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Professors Of Practice
Professors of Practice bring invaluable real-world experience to academia, enriching classroom learning with practical insights and applications. Their industry expertise prepares students for professional success by bridging the gap between theory and practice. Beyond teaching, they conduct research that addresses pressing industry challenges, fostering innovation and societal impact. By collaborating closely with industry partners, they facilitate knowledge exchange and technology transfer, driving economic growth and social progress. Professors of Practice serve as vital connectors between academia and industry, expanding university-industry partnerships for mutual benefit. Their dual role as scholars and practitioners ensures that research remains relevant and impactful, addressing the needs of both academia and society.
Mr. Mohandoss
Computing Technologies
mohan.doss@compassmet.com
Mr. Mohandoss
Dr. Mohandoss has more than 30 years of corporate experience, the last 12 of which were at Fidelity Investments in both India and the USA, Mohan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new endeavor. At Fidelity, he held numerous leadership positions across IT delivery, vendor management, site management, and administrative functions. Most recently, he led the multi-country internal consulting and delivery group called Vitality, where he and his team built automation and cognitive computing practices from the ground up. His ability to develop and lead high-impact teams in cutting-edge technological fields is a testament to his leadership and innovative thinking.
Before his tenure at Fidelity, Mohan spent over 20 years in various roles at Sun Microsystems, where he was responsible for sales, marketing, product, and services management across several Asian markets. His extensive experience spans multiple industry segments, including manufacturing, energy, government, retail, healthcare, media, education, and research. Mohan’s comprehensive understanding of the application of technology to business challenges, combined with his P&L responsibilities, underscores his capability to drive growth and efficiency in diverse organizational settings.
Mohan's academic background includes a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Business Administration. He is a sought-after speaker at management institutes and industry conferences, where he delivers sessions on CRM, knowledge management, general management, marketing, and finance. His active involvement with the Nasscom GCC Council and the Nasscom Sector Skills Group further highlights his commitment to industry development and thought leadership. Through his new consulting firm, Mohan aims to leverage his extensive experience and passion for technology and business to help organizations navigate their transformation journeys while staying true to their core values.
Dr. Rajkumar Swaminathan
Mechanical Engineering
drsrk68@gmail.com
Dr. Rajkumar Swaminathan
Dr. S. Rajkumar is a seasoned professional with an extensive background in mechanical and production engineering, industrial engineering, and marketing. He holds a B.E. in Mechanical and Production Engineering from Annamalai University, an M.Tech in Industrial Engineering from the College of Engineering Trivandrum, an MBA in Marketing from IGNOU, New Delhi, and a Ph.D. from the College of Engineering, Guindy. Currently, he serves as President of Rane Engine Valve Ltd., where he is responsible for overseeing the performance of all five plants and the company's overall operations.
Dr. Rajkumar's career trajectory is marked by significant leadership roles in various esteemed organizations. From July 2012 to June 2016, he worked as the Senior General Manager of Operations at Nippon Seiki, where he was instrumental in setting up and running the plant, demonstrating his capability in operational management and strategic execution. Prior to this, he was with Apollo Tyres Ltd. from April 2010 to July 2012, managing operations including production, production planning and control (PPC), industrial engineering, the implementation of best manufacturing practices, and information technology.
His tenure at Lucas TVS from May 1996 to March 2010 stands out for his contributions to the Manufacturing Systems Engineering Department. During this period, Dr. Rajkumar implemented innovative manufacturing concepts such as Cellular Manufacturing, Just-In-Time (JIT), and the Kanban System. He also spearheaded the implementation of Total Quality Management (TQM) practices and leveraged information technology to enhance manufacturing processes. His role included heading Manufacturing Systems Engineering, TQM, and Production Control & Logistics functions, as well as setting up greenfield sites, showcasing his expertise in project management and process improvement.
Dr. Rajkumar’s early career included a pivotal role as Assistant Manager of Corporate Projects at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.. Here, he was involved in project analysis, planning, and the implementation of facilities and layouts, including work on the Ford CKD project. His professional excellence is further highlighted by numerous accolades. Dr. Rajkumar is a life member of several prestigious institutions, including the Indian Institution of Industrial Engineering, Indian Institution of Production Engineers, and the Administrative Staff College of India, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Dr. S Rajkumar is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt Professional and a Lead Auditor of IMS (TS16949, ISO9000:2008, ISO14001, ISO18001)
- Email:drsrk68@gmail.com
Prof. Tanuja Manoj Nesari
IIISM
tnesari@hotmail.com
Prof. Tanuja Manoj Nesari
Prof. Dr. Tanuja Nesari, BAMS, MD (Ayu), PhD (Ayu) Director, All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA). She is the Chair of the Health Sector Sub-Skill Council for AYUSH and a member of the Governing Council of IMS, BHU. She serves as a member Task Force WHO, the establishment of the Global Centre for Traditional Medicine (GCTM) at Jamnagar; Convener of the Working Group on formulation of Integrative Health System for NITI Aayog, Govt. of India & Member, Board of Governors and Advisory Council of National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) etc. Dr. Nesari is also a member of the General Assembly of ICCR and serves on the academic board of various universities like ITRA, Jamnagar & National Academic and Research Bodies.
She serves as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board of CCRAS and domain expert of the Technical Screening Committee (TSC) of NMPB. Her influential leadership has brought more than 20 MOUs into the credit of AIIA. She played a key role in converting AIIA Hospital, New Delhi into COVID Healthcare Centre, where the patients are being provided holistic Ayurveda treatment. Recipient of “Ayurveda Ratna” award from Indian Traditional Sciences – All Party Parliamentary Groups (ITS – APPG), United Kingdom.
- Email:tnesari@hotmail.com
Dr. G. Balu
Aerospace Engineering
balug@srmist.edu.in
Dr. G. Balu
Dr. G. Balu has made substantial contributions to the field of missile aerodynamics and aerospace engineering. Serving as Group Director (Design) and Associate Director (Technology) at the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) in Hyderabad, he held the prestigious designation of Scientist H / Outstanding Scientist before retiring. With an impressive academic background that includes a B.Tech from MIT, Chennai, an M.Tech from IIT Chennai, and a Ph.D. from IIT Kanpur, Dr. Balu has dedicated 36 years to advancing India's missile technology. His role as a Dr. Raja Rammana DRDO Distinguished Fellow and Chairman of the Aerodynamics Panel of AR&DB within DRDO highlights his leadership and expertise in the field.
Dr. Balu's contributions to missile technology are extensive and varied. He developed application software for predicting aerodynamic characteristics of missile configurations, crucial for ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of missile systems. His work on the AGNI missile's aerodynamic configuration design and the development of aero-thermal design packages for re-entry vehicle thermal protection systems (TPS) showcases his ability to address complex engineering challenges. Additionally, he contributed to the aerodynamic design and prediction of hypersonic thermal environments during re-entry, enhancing the reliability and performance of re-entry vehicles.
His innovative approaches in aerodynamic research include the prediction of surface pressure at various angles of attack for bodies of revolution and the aerodynamic design and performance analysis of isolators for scramjet engines under dual-mode exit conditions. Dr. Balu developed methodologies for conjugate heat transfer analysis on missile airframes, investigated the effects of nose bluntness and spikes on aerodynamic characteristics, and conducted wind tunnel testing of isolated and installed air intake of air-breathing missile configurations. His design, testing, and analysis of various wind tunnel models have been critical in validating aerodynamic performance and enhancing missile design.
Beyond his technical achievements, Dr. Balu played a crucial role in establishing advanced testing facilities at DRDL, including a virtual flight test facility to qualify missile actuators with control surfaces under simulated flight conditions, and subsonic and 0.6 m Trisonic Wind Tunnel facilities. He also developed experimental techniques for determining hydrodynamic coefficients simulating the flight environment of underwater platforms, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application. His work on the aerodynamic design of wing kits for extending the range of dump bombs dropped from supersonic fighter jets further exemplifies his comprehensive expertise in aerospace engineering. Dr. Balu's contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, underscoring his significant impact on India's aerospace and defense capabilities. He is a fellow member of several professional societies & published many technical papers in reputed journals and conferences
- Email:balug@srmist.edu.in
Dr. Anbu Rathinavel
Directorate of Entrepreneurship and Innovation
anburathin@gmail.com
Dr. Anbu Rathinavel
Dr. Anbu Rathinavel is a renowned person in the fields of design thinking, leadership development, and organizational transformation. As the Chief Design Officer at Intellect Design Arena, he has been instrumental in integrating Eastern philosophies of mindfulness with Western analytical approaches to create a unique problem-solving methodology. His focus on Design Thinking aims to address challenges across various domains, leveraging a balanced perspective that incorporates both the mind and the brain. This innovative approach has made significant impacts in corporate and educational settings, promoting a holistic view of problem-solving that transcends traditional boundaries.
One of Dr. Rathinavel’s notable contributions is the development of the Strength Philosophy coaching model, which integrates his extensive experience in project delivery for the U.S. Department of Defense and academic leadership. This model is designed to empower corporate leaders, managers, and educators by fostering a lasting impact and cultivating cohesive teams committed to excellence. As a co-founder of the School of Design Thinking, he has championed several initiatives aimed at transforming the educational landscape, encouraging students and faculty to redefine their self-image and embrace creative thinking. The copyrighted Design The Thinking™ approach, a hallmark of his leadership, has become a flagship program widely recognized for its effectiveness.
Dr. Rathinavel’s passion for human development is further evidenced by his work in Artificial Intelligence and his role as Chief Mentor at the Life Design Lab. Here, he collaborates with young and corporate adults to explore the emotional dynamics of relationships, utilizing frameworks like the Emotions Ladder and Collision Management. His efforts extend to appreciating cultural values and fostering emotional intelligence, crucial elements for personal and professional growth. Additionally, he oversees training for the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in government procurement, underscoring his commitment to innovative solutions in public administration.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Rathinavel is an influential speaker and mentor, sharing his expertise at various prestigious forums including NASSCOM, CLO Summit, and DT Conclave. His affiliations with prominent institutions like the Indian School of Business, SRM University, and the ICT Academy highlight his dedication to education and corporate advisory roles. With an academic foundation rooted in mechanical engineering and advanced degrees in manufacturing and artificial intelligence from Ohio University, Dr. Rathinavel's career is a testament to his multidisciplinary expertise and his unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and transformation.
- Email:anburathin@gmail.com
Dr. Ashish Desai
Professor of Practice
ashishdesai@hotmail.com
Dr. Ashish Desai
Dr. Ashish Desai has over 25 years of experience in the fields of technology, digital payments, and credit and microfinance. His career highlights a robust blend of technical expertise and strategic leadership, focusing on running P&L operations and creating greenfield, technology-driven businesses in mobile financial services. These ventures span across remittances, payments, and microlending, primarily targeting markets in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Dr. Desai’s work in these regions underscores his capability to navigate complex financial ecosystems and drive innovation in emerging markets.
In his role as the Director of Monitoring and Evaluation at the Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO), NITI Aayog, Dr. Desai oversaw the monitoring and evaluation of all trade, finance, and commerce ministries and departments. This position allowed him to leverage his expertise in policy analysis and program evaluation, ensuring that government initiatives in these sectors were effectively implemented and met their strategic objectives. His contributions in this role were critical in enhancing the efficiency and impact of governmental policies related to trade and finance.
Dr. Desai's corporate experience is extensive and diverse, including significant positions at the Aditya Birla Group, First Rand Bank, Jumo, and Motorola. Perhaps most notably, he founded and evangelized the Mobiquity mobile money platform for Mahindra Comviva (formerly Bharti Telesoft). This platform has been a game-changer in the digital payments landscape, with deployments in over 45 countries and more than 100 million registered users. Mobiquity's success demonstrates Dr. Desai’s vision and ability to implement large-scale technological solutions that address critical financial needs.
Academically, Dr. Desai holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI), Mumbai, an MBA from Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai, and a PhD in Economics from the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode. His research interests lie in technology and digital public infrastructure, fields in which he continues to contribute through both practical implementations and scholarly work. Desai's blend of academic knowledge and practical experience positions him as a leading authority in the integration of technology and finance, driving forward the development of digital public infrastructure.
- Email:ashishdesai@hotmail.com
Mr. Sarin Sundar J K
Physics and Nanotechnology
sarinjk@gmail.com
Mr. Sarin Sundar J K
Shri. Sarin Sundar J K, a distinguished expert in Materials Engineering, has an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades. His proficiency in Advanced Industrial and Institutional R&D and Management has been honed through his diverse experiences in multinational environments across India, Europe, and the USA. He has served in notable roles such as a Staff Process Engineer at renowned institutions like Applied Materials, and as a Scientist at ARCI and MTAB. Since January 2024, he has assumed the role of Professor of Practice.
His expertise encompasses a broad spectrum, including R&D Management in materials engineering projects, Unit Process and High Volume Equipment technology development, Technology Programs and Risk Management, and Statistical DoE. He has extensive experience in Semiconductor deposition products like PVD, ALD CVD, Thin-film and c-Si Solar manufacturing technologies, processes and equipment for Lithium Metal Anodes, and Solid State Batteries. He has played a pivotal role in New Product Development, overseeing the entire process from conception and feasibility (C&F) to High-Value Manufacturing (HVM) in the aforementioned industries.
His substantial contributions to the field are evident in his US patent applications and publications. He has successfully pioneered numerous laser applications for mission-critical programs and industries and has collaborated with various Fraunhofer labs and leading universities and national labs across California and Germany throughout his career. His experience also extends to High power Laser Materials Processing (including laser welding, drilling, cutting and surface engineering) for aerospace and automotive industries, and a comprehensive range of Materials characterization and defect metrology in materials engineering, thin-films, semiconductors, batteries, and solar energy.
He is currently collaborating with the research faculty of the department to bring the latest knowledge on Quantum technologies, Semiconductor technologies and Industry-Academia Collaborations in these fields.
- Email:sarinjk@gmail.com
Dr. Sudhir Dixit
Networking and Communications
sudhir.dixit@ieee.org
Dr. Sudhir Dixit
Dr. Sudhir Dixit is a prominent figure in the field of wireless communications and technology innovation, holding key positions across various esteemed institutions globally. As a Co-Founder, Senior Fellow, and Evangelist at the Basic Internet Foundation in Oslo, Norway, he plays a vital role in advocating for accessible internet for all, heading its US operations. His academic engagements are equally notable, with his involvement in the Academy of Finland Flagship Programme, 6Genesis, which is spearheaded by the Centre for Wireless Communications at the University of Oulu. Additionally, he serves as a VAJRA Adjunct Professor at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, reflecting his commitment to fostering educational and technological advancements.
Dr. Dixit's entrepreneurial spirit is evident from his tenure as CEO and Co-Founder of Skydoot, Inc., from 2015 to 2017. His significant contributions to Hewlett-Packard Enterprise Services between 2009 and 2015, where he served as the Distinguished Chief Technologist and CTO of the Communications and Media Services for the Americas Region, as well as the Director of Hewlett-Packard Labs India, underscore his leadership in driving innovation within large technology firms. Prior to HP, he amassed extensive experience through various leadership roles at major corporations including BlackBerry, Nokia, NSN, and Verizon Communications, highlighting his vast expertise and influence in the telecommunications industry.
An active contributor to the academic and professional communities, Dr. Dixit has been a technical editor for the IEEE Communications Magazine and serves on the editorial board of Springer's Wireless Personal Communications Journal. His involvement with the IEEE Future Network Initiative as Co-Chair of the CTU Working Group and his role on the Industry Outreach Board (IOB) further illustrate his dedication to advancing wireless communication technologies. His work with the Wireless World Research Forum (WWRF) as a Board Member, Working Group Chair, and Vice Chair for America demonstrates his commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation within the global wireless research community.
Dr. Dixit's academic achievements are complemented by his prolific output as a scholar and inventor. He has published nine books, holds 21 U.S. patents, and has an extensive portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. His academic contributions include serving as an Adjunct Professor of Computer Science at the University of California, Davis, and as a Docent at the University of Oulu since 2010. Recognized as a Life Fellow of the IEEE and a Fellow of IET and IETE, Dr. Dixit holds a Ph.D. from the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, U.K., and an M.B.A. from the Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida, underscoring his deep academic and professional expertise in the field of wireless communications.
- Email:sudhir.dixit@ieee.org
Dr. C. Velan
Civil Engineering
City Head at CapitaLand Chennai,
velan62@yahoo.com
Dr. C. Velan
Dr. C. Velan is a distinguished executive with a robust career in the real estate and infrastructure sectors. Since May 2019, he has been the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and City Head at CapitaLand, where he oversees the strategic direction and operational management of the company's urban development projects. His leadership has been pivotal in advancing CapitaLand’s mission to create sustainable and integrated urban spaces. Dr. Velan's strategic vision and innovative approach have helped the company navigate complex market dynamics, ensuring the successful execution of large-scale projects that enhance urban living standards.
Before joining CapitaLand, Dr. Velan served as the CEO of TRIL Infopark Limited from August 2008 to April 2019. During his tenure, he was instrumental in transforming the company into a leading player in the commercial real estate market, overseeing the development and management of major IT parks and office spaces. His role involved significant stakeholder engagement, ensuring that projects met the needs of both clients and the broader community. Dr. Velan's efforts at TRIL Infopark earned him recognition for his ability to drive growth while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation in the real estate sector.
Earlier in his career, Dr. Velan held key positions in other prestigious organizations. As the City Head at Ascendas from April 2003 to July 2008, he managed the development of several high-profile projects, demonstrating his adeptness in urban planning and infrastructure development. Prior to Ascendas, he was the Head of Civil Engineering at CBRE from April 2002 to March 2003, where he applied his engineering expertise to oversee major construction projects. His professional journey began as a Senior Project Manager at Eicher from 1995 to 2000, where he honed his skills in project management and execution. With each role, Dr. Velan has built a legacy of excellence, leveraging his extensive experience to lead complex projects and drive innovation in the real estate industry.
- Email:velan62@yahoo.com
Mr. Ravi Kumar
Electronics & Communication Engineering
nayagamravikumar@gmail.com
Mr. Ravi Kumar
Mr. Ravi Kumar, a highly experienced technology professional, has over 30 years of expertise in VLSI design, embedded products, and FPGA development across multiple industries, including aerospace, automotive, telecom, and consumer sectors. With a Master's degree in Advanced Electronics from JNTU, Hyderabad, and a Bachelor’s in Electronics from the Madras Institute of Technology, he has led numerous projects, ranging from ASIC and FPGA design to board development and embedded software for various applications.
Throughout his career, Ravi has held leadership positions, such as Practice Head and General Manager, guiding large, multi-site teams in delivering complex product development projects. He has extensive experience in DO-254 process flow for aerospace, fault-tolerant designs, and end-to-end project management. His technical expertise spans across Xilinx, Altera, and Actel FPGA boards, Verilog-based design implementation, and lifecycle activities, from specifications and design reviews to cost and vendor management.
In his various roles, including at Astra Microwave Products and HCL Technologies, he has successfully managed and delivered critical defense, aerospace, and automotive projects. Notable accomplishments include leading the development of phased array radar for Indian defense, managing over 50 projects in aerospace ASIC and FPGA designs, and contributing to the certification of AS9100.
Ravi has also demonstrated strong program management skills, effectively handling risks, budgets, and customer satisfaction through continuous improvement strategies. His work in technology incubation and team building has further cemented his reputation as a strategic leader in R&D and new product development.
Mr. P. Saravanakumar
Manager - Instrumentation saravanakumar.ponniah@gmail.com
Mr. P. Saravanakumar
Saravanakumar Ponniah has over 27 Years of total experience in Design & Detailed engineering,
construction, pre-commissioning, commissioning, Procurement assistance, in the field of
Instrumentation and Control Systems for Refineries, Oil & Gas, Turbines, Compressors,
Generators and Paper Plant.
• Experienced in preparation of instrument specification, Datasheet, Technical Queries (TQ), Vendor
offer review, Technical Bid Evaluation, Purchase order preparation, Vendor drawing review and
approval of Control system (DCS), Shutdown system (ESD), Fire and Gas system (FGS) and various
field instruments.
• Experience with Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and Site Acceptance Test (SAT) of Distributed Control
System (DCS), Emergency Shutdown System (ESD), Fire & Gas system (FGS), Turbine
Control System (GE Mark VI and Mark VIe), Bently Nevada System, CCC Compressor Control
System, Integrated Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) of Various package units UCP and LCP with DCS.
• Conversant with Instrumentation in Packages like Gas Turbines, Compressors, Generators, Air
Compressor, Air Dryer, Nitrogen Package, Inergen system, Fire Water Pump, Addressable Fire and
Gas system, HVAC system and their interface to Plant Control system.
• Rich skills in Erection and Commissioning with full project life cycle.
• Participated in HAZOP review, SIL allocation workshop and experience in preparation of C&E matrices
for Fire & Gas System and ESD System.
• System interface finalization with Electrical system and other Package disciplines.
• Familiar with various National & International Standards/codes used in Instrumentation and Control
design, engineering, and construction. Also, familiar with ARAMCO and Petronas standards.
• Worked with major clients such as ADGAS, Saudi Aramco, Petronas, ADMA, ADNOC Onshore and
SHELL.
M.Loganathan
Ex ISRO Scientist/Engineer
ISRO Satellite Center
M.Loganathan
M. Loganathan, an Ex-ISRO Scientist/Engineer, has significantly contributed to Indian space missions, particularly at the ISRO Satellite Center. With a BE and ME from Madras University (1971, 1973), he played a vital role in the SITE project, leading systems engineering for India’s first satellite TV communication centers. As an ITU Fellow, he earned international commendation and later led innovative efforts such as the first satellite-based video conferencing from Gangtok and SLV launch pad surveillance. At ISRO Bangalore, he headed mission simulation and planning for INSAT and IRS, developed advanced multi-mission facilities, and contributed to disaster monitoring systems and the IRS-SRE2 spacecraft for future manned missions.
He initiated several studies on small satellite systems including propulsion, SAR-based formation flying, and flood monitoring constellations. As Project Architect for SRMSAT, he mentored over 60 students to launch a nano-satellite via PSLV C-18 in 2011. He guided STUDSAT-2 and other student satellite projects at institutions like NMIT, SRM, and Bharath University, including a small satellite Moon mission using advanced simulation tools. His efforts led to multiple proposals presented to ISRO chairmen, covering orbital control, deep space communication, and solar sail de-orbiting. Currently, he is guiding a 6U CubeSat mission to the Moon and a nano-satellite docking mission.
He has mentored numerous student projects across India and served on many ISRO technical committees. Loganathan has authored over 14 international papers on small satellites, fault diagnosis, video systems, and lunar missions, and mentored several papers published by his students in premier conferences like IEEE, AIAA, and IAF. A Life Member of major scientific societies, his expertise spans space systems, mission planning, DSP, and simulation, with numerous innovations in satellite telemetry, command systems, and spacecraft visualization tools.
Prof. Olga Safonkina
Mordovia State University, Russia
Prof. Olga Safonkina
Dr. Olga Safonkina is a distinguished academic affiliated with the Department of Foreign Languages at National Research Mordovia State University (MRSU) in Saransk, Russia. With a robust background in linguistics and pedagogy, she has significantly contributed to language education and international academic collaboration. Dr. Safonkina earned her Diploma in Linguistics in 2002 from Ogarev Mordovia State University. She further pursued a master's degree in "Society and Politics" in 2003 through a joint program between Central European University and Lancaster University. In 2009, she was awarded the academic degree of Candidate of Sciences. Since 2004, she has been teaching at the Faculty of Foreign Languages at MRSU and has served as the Vice-Dean of the same faculty. Additionally, she has coordinated Erasmus+ exchange programs since 2011.
Dr. Safonkina's research encompasses pedagogy, curriculum development, and language assessment. Her notable publications include:
· "Readability of Syntactic Constructions for Transparency and Reliability of Input Texts for Unified State Exams in English"
· "Using 'Peer Review' Method for Language Assessment"
· "Internationalization of Higher Education through Academic Mobility"
These works reflect her commitment to enhancing language education and assessment methodologies.
Dr. Safonkina has actively participated in international projects aimed at improving language education. She served as the local coordinator for Russian partner universities in the SMARTI project, which focuses on establishing English Medium Instruction (EMI) centers and promoting student-centered learning.
In September 2024, Dr. Safonkina played a pivotal role in the inauguration of the Russian Studies Centre at SRMIST in the Department of English and Foreign Languages at Chennai, India. As the Associate to the Vice-Rector for International Affairs at MRSU, she contributed to establishing this center, which aims to promote Russian language, literature, and culture among SRMIST students. The center offers Russian language courses and organizes cultural events, fostering academic and cultural exchange between the two institutions.
Through her academic and administrative endeavours, Dr. Olga Safonkina continues to influence language education and international collaboration, bridging cultural and educational gaps between Russia and other countries.
Dr. A. Aravind
Deputy General Manager Solara Active Pharma India Limited
Mr. Anirban Chowdhury
Co-founder Frugal Labs, Bangalore
Mr. Anirban Chowdhury
Anirban Chowdhury is a seasoned technology entrepreneur, consultant and tech coach with over 16 years of experience across IoT, Embedded Systems, Robotics, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Twin technologies. He has led the design and deployment of cutting-edge digital systems in industrial, smart infrastructure, and academic environments, with a focus on scalable innovation and practical implementation.
As a founder and consultant, Mr. Chowdhury has built and mentored multiple technology ventures, combining deep technical knowledge with entrepreneurial acumen. His work bridges industry and academia, helping institutions prepare students for next-generation technologies while advising on curriculum development, applied research, and incubation strategies.
A passionate advocate for real-world impact, he specializes in hands-on training, system-level thinking, and the integration of cyber-physical systems into meaningful digital solutions.
Networking and Communications
- Email:anirban.srmu@gmail.com
Mr. Rama Krishna Prasad Vemana
Vice President
Morgan Stanley
Mr. Rama Krishna Prasad Vemana
Mr. Rama Krishna Prasad Vemana is a seasoned technology and engineering leader with over 25 years of diverse industry experience spanning investment banking, enterprise systems, ERP, business process management (BPM), and power plant engineering. As a Professor of Practice at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, he combines technical depth with strategic vision and a strong commitment to mentoring future professionals.
Throughout his career, Mr. Prasad has led complex global technology programs and delivered impactful solutions across industries. At Morgan Stanley, he established Centers of Excellence in Central Settlements, Finance, and Sales & Trading. He has played a key role in building Offshore Development Centres for companies in the mortgage lending, ERP, BPM, and retail domains. His engineering leadership includes the development of metadata-driven frameworks, scalable document management platforms for fixed-income trading, and robust Straight Through Processing (STP) systems for end-to-end automation in investment banking.
He is also recognized for product strategy and innovation, having conceptualized tools such as Sales Pipeline applications, Balanced Scorecard-based business analytics, and Mortgage Loan Servicing systems. His strategic contributions include the e-Business roadmap for Israel Discount Bank and the CLS system for centralized forex settlements. Prasad has been instrumental in re-architecting legacy platforms into event-driven, multi-threaded systems that improve scalability and reduce total cost of ownership.
Prior to his IT career, Mr. Prasad spent a decade at BHEL, where he led the engineering of cogeneration and combined-cycle power plants totaling approximately 10,000 MW. His responsibilities ranged from thermodynamic design to plant layout, instrumentation, procurement, and vendor development supporting critical infrastructure across India, Malaysia, and the Gulf. In addition to his technical achievements, he has championed people development and organizational growth. He designed recruitment frameworks that enabled the hiring of over 500 professionals, fostered learning organizations through structured knowledge-sharing, and established architecture councils that drove engineering excellence.
His domain expertise spans investment banking (FRM Parts I & II, CFA Level II), ERP systems, BPM, retail e-commerce, and power utilities. He holds a B.E. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.E. in Production Engineering from Osmania University.
Mr. Vemana’s career reflects a rare integration of technical innovation, product leadership, and organizational transformation, making him a valuable bridge between academia and industry.
- Email:prasadv@srmist.edu.in
Dr. G. Sekaran
Former Cluster Chairman & Chief Scientist
Dr. G. Sekaran
Dr. G. Sekaran, is a Former Chief Scientist & Cluster Chairman of Environmental Technology Division, CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute, Chennai. He had joined Central Leather Research Institute (constituent body of CSIR) in 1979 after acquiring B. Sc. (Chemistry) degree in 1976 and M.Sc degree (Applied chemistry) in 1978. He was awarded Doctorate Degree in the field of Environmental Engineering in 1990 by University of Madras.
He has 40+ years of experience in the field of Environmental Science and Engineering. He was an honorary Professor of Anna University in the faculty of Leather Technology and Professor of ACSIR. He was superannuated from CSIR service in June, 2016.
Currently, he is associated with SRMIST as Professor of Practice at Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering and motivating young faculty members and students on the industrial research.
He is a world renowned International Environmental consultant to Pharmaceutical, Leather, Textile, Chemical, Slaughter house and Automobile industries and domestic sectors.
He focuses mainly on research domain confined to CATALYSIS applied to Oxidation of organics and inorganics in wastewater and in gaseous stream using carbon based heavy metal doped catalysts. Anaerobic treatment of wastewater, Development of Electron rich carbon based catalysts, Oxidation of Refractory organics using heavy metal doped mesoporous catalyst, Development of photocatalysts, Generation of electrical energy through biocatalysts etc. are the other areas of his interest.
Dr.G.Sekaran is the inventor of many technologies entitled "Chemo Autotrophic Activated Carbon Oxidation (CAACO)", Fenton Activated Carbon Catalytic Oxidation (FACCO), Hetero Activated Carbon Catalytic Oxidation (HAFCO), Fluidised Immobilised Carbon Cataytic Oxidation (FICCO), Electro Catalytic Oxidation (ECO), Salt Removal from Organic & Inorganic Mixture (SRIOM), Process and Enzyme Immobilised Carbon Oxidation (ENICO), Electro Fluidized Cermet Catalytic Oxidation (HEFCCO) Technology and most of his technologies are commercialized in industries of India, bangaladesh, Malaysia, Africa, etc.
He is a successful consultant in the Environmental Engineering field for the treatment of liquid, solid and gaseous waste streams discharged from industry and domestic sectors.
Recently one of his technologies got recognition and approval by Malaysian Government. He has received prestigious Tamil Nadu State Council (TANSA) Award for eminence in Environmental Science for 2006. He is the recipient of National Technology Award in 2007 for the development of CAACO Technology. He has more than 300 publications and 35 patents to his credit. Most of his patents have been commercialized. He has toured to countries such as Netherland, England, Dubai, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Sri Lanka, West Africa (GHANA), Nabibia, Ethiopia (East Africa) and Vietnam in connection with implementing his innovated technologies for the treatment of wastewater discharged from industrial and domestic sectors.
- Email:sekarang1@srmist.edu.in
