Prof. Dr. Shashikumar K. Paknikar is a distinguished figure in the world of natural sciences, known especially for his groundbreaking work in Organic Chemistry. With a rich academic and research career spanning over six decades, he has earned international acclaim for his contributions to natural product synthesis, and eco-conscious reaction design.

He holds postdoctoral research fellowships from two globally reputed institutions — the University of Arizona, Tucson (USA) and the Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences, Prague. He is also a recipient of prestigious research fellowships including the DAAD Fellowship (Germany) and UGC National Fellowship (India), underscoring his global academic recognition.

Even today, at the age of 90, Prof. Paknikar remains an active force in chemical research and industrial innovation. He continues to collaborate with leading national and international industries as a consultant, applying his deep knowledge of organic mechanisms and clay catalysis to solve real-world industrial challenges in fragrance, pharmaceutical, and green chemistry sectors.

His academic journey began in India with early years of research at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, after which he moved to Goa in 1970, setting roots in the scenic capital of Panaji. Over the next four decades, he played a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape of Goa, especially through his contributions to Goa University, where he served in key positions such as:

Vice Chancellor of Goa University

Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences

Head of the Department of Chemistry

Under his leadership, the university expanded its research capabilities and fostered a generation of science scholars and chemistry professionals.

Despite retiring from formal academic positions in 1995, Prof. Paknikar never stepped away from his passion. Instead, he chose to stay intellectually active—continuing research, guiding students, writing papers, and participating in international conferences. His enduring curiosity and commitment to chemistry serve as an inspiration to students and scientists alike.

His contributions have been recognized by the scientific community both in India and abroad. Notably, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, Barry Sharpless, acknowledged Prof. Paknikar’s contributions during a visit to Goa University, describing him as a chemist of exceptional mechanistic insight and academic rigor.