Category: Biography

Prof. Dr Subhas Karki: Professor at KLE College of Pharmacy-Bengaluru, INDIA

Dr. Subhas S. Karki is an accomplished academician and researcher with over two decades of expertise in pharmaceutical chemistry, specializing in the design and synthesis of novel drug candidates. As a Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at KLE College of Pharmacy in Bengaluru, Dr. Karki has made significant contributions to the fields of drug discovery, molecular pharmacology, and medicinal chemistry. His work, particularly in anticancer agents and DNA repair inhibitors, has led to multiple patents and peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Karki is also a prominent member of various national and international professional bodies and continues to mentor the next generation of pharmaceutical scientists.

Online Profiles

• ORCID: 0000-0002-5599-3594 – This link connects to his ORCID profile, providing a comprehensive list of his academic and research output.

• Scopus Author ID: 7004600123 – A unique identifier for Dr. Karki’s research publications in the Scopus database.

• Vidwan-ID: 262416 – His profile on Vidwan, the national database of experts and scholars in India, showcasing his academic and research contributions.

Education

Dr. Karki’s academic journey has been distinguished by top-tier institutions and notable achievements. He completed his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from Jadavpur University, Kolkata, where his research on Ruthenium-based anticancer agents utilized computer-aided drug design (CADD) for the development of potential therapeutics. His M.Pharm. from Karnataka University, Dharwad, where he graduated at the top of his class, focused on the synthesis of acetazolamide derivatives, contributing to significant advancements in pharmacological screenings. His foundational education began at KLE College of Pharmacy, Belgaum, where he earned his B.Pharm.

Research Focus

Dr. Karki’s research interest lies primarily in the areas of drug design, molecular pharmacology, and the development of novel therapeutic agents targeting cancer, antimicrobial infections, and inflammatory diseases. His research is particularly focused on the design and synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, Ruthenium complexes, and DNA repair inhibitors. These compounds exhibit potent anticancer activity, and Dr. Karki’s lab has pioneered work on BCL-2 inhibitors and compounds aimed at targeting heat shock proteins. His innovative use of computational chemistry and molecular modeling has allowed for the rational design of more effective and targeted drug candidates with minimal side effects.

Experience

Dr. Karki’s professional career spans more than 25 years, with a proven track record in both teaching and research. Since 1996, he has been a faculty member at KLE College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, climbing the ranks from Lecturer to Professor. His leadership roles include serving as the Vice-Principal (2016-2018) and Principal (2018-2019), where he played a key role in academic administration and fostering research-driven culture. His contributions also include serving as a visiting scholar at the University of Saskatchewan, Canada, under the Boyscast Fellowship, where he collaborated on drug design research. Dr. Karki has been involved in guiding over 26 M.Pharm students and more than 10 Ph.D. candidates, with many of his students winning awards and making significant contributions to the field.

Research Timeline

• 2001–2003: Dr. Karki’s doctoral research at Jadavpur University, Kolkata, focused on utilizing computer-aided drug design (CADD) to develop novel Ruthenium derivatives as potential antineoplastic agents. His work contributed significantly to the field of computational pharmacology.

• 2005–2008: During his Boyscast Fellowship at the University of Saskatchewan, Canada, Dr. Karki collaborated on the synthesis of novel anticancer agents, further enhancing his expertise in drug design and development.

• 2008–Present: As a faculty member at KLE College of Pharmacy, Dr. Karki has led several funded research projects, exploring the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds and their biological activities. His recent projects have focused on developing DNA repair inhibitors, BCL-2 inhibitors, and exploring heat shock protein inhibitors in the context of cancer therapy.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Karki’s excellence in research and teaching has been recognized through numerous awards. He was awarded the Boyscast Fellowship by the Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi, in 2006-07, a prestigious honor for young scientists. He has also received multiple patent awards, including US Patent No. 9,969,696B2 for inhibitors of DNA double-strand break repair and the UK Patent G82523674 for the same invention. Dr. Karki has been honored with the AORP Award (2024) for outstanding research publications by VGST, Karnataka, and has been named Best Teacher (2014) and Best Scientist (2015) by KLE University. In addition, he was recognized by the American Association of Government College of Pharmacy Alumni (2013) for his contributions to pharmaceutical sciences.

Top-Noted Publication

Dr. Karki’s published research spans a variety of journals and conferences, with his work contributing significantly to the field of medicinal chemistry and drug design. Noteworthy publications include:

1. Synthesis of Novel Pyridazine and Pyrimidine Linked Pyrazole Derivatives as DNA Ligase 1 and IV Inhibitors That Induce Apoptosis

Published in: Chemico-Biological Interactions (June 2025)
DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2025.111509
Contributors: S. Aishwarya, Gabriela C. Torres, Jose A. Lopez-Saenz, Denisse A. Gutierrez, Sujeet Kumar, Ashok Madarakhandi, Basavaraj Metikurki, Nishith Teraiya, Renato J. Aguilera, Subhas S. Karki
This paper discusses the synthesis of new pyridazine and pyrimidine-based pyrazole derivatives that act as potent inhibitors of DNA Ligase 1 and DNA Ligase IV, key enzymes in the DNA repair mechanism. These derivatives have shown promise in inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, making them potential candidates for future cancer therapies.

2. 1,4-Disubstituted-1,2,3-Triazole Linked Cyclic Ketones as Cytotoxic Agents

Published in: Preprint (May 2025)
DOI: 10.20944/preprints202505.1137.v1
Contributors: Aranav Kumar, Sujeet Kumar, Arnika Das, Basavraj Metikurki, Dominique Schols, Subhas S. Karki
This preprint focuses on the design and synthesis of 1,4-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazole derivatives linked to cyclic ketones. These compounds have been evaluated for their cytotoxic properties, showing promising results in in vitro assays. The study highlights the potential of these compounds as new anticancer agents.

3. Investigation of Anti-Cancer Properties of Novel Curcuminoids in Leukemic Cells and Dalton Lymphoma Ascites Model

Published in: International Journal of Molecular Sciences (March 2025)
DOI: 10.3390/ijms26073186
Contributors: Vijayalakshmi Sudarshan, Shyamjith P, Sujeet Kumar, Febina Ravindran, Bibha Choudhary, Subhas S. Karki
In this article, Dr. Karki and collaborators investigate the anticancer properties of novel curcuminoids in leukemic cells and the Dalton lymphoma ascites model. The study shows that these compounds possess significant antitumor activity, offering a potential therapeutic strategy in cancer treatment.

4. Synthesis, in Silico ADME, Molecular Docking and in vitro Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Indolin-2-one Linked Stilbene Derivatives

Published in: Asian Journal of Chemistry (February 2025)
DOI: 10.14233/ajchem.2025.33334
Contributors: Dimple Pirgal, Subhas S. Karki, Sujeet Kumar, Basavraj Metikurki
This paper highlights the design, synthesis, and evaluation of indolin-2-one linked stilbene derivatives as potential anticancer agents. The study includes an in silico ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) analysis, molecular docking studies, and in vitro cytotoxicity assays, demonstrating the promising efficacy of these compounds in cancer therapy.

5. Dysfunctional Mitochondrial Bioenergetics Sustains Drug Resistance in Cancer Cells

Published in: American Journal of Physiology. Cell Physiology (January 2025)
DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00538.2024
PMID: 39853268
Contributors: Gnocchi D, Nikolic D, Russo S, Matrella ML, Paparella RR, Kumar S, Karki SS, Sabbà C, Tiziana Maria Cocco, Simona Lobasso, et al.
This article explores how dysfunctional mitochondrial bioenergetics contribute to drug resistance in cancer cells. The authors highlight the biochemical changes in cancer cell mitochondria that lead to resistance against chemotherapy, suggesting new targets for overcoming drug resistance in cancer therapy.

Professor Garudadhwaj Hota: Professor at National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India

Prof. Garudadhwaj Hota is a seasoned academic and researcher currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela. He specializes in nanomaterials, environmental remediation, and surface chemistry. Over the course of his career, Dr. Hota has established a strong reputation for developing advanced nanostructures and functional materials with applications in water purification, energy harvesting, and catalysis. His research is deeply rooted in addressing real-world environmental challenges through scientific innovation. With over 60 high-impact publications, multiple research projects, and a history of successful Ph.D. supervision, he remains a prominent figure in the Indian scientific research community.

Online Profiles

Scopus Profile

Dr. Hota maintains a strong presence across several academic platforms. His professional profile can be accessed via the NIT Rourkela faculty page, where his academic contributions, teaching responsibilities, and research interests are regularly updated. His Google Scholar profile showcases a comprehensive list of his citations, h-index, and publication record. He also engages with the broader research community through ResearchGate, where he shares preprints, project updates, and collaborates with peers globally. If applicable, his ORCID ID ensures proper attribution of his work across journals and funding bodies, providing a unique identifier linking all his scholarly contributions.

• Total Citations: 2,328

• Documents Published: 65

• h-index: 27

Dr. Hota’s Scopus profile reflects his substantial contributions to the field of nanomaterials and environmental chemistry, with over 2,000 citations across 65 publications. His research, which has been cited extensively, focuses on nanomaterials, photocatalysis, and surface science. His h-index of 27 further indicates the impact of his work in the scientific community.

Education

Dr. Hota has a solid academic foundation with degrees from some of the most reputed institutions. He completed his B.Sc. in 1995 with a focus on Physics, Chemistry (Hons), and Mathematics from Sambalpur University, followed by an M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry in 1997, where he ranked third in his class. He went on to earn an M.Phil. in Chemistry in 1998, securing the first rank. His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay in 2004, where he worked on core-shell and composite nanomaterials with a focus on surface science. This diverse and interdisciplinary education has equipped him with the expertise to tackle complex chemical problems using nanotechnological solutions.

Research Focus

Dr. Hota’s research revolves around the design, synthesis, and functionalization of hybrid nanomaterials for various environmental and catalytic applications. His current work emphasizes visible-light-responsive photocatalysts, nanostructured adsorbents for heavy metal and organic pollutant removal, and heterostructured materials for energy generation and storage. He is particularly interested in the mechanistic aspects of charge transfer, heterojunction formation, and surface modification strategies to enhance material performance. His interdisciplinary approach often integrates materials science, environmental engineering, and surface chemistry, positioning his work at the forefront of applied nanotechnology.

Experience

Dr. Hota began his research career as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the National University of Singapore (2004–2007), where he worked on functional nanostructures and advanced materials. He joined NIT Rourkela as a Lecturer in 2007 and progressed steadily through academic ranks, becoming an Assistant Professor in 2009, Associate Professor in 2012, and full Professor in 2023. Throughout his tenure, he has been actively involved in curriculum development, research supervision, and leading funded projects. His teaching spans across inorganic chemistry, nanotechnology, and environmental science, and he has been instrumental in nurturing young researchers in these domains.

Research Timeline

Dr. Hota’s research journey began post-Ph.D. at NUS Singapore, where he worked on nanomaterials for three years. Upon returning to India, he initiated his independent research career at NIT Rourkela. From 2007 to 2012, he laid the groundwork for his research group, publishing foundational work on nanoadsorbents and hybrid composites. Between 2012 and 2023, his lab gained national recognition with several funded projects, including a major one from BRNS on arsenic removal. During this period, he mentored 09 Ph.D. scholars and expanded his research into photocatalysis and sensing applications. Since 2023, he continues to lead cutting-edge work in nanomaterials as a full Professor.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Hota has been recognized for both academic excellence and research innovation. He was ranked first in his M.Phil. class and third in his M.Sc., highlighting his consistent academic brilliance. His research contributions have been acknowledged through government-funded projects, including support from the Board of Research in Nuclear Sciences (BRNS), Government of India. Additionally, he has served as a reviewer and editorial board member for reputed journals in the fields of materials chemistry and nanotechnology. Though primarily focused on research, his dedication to teaching and mentorship has also earned him recognition within the institute.

Top-Noted Publication

Among Dr. Hota’s prolific publication record, one standout paper is:
Shubhalaxmi Choudhury, Ugrabadi Sahoo, Samarjit Pattnayak, Pragnyashree Aparajita, Garudadhwaj Hota, “Designing ZnBi₂O₄/ZIF-67 Derived Hollow Co₃O₄ Decorated Reduced Graphene Oxide: A Hybrid Nanocatalyst with Boosted Visible-Light Photocatalytic Activities,” published in ACS Applied Engineering Materials (2024, 2(7), 1766–1783). This work exemplifies his expertise in photocatalysis and nanocomposite design, offering a novel material that demonstrates superior performance in degrading environmental pollutants under visible light. The paper received considerable attention due to its innovative approach to energy-efficient pollutant removal.

B, S Co-doped g-C₃N₄ Hollow Nanotubes/MIL-53 Heterostructure: A MOF-Derived High-Performance Z-Scheme Photocatalyst for Bisphenol A Degradation and H₂ Evolution

Authors: Ugrabadi Sahoo, Samarjit Pattnayak, Shubhalaxmi Choudhury, Sandeep Das, Garudadhwaj Hota

Journal: Optical Materials

Year: 2025

Citations: 1

Abstract: This article presents the synthesis of B, S co-doped g-C₃N₄ hollow nanotubes integrated with MIL-53, forming a Z-scheme photocatalyst that demonstrates exceptional photocatalytic degradation of Bisphenol A and H₂ evolution under visible light.

l-Cysteine-Functionalized Boron-Doped Graphitic Carbon Nitride Quantum Dots: A Biocompatible Fluorescent Sensor for Cadmium Detection in Water

Authors: Samarjit Pattnayak, Shubhalaxmi Choudhury, Ugrabadi Sahoo, Riya Adhikari, Garudadhwaj Hota

Journal: Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research

Year: 2025

Citations: 1

Abstract: This work focuses on the development of a biocompatible sensor using l-cysteine-functionalized boron-doped g-C₃N₄ quantum dots for the detection of cadmium ions in aqueous environments, showcasing high sensitivity and selectivity.

Facile Synthesis of Defect-Induced CeO₂/MIL-53(Fe) Nanocatalyst: Strategically Switching the Charge Transfer Dynamics for Remarkable Enhancement of Photocatalytic Bisphenol A Degradation and H₂ Evolution

Authors: Ugrabadi Sahoo, Samarjit Pattnayak, Shubhalaxmi Choudhury, Dillip K. Pradhan, Garudadhwaj Hota

Journal: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental

Year: 2024

Citations: 43

Abstract: In this paper, the authors describe the preparation of a CeO₂/MIL-53(Fe) composite catalyst with enhanced charge transfer properties, significantly improving photocatalytic activity for Bisphenol A degradation and hydrogen evolution.

Effect of rGO Concentrations on the Structural, Vibrational, and Dielectric Properties of PVDF-HFP/rGO Composite

Authors: Praveen Kumar Panda, Manamohan Tripathy, Garudadhwaj Hota, Dillip K. Pradhan

Conference Paper: Open Access

Year: 2024

Citations: 0

Abstract: This study investigates the influence of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) concentrations on the structural and dielectric properties of PVDF-HFP/rGO composites, which could find applications in flexible electronics and energy storage devices.

Green Chemistry Mediated and Biogenic Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles: Prospects and Challenges

Authors: Samarjit Pattnayak, Shubhalaxmi Choudhury, Garudadhwaj Hota

Book Chapter

Citations: 0

Abstract: This book chapter discusses the biogenic synthesis of gold nanoparticles using green chemistry principles, exploring both the advantages and challenges associated with this eco-friendly synthesis method.

Fluorescent Carbon Nanoparticles as Fluorescent Sensing Platform for Metal Ions Detection

Authors: Samarjit Pattnayak, Garudadhwaj Hota

Book Chapter

Citations: 0

Abstract: This chapter focuses on the use of fluorescent carbon nanoparticles for the detection of metal ions in water, highlighting their applications as efficient sensors in environmental monitoring.

Assoc. Prof Manoj Kumar: Associate Professor at Department of Zoology, D.S.B. Campus, Kumaun University, Nainital, Uttarakhand, India

Assoc. Prof Manoj Kumar Arya is an accomplished Associate Professor in the Department of Zoology at D.S.B. Campus, Kumaun University, Nainital, Uttarakhand, India. A dedicated researcher, academician, and entomologist, Dr. Arya has more than 20 years of research experience and 16 years of teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He is widely recognized for his contributions to insect taxonomy, biodiversity conservation, and ecological studies in the Western Himalayas. His work has significantly advanced knowledge in forest entomology, particularly regarding pollinator communities, butterfly ecology, and species distribution in protected areas. Dr. Arya has successfully guided six Ph.D. scholars, currently supervises three, and remains active in research, teaching, and academic administration.

Online Profiles

ORCID Profile

Scopus Profile

Dr. Arya maintains a visible academic presence through several research platforms and networks. His research publications and collaborative projects are available on Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and ORCID, where his academic footprint reflects his active engagement in entomological research. These platforms provide access to his journal articles, citation metrics, co-author networks, and project updates, making his scientific contributions accessible to peers and students globally.

Dr. Manoj Kumar Arya is affiliated with Kumaun University, Nainital, India. His profile showcases 22 research documents, which have received 54 citations across 42 documents, indicating his contributions are being steadily referenced in the scholarly community. His current h-index stands at 4, reflecting a growing impact in the fields of entomology and biodiversity. Dr. Arya is encouraged to associate his Scopus profile with his ORCID ID and Mendeley to further enhance visibility and integration across research platforms.

Education

Dr. Arya obtained his Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Zoology with a specialization in Entomology from Kumaun University, Nainital, in 1999. He went on to earn his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Zoology in 2005 from Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar. His doctoral research laid the groundwork for his deep involvement in insect ecology, systematics, and environmental interactions. With a strong academic foundation, he has continued to broaden his expertise through numerous faculty development programmes, orientation courses, and specialized workshops in molecular tools, taxonomy, and environmental sciences.

Research Focus

Dr. Arya’s research is rooted in the ecological and taxonomic investigation of insects, particularly Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), focusing on their biodiversity, habitat associations, population dynamics, and ecological services in Himalayan ecosystems. He studies the role of insects in pollination, their response to climatic gradients, and their use as bioindicators in forest health assessments. His interdisciplinary approach integrates classical taxonomy, field ecology, GIS, and molecular tools, with an emphasis on high-altitude and protected area entomofauna. Current research also includes morphometric and molecular characterization of insect taxa and the impacts of environmental disturbances like forest fires.

Experience

Dr. Arya brings a wealth of academic, administrative, and research experience to his role at Kumaun University. His teaching spans a wide range of zoological topics, particularly entomology, ecology, and biodiversity studies, delivered to undergraduate and postgraduate students. He has held various responsibilities including Assistant Superintendent of Examinations, Member of the Proctorial Board, NSS Programme Officer, Member of Admission Committees, and Coordinator of Pre-Ph.D. coursework. His role as a resource person, invited speaker, and organizer in national seminars and webinars further demonstrates his active involvement in knowledge dissemination and institutional development.

Research Timeline

Since the early 2000s, Dr. Arya has pursued a progressive research agenda beginning with baseline taxonomic surveys and leading to complex ecological modeling and applied conservation strategies. Over the years, he has completed university-funded research projects and mentored students whose dissertations have explored insect communities in various protected areas like Corbett Tiger Reserve, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nandhour Wildlife Sanctuary. His recent projects involve species composition and molecular work on swallowtail butterflies and pollinators in Himalayan biotopes. This timeline reflects a steady evolution from descriptive biodiversity work to integrative ecological and molecular studies.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Arya’s research excellence has been recognized through several national and institutional honors, including a prestigious cash prize and medal from the Vice Chancellor of Kumaun University in 2022 for outstanding contribution to Zoology. In 2023, he received the Best Entomologist Award and Best Paper Presentation Award in national scientific forums. He has earned fellowships from the Zoological Society of India (FZSI) and the Indian Academy of Environmental Sciences (FIAES), along with medals for research presentation, poster sessions, and science festivals. These accolades highlight his leadership in entomology and environmental sciences.

Top-Noted Publication

Among Dr. Arya’s 58 published research papers, his work titled “Widespread butterflies follow inconsistent trends in the Bergmann’s rule and flight morphometry: Implications for conservation in the Western Himalaya” stands out. Published in Acta Oecologica (Elsevier, 2023), this study challenges classical ecological rules and offers vital insights into butterfly morphology in relation to elevation and climate, emphasizing the conservation needs of montane insect species. With implications for ecological modeling and policy planning, this publication reflects the innovative and applied dimensions of Dr. Arya’s research.

Among Dr. Manoj Kumar Arya’s recent impactful works, two peer-reviewed articles stand out for their contributions to the understanding of plant–insect interactions in the Western Himalaya. The 2025 study, titled “Flower visiting insects of the invasive Mexican daisy (Erigeron karvinskianus DC) and its proximity effect on native flora in the Western Himalaya”, was published in Oriental Insects (DOI: 10.1080/00305316.2024.2448695). It explores how this invasive species influences pollinator dynamics and native plant interactions. Another notable publication, “Diversity of Anthophilous Insects on Naturalized Species Ageratina adenophora (Spreng.) King & H. Rob. in Western Himalaya”, appeared in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, India Section B: Biological Sciences in 2022 (DOI: 10.1007/s40011-022-01366-y), offering insights into the ecological implications of another widespread naturalized species. These works reflect Dr. Arya’s focused research on pollination ecology, invasive flora, and biodiversity conservation in fragile mountain ecosystems.