECRG from IIT ISM Dhanbad are:
- Ananya Banik
- Jadab Majhi
- Sunil Pulletikurti
Ananya Banik
Ananya Banik’s research focuses on solid-state chemistry, particularly in the field of energy conversion and storage materials. Her work includes significant contributions to the development of solid-state batteries and ionic conductors, which are crucial for advancements in energy storage technologies.
Jadab Majhi
Jadab Majhi is engaged in synthetic organic chemistry, with a keen interest in photoredox catalysis and biocatalysis. His innovative research aims to develop new methods for organic synthesis that are more efficient and environmentally friendly, contributing to the sustainability of chemical processes.
Sunil Pulletikurti
Sunil Pulletikurti’s research revolves around phospholipids and drug delivery systems, as well as studies related to the chemical origins of life. His work is pivotal in understanding how life may have originated on Earth and how we can develop effective drug delivery mechanisms for medical applications.
Department’s Research Capabilities
The recognition of these faculty members underscores the strong research capabilities of the Chemistry and Chemical Biology department at IIT ISM Dhanbad. According to Sumanta Kumar Padhi, the head of the department, this achievement reflects the commitment of the institution to foster innovative research and support young scholars in their academic pursuits.
Impact of the PM ECRG
The PM ECRG not only provides financial support but also enhances the visibility of the recipients’ research on a national level. This grant empowers young researchers to pursue high-impact projects that can lead to significant advancements in their respective fields. The recognition can also open doors for future collaborations and funding opportunities, further strengthening the research ecosystem at IIT ISM Dhanbad.
Future Prospects
As the awarded faculty members embark on their research projects, the academic community and industry stakeholders are keenly watching the developments that will emerge from their innovative work. The potential applications of their research span various sectors, including energy, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science, promising to make a lasting impact on society.
Conclusion
The achievements of Ananya Banik, Jadab Majhi, and Sunil Pulletikurti serve as an inspiration for aspiring researchers and students at IIT ISM Dhanbad and beyond. Their dedication to advancing scientific knowledge exemplifies the spirit of innovation and excellence that the institute strives to uphold. As they continue their research under the PM ECRG, the future looks bright for these young scholars and the fields they represent.
Note: The Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant is a significant initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of researchers in India, fostering an environment of creativity and scientific inquiry.

