Dr. K. M. Lokanatha Rai is a highly esteemed academician and researcher with over 37 years of research experience and a total teaching tenure of more than four decades. He has served the University of Mysore in various capacities—Lecturer (1982–1995), Reader (1995–2003), and currently as a Professor in the Department of Studies in Chemistry until his retirement on 30th December 2016. His work spans across organic synthesis, heterocyclic chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and photochemistry, establishing him as a leader in his domain.
Significant Achievements
Dr. Rai’s exemplary career is adorned with several prestigious national honors, including:
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Bharatha Rathna Dr. Radhakrishnan Gold Medal Award (2018)
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Bharatha Rathna Dr. Abdul Kalam Gold Medal Award (2019)
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Lifetime Achievement Award (2020) by VDGOOD International Scientist Awards
His academic output includes 234 research publications (170 international, 59 national) and 92 papers presented at national and international symposia. His works have garnered over 4,154 citations, with an h-index of 33, i10-index of 79, and a ResearchGate score of 39.06, reflecting his sustained impact in the field of chemistry.
Notable Contributions
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Books and Monographs: Dr. Rai has authored and edited over a dozen scholarly books, including internationally cited chapters in Pergamon Press, Springer-Verlag, and Cambridge Scholar Publishing. Topics span from benzoin reactions, aziridine-fused heterocycles, to eco-friendly carbohydrate and carbonyl chemistry.
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Research Leadership: He handled 14 research projects as a co-principal investigator and has guided numerous postgraduate and doctoral students.
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Journal Service: He serves on the editorial board of the International Journal of Biomedical Sciences (New York, USA) and is a life member of several premier scientific organizations, including the Indian Science Congress Association and BARC’s Indian Society of Analytical Scientists.
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Academic Contributions: Dr. Rai has contributed significantly to chemistry education through course materials in organic chemistry and Kannada-language publications, making science more accessible to regional learners.
Eligibility for Best Researcher Award
With a robust academic legacy, international recognition, impactful publications, and dedication to research mentorship, Dr. K. M. Lokanatha Rai is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Scientific Laurels. His pioneering work in organic chemistry, sustained scholarly output, and contributions to chemical education and science outreach exemplify the spirit of academic excellence.