Dr. Naresh Kumar Thakur is presently working as Principal in BBN College Chakmoh, located in Dist. Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh. Before it he was an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry in same institute. With an impressive teaching career that spans over 33 years, Dr. Thakur has dedicated his professional life to advancing chemical education and research. His primary areas of expertise include organic chemistry, particularly the study of saponins and related natural products derived from medicinal plants.
Academic and Professional Background
Dr. Thakur began his academic journey at GSSS Hatwar, followed by a Bachelor of Science degree (Medical) at MLSMC Sundernagar, Dist. Mandi, HP where he ranked second in his group in HP University in 1987. He completed his M.Sc. and M.Phil. in Chemistry from HPU Shimla, specializing in Organic Chemistry, and earned his Ph.D. in 1995 with research focused on saponins from local medicinal plant species. He has held prestigious scholarships, including the H.P.U. Scholarship during his M.Sc. studies and a National Scholarship during his higher secondary education.
Teaching and Research Experience
Since August 1991, Dr. Thakur has been committed to teaching and mentoring students in the field of chemistry. His way of teaching particularly Organic Chemistry and focus on laboratory work are highly appreciated by the students. He has guided five students in M.Phil. research, with projects examining saponins in various plant species. His own research has contributed substantially to understanding natural compounds, specifically Oligofurostanosides and Oligospirostanosides. His work has led to numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals such as Phytochemistry, Journal of Indian Council of Chemists, Plant Archives, and Inorganic Chemistry Communications.
Publications and Contributions
Dr. Thakur has authored and co-authored over fifteen research papers in reputable journals. His publications delve into the chemistry of saponins and their potential antibacterial and antioxidant properties. His recent work includes studies on silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles in collaboration with other researchers. His expertise in chemistry has also extended to authoring a textbook, New System Organic Chemistry for B.Sc.-I, published in 2001.
Conferences, Workshops, and Webinars
Dr. Thakur is an active participant in academic and professional conferences, including both national and international gatherings. He presented at the International Conference on Recent Trends in Chemical Sciences (RTCS) in 2020 and has attended several national conferences and workshops on topics ranging from material characterization to intellectual property rights. He has also been a regular attendee at faculty development programs (FDPs), focusing on enhancing teaching and research methodologies.
Awards and Honors
In recognition of his enduring contributions to the field of chemistry, Dr. Thakur received the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ in the International Scientist Awards on Engineering, Science, and Medicine in 2022. His long-standing dedication and research achievements make him eligible for the Lifetime Achievement Award by Scientific Laurels, which honors individuals for extraordinary impact in their respective fields.
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Thakur is a life fellow of the Indian Council of Chemists (ICC), a prestigious membership that highlights his commitment to the advancement of chemistry in India. He has continually contributed to the academic community through his work, mentoring, and engagement in scientific events and publications.
With his extensive background and significant contributions, Dr. Naresh Kumar Thakur exemplifies dedication to both academia and research, earning respect and recognition within the scientific community.