The Department of Chemistry, Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College (Autonomous), Ujire, organised a two-day National Level Conference titled “Chemical Synergies: Innovations for Health, Environmental Sustainability and Industrial Transformation” (ChemSyn-2026) on October 8 and 9, 2026. The conference aimed to provide a platform for academicians, researchers, students and industry professionals to exchange scientific knowledge and explore recent advancements in chemical sciences.
The conference was inaugurated in the presence of Prof. B. Shivaram Holla, former Chairman and Professor of Chemistry, Mangalore University, Mangalagangothri, who delivered the inaugural address. Dr. Bhagavatula L. V. Prasad, Chief Scientist, Physical/Material Chemistry Division, CSIR–National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune, was the Chief Guest, while Prof. Vishwanatha P., Principal of SDM College, Ujire, presided over the inaugural function.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Bhagavatula L. V. Prasad on “A Chemist’s Perspective on Large-Scale Nanomaterial Synthesis: How to Bridge the Gap Between Laboratory and Market?” The conference featured five technical sessions and a plenary session delivered by eminent scientists and academicians from reputed research institutions and universities.
The technical sessions covered a wide range of contemporary topics, including the valorisation of biowastes into functional polymeric materials, molecular approaches to therapeutics, radiochemistry and industrial applications of radioisotopes, oxidative cross-coupling of heterocycles for sustainable synthesis, and energy storage technologies involving lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries.
The invited speakers included Dr. Aarti S. Bhatt, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, NMAM Institute of Technology, Nitte; Dr. Suhas R., Senior Scientist, Plantation Products, Spices and Flavour Technology Department, CSIR–CFTRI, Mysuru; Dr. Veerendra Bhadrasetty, Consultant and Chief Radiochemist, Health Care Global Enterprises, PET CT and Cyclotron Department, Bengaluru; Dr. Rishikesh Narayan, Associate Professor, School of Chemical and Materials Sciences and School of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, IIT Goa; and Dr. Viswanatha R., Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, Jyothy Institute of Technology, Bengaluru. The plenary session was delivered by Dr. Vijesh A. M., Associate Professor, PG and Research Department of Chemistry, Payyanur College, Kannur, Kerala.
Oral and poster presentation sessions formed an integral part of the conference, providing undergraduate students, research scholars and faculty members with opportunities to present their research findings, exchange ideas and receive constructive feedback from experts. The presentations encouraged scientific discussions and promoted research-oriented learning among participants.
As part of the conference, awards were presented to recognise outstanding research presentations. Srishti G. of Jain University, Bengaluru, received the Best Oral Presentation Award. Sipra Nayak of Jain University, Bengaluru, received the Best Poster Presentation Award in the Student Category. Yashaswini Reddy of the Department of Biophysics, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, received the Best Poster Presentation Award in the Research Scholar and Faculty Category. The awards recognised the participants’ research contributions and presentation skills.
A cultural programme was organised on the first day, providing a platform for students to showcase their talents and adding vibrancy to the academic gathering.
The conference concluded with a valedictory function on October 9. Dr. Suhas R. was the Chief Guest, and Prof. Vishwanatha P., Principal of SDM College, Ujire, presided over the programme. The valedictory session marked the successful culmination of two days of scientific deliberations, research presentations and academic interaction.
ChemSyn-2026 reflected the institution’s commitment to promoting scientific research, interdisciplinary collaboration and academic excellence. The conference provided a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and inspired participants to explore innovative and sustainable solutions to emerging challenges in healthcare, environmental protection and industrial development. The conference was organised under the guidance of the college administration and the Department of Chemistry, with the active involvement and cooperation of faculty members, students and volunteers. The successful conduct of ChemSyn-2026 marked a significant contribution towards strengthening scientific awareness and fostering a vibrant research culture on campus.
