Research Group

Vivek Rangarajan

Associate Professor

Biochemical / Bioprocess Engineering, Environmental Biotechnology, Microbial Biotechnology

Current Scholars

Vinoth Kannan

Title of research work: Process improvement in Urakkh and Feni Production Short Bio: I am working on the Comprehensive investigation on Feni production from cashew apple and strategic utilization of residual pulp waste to generate value-added products under the guidance of Prof. Sampatrao D. Manjare and Dr. Vivek Rangarajan. The Objectives of the Proposed Research include Development of suitable extraction process of cashew apple juice and optimize the fermentation and distillation process for the improved yield. My hobbies and interests apart from research include travelling and Blog writing. I hold an NCC ‘B’ Certificate adding to my credit. I have research Publications in reputed journals and have presented research outputs at numerous national and international conferences and seminars.

K.P. Sreelakshmi

Hi, I am K P Sreelakshmi, currently engaged in my doctoral journey in Biotechnology at the esteemed Biological Sciences Department of BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus. My roots trace back to Chennai, Tamil Nadu, where I was both born and educated at a Kendriya Vidyalaya. My academic journey led me to SRM University, where I obtained my bachelor's degree in biotechnology. For my graduate studies, I delved deeper into Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering at Sree Buddha College of Engineering. Throughout my academic path, I have honed my expertise in the fields of microbiology and bioprocess. In the realm of research, my primary focus centers on the biochemical and functional characterization of highly potent antifungal lipopeptides produced by Bacillus sp. This endeavor involves meticulous process optimization to extract their full potential. I am fortunate to be under the esteemed guidance of Professors Utpal Roy and Vivek Rangarajan as I undertake this fascinating study.

Dhundiraj Deshpande

I am Dhundiraj P. Deshpande, a dedicated Part-Time Ph.D. candidate engaged in research at BITS Pilani-K K Birla Goa Campus within the Department of Chemical Engineering. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Vivek Rangarajan, my research is centered around a cutting-edge approach: the production of biofuels derived from algae oil using the innovative technique of ultrasonication. My research interests expand to encompass biodiesel production from algae oil, the fine-tuning of reaction parameters through response surface methodology (RSM), and the exploration of heterogeneous catalytic transesterification reactions. Beyond my research endeavors, I also serve as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Engineering, Management, and Research in Akurdi, Pune, where I impart knowledge and expertise to the next generation of aspiring engineers.

Ashwini Padole

A budding Biochemical Engineer keen to bridge the gap between my academic knowledge and its potential applications. Currently, pursuing a Doctorate in Department of Chemical Engineering BITS, Pilani K K Birla Goa Campus. Title of the research work: Unlocking of Potential of Green Nano emulsion for Targeted Acne Vulgaris Therapy: Dynamic model-based optimization strategies. I have recently completed my Master’s in Chemical and Biotechnology from Savitribai Phule Pune University and hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from Priyadarshini Institute of Engineering and Technology, Nagpur. My Masters journey has taught me that how having some knowledge about Chemical engineering can play a huge role in Biotechnology. My absolute favorite things to do are paint and sketch.

Swaraj Sontakke

Hello everyone, I'm Swaraj S. Sontakke and I've embarked on a journey of exploration at BITS Goa as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) under guidance of Dr. Vivek Rangarajan, Prof. S. D. Manjare and Dr. Jayita Chopra. I hold a Master's degree in Chemical and Biotechnology from Savitribai Phule Pune University and a Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering from Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Engineering Management and Research, Pune. My academic journey has equipped me with a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical applications within the realm of chemical engineering and biotechnology. The primary focus of my doctoral research is the "Valorization of cashew apple and its waste pulp" Additionally, I enjoy indulging in outdoor activities such as hiking and playing sports like cricket, volleyball, and throwball, which not only refreshes my mind but also instills a sense of balance and resilience in my approach to life and research challenges.

Asbern Dsilva

Hi, I am Asbern J F Dsilva currently pursuing my PhD at BITS PILANI K K Birla Goa Campus. I have completed my Bachelors degree in Biotechnology and Masters of Science degree in Biotechnology from Goa university. I am currently working on Pigments from halophiles and their Biotechnological applications under the guidance of P.I Prof. Judith M Braganca (Biological Sciences) and Co-P.I Prof. Vivek Rangarajan (Chemical Engineering). My research work focuses on Isolation screening and applications of pigment producing microorganisms from hypersaline environments and assessment of the bioactive potential. There is a dire need to replace toxic synthetic pigments with natural eco friendly alternatives that can serve dual purpose of being a pigment as well as have good bioactive potential.

Omkar Gawade

I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in the Department of Chemical Engineering at BITS Pilani, K.K. Birla Goa Campus. I have completed my Master’s in Biotechnology from Karpagam University, Coimbatore. My academic background and core interests align with bioprocess engineering, and my research is focused in this area. Apart from academics, I enjoy trekking and exploring new things. I am also fitness oriented and like playing sports, particularly badminton.

Graduated Scholars

Dr. Neela Gayathri Ganesan (2018-2023)

Currently employed in Indfrag Biosciences Pvt Ltd as R&D Manager, Bengaluru Title of the thesis: Optimizing the bioprocess for improved surfactin production from Bacillus subtilis MTCC 2415 and further development of highly stable surfactin-based biocosmetic nanoemulsions

Dr. Subhranshu Samal (2020-2025)

Thesis title: Production of poly-γ-glutamic acid variant biopolymer from a thermophilic Bacillus licheniformis: dynamic modelling, media optimization and solar energy integration for its cost-effective production

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