Dr. Prasanna Kumar is a dynamic and impactful researcher whose work spans materials engineering, renewable energy systems, bioresource utilization, and applied physics, consistently contributing to high-impact, interdisciplinary scientific advancements. His research output includes influential publications in leading international journals such as Fuel, The Lancet, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Materials & Design, and Journal of Applied Physics, demonstrating both depth and breadth in areas ranging from microalgae-based biorefineries to metal matrix composites, wear behavior analysis, thin-film modification, and collaborative biomedical investigations. His widely cited work on sustainable microalgae biomass utilization reflects significant contributions toward renewable bioenergy and circular bioeconomy frameworks, while his studies on hybrid composites, material wear mechanisms, and ZnO thin-film excitation have advanced understanding in applied materials science. His participation in landmark collaborative research, including a major clinical study on the BBV152 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, further positions him as a researcher with global scientific relevance. Beyond publications, he has shown exemplary leadership in applied research through sustained mentorship, guiding numerous student projects supported and selected by KSCST, focusing on practical innovations such as low-cost wind turbines, solar-powered devices, hybrid power generation systems, municipal smart-cleaning tools, and specialized testing rigs for composite materials. These projects demonstrate his commitment to bridging theoretical research with real-world engineering solutions, and his long-standing engagement in fostering innovation underscores his influence on future generations of researchers. With a record of impactful research, interdisciplinary collaborations, and innovation-driven mentorship, Dr. Prasanna Kumar stands out as a highly accomplished researcher who continues to contribute meaningfully to scientific progress and technological development.
Featured Publications
Siddiki, S. Y. A., Mofijur, M., Kumar, P. S., Ahmed, S. F., Inayat, A., Kusumo, F., … (2022). Microalgae biomass as a sustainable source for biofuel, biochemical and biobased value-added products: An integrated biorefinery concept. Fuel, 307, 121782.
Ella, R., Reddy, S., Blackwelder, W., Potdar, V., Yadav, P., Sarangi, V., Aileni, V. K., … (2021). Efficacy, safety, and lot-to-lot immunogenicity of an inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (BBV152): Interim results of a randomized, double-blind, controlled, phase 3 trial. The Lancet, 398(10317), 2173–2184.
Pfaeffle, R. W., Savage, J. J., Hunter, C. S., Palme, C., Ahlmann, M., Kumar, P., … (2007). Four novel mutations of the LHX3 gene cause combined pituitary hormone deficiencies with or without limited neck rotation. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 92(5), 1909–1919.
Kiran, T. S., Kumar, M. P., Basavarajappa, S., & Viswanatha, B. M. (2014). Dry sliding wear behavior of heat-treated hybrid metal matrix composite using Taguchi techniques. Materials & Design, 63, 294–304.
Kumar, P. M., Kartha, C. S., Vijayakumar, K. P., Singh, F., Avasthi, D. K., Abe, T., … (2005). Modifications of ZnO thin films under dense electronic excitation. Journal of Applied Physics, 97(1).