Life Sketch
Prof. Dr. S.K.Paknikar’s academic journey, from his PhD at Pune University to postdoctoral work abroad.
Prof. Shashikumar K. Paknikar was born in Solapur in 1935, Maharashtra. His academic pursuit began with a deep interest in the natural sciences, eventually culminating in a Ph.D. from the University of Pune under the guidance of esteemed mentors in organic chemistry. He later pursued postdoctoral research at the University of Arizona, where he delved into complex rearrangement mechanisms, and at the Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences, focusing on stereochemistry.
His fellowships with DAAD (Germany), UGC, and CSIR further solidified his international credentials. As Vice Chancellor of Goa University, he introduced numerous reforms in academic policies and prioritized research-oriented learning.
Currently, Prof. Paknikar continues his consulting and mentoring work through Nishant Aromas and other research partnerships. His approach blends classical chemistry with modern sustainability principles, making him a revered figure in both academic and industrial circles.
His belief in student-led innovation, ethical research, and interdisciplinary collaboration continues to define his legacy.
Prof. Shashikumar K. Paknikar is one of India’s foremost organic chemists. Over a career spanning nearly seven decades, he has contributed significantly to the field of natural product synthesis, green chemistry, and catalytic mechanisms using clay minerals. He began his scientific journey in Pune, pursued a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at the University of Pune, and continued his postdoctoral work at the University of Arizona and the Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences. His research philosophy has always been rooted in the idea of nature-inspired solutions to complex chemical challenges, paving the way for eco-conscious scientific advancements. As an educator and Vice-Chancellor of Goa University, Prof. Paknikar has mentored numerous students and researchers, instilling in them the values of rigorous experimentation and scientific integrity.
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