Prof. HRUDANANDA JENA | Research and development in science | Best Researcher Award
Homi Bhabha National Institute, IGCAR campus, India
Author Profile
🌱 Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Hrudananda Jena’s journey into the world of science began with a deep-rooted curiosity for materials and their transformations. Born on December 31, 1966, in India, his academic inclination matured into a focused pursuit of knowledge in the realm of materials science. His doctoral studies at the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, placed him in the heart of one of India’s leading scientific institutions. There, he explored ionic transport phenomena and the structural behavior of perovskite materials — critical components in many modern technologies — through his thesis titled “Ionic transport and structural investigations on selected perovskites synthesized by wet chemical methods.”
His strong foundation in experimental and theoretical materials science was further strengthened by his postdoctoral research at Southern University, Baton Rouge, USA, from July 2005 to August 2006. There, he contributed to a United States Department of Energy (U.S-DOE-NETL) project, further honing his skills in advanced material characterization and expanding his research horizon into energy technologies.
🧪 Professional Endeavors
Dr. Jena’s professional trajectory is marked by a distinguished association with the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), one of India’s premier nuclear research facilities under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). Currently serving as the Head of the Materials Processing Chemistry Section and holding the senior rank of Scientific Officer (H), he plays a pivotal role in pioneering material synthesis and processing techniques essential to the atomic energy program.
Simultaneously, he contributes to the academic ecosystem as a Professor in Chemical Sciences at the Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, stationed at the IGCAR campus. His dual role as a researcher and educator underscores his commitment to advancing science both in practice and pedagogy.
From developing cutting-edge techniques in materials processing to mentoring young scientists, Dr. Jena’s role at IGCAR spans innovation, leadership, and strategic planning in material chemistry critical to India’s nuclear fuel cycle and energy future.
🔬 Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Jena’s research revolves around materials chemistry, solid-state ionics, wet chemical synthesis, and perovskite structures. His doctoral and postdoctoral work laid the foundation for his continuing interest in ionic conductivity and material stability — topics of central importance in energy storage devices, fuel cells, and nuclear material development.
At IGCAR, he has led efforts in processing nuclear materials using innovative wet chemical routes and advanced characterization. His expertise in solid-state synthesis and chemical methods has contributed to efficient material development techniques vital for metal fuel cycles. His work supports the safe and efficient operation of fast breeder reactors and aligns with India’s long-term nuclear energy goals.
In addition to his hands-on laboratory contributions, Dr. Jena is also known for his interdisciplinary collaborations, especially those integrating chemical sciences with physics and engineering domains.
🏆 Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Jena’s academic and professional excellence has been recognized both nationally and internationally. His selection as a Senior Research Associate on a U.S. Department of Energy project is a testament to his global scientific standing. Domestically, his continuous rise within the Department of Atomic Energy, from researcher to section head and scientific officer at the highest grade, reflects the high regard in which he is held by India’s scientific community.
Moreover, his appointment as a Professor at HBNI further affirms his stature not only as a researcher but also as a thought leader and educator in chemical sciences.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Dr. Jena’s influence reaches beyond his laboratory at Kalpakkam. His work directly supports India’s strategic energy autonomy, particularly in the nuclear sector. The materials he helps develop and process are integral to fuel safety, reactor efficiency, and long-term sustainability in nuclear power generation.
As a mentor and professor, he has inspired numerous young scientists, guiding them through advanced research and helping them understand the complex interplay between chemistry and energy systems. His participation in both national and international forums adds to his impact, enabling knowledge exchange and fostering global scientific cooperation.
🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions
With decades of rich experience, Dr. Hrudananda Jena continues to be a guiding force in the field of materials chemistry. His legacy will be defined not just by the innovations he has introduced but also by the scientific culture he fosters — one grounded in curiosity, precision, and purpose.
Looking ahead, his continued contributions to the chemical sciences, particularly in sustainable nuclear materials and energy systems, are expected to remain central to India’s scientific advancement. As the global demand for clean and safe energy intensifies, researchers like Dr. Jena will be at the forefront of crafting solutions that balance innovation with safety and environmental stewardship.
His journey stands as a beacon for aspiring scientists, showing that rigorous research, global collaboration, and a commitment to national development can come together to create a meaningful and lasting impact.
Synthesis of nano-crystalline zeolite-A and zeolite-X from Indian coal fly ash, its characterization and performance evaluation for the removal of Cs⁺ and Sr²⁺ from simulated solutions
Authors: M.K. Murukutti, H. Jena
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
Year: 2022
Ionic transport and structural investigations on MSn(OH)₆ (M = Ba, Ca, Mg, Co, Zn, Fe, Mn) hydroxide perovskites synthesized by wet sonochemical methods
Authors: H. Jena, K.V.G. Kutty, T.R.N. Kutty
Journal: Materials Chemistry and Physics
Year: 2004
Innovative processing of dense LSGM electrolytes for IT-SOFCs
Authors: B. Rambabu, S. Ghosh, W. Zhao, H. Jena
Journal: Journal of Power Sources
Year: 2006
Actinide immobilization in crystalline matrix: a study of uranium incorporation in gadolinium zirconate
Authors: K.V.G. Kutty, R. Asuvathraman, R.R. Madhavan, H. Jena
Journal: Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids
Year: 2005
Direct single-step synthesis of phase pure zeolite Na–P1, hydroxy sodalite and analcime from coal fly ash and assessment of their Cs⁺ and Sr²⁺ removal efficiencies
Authors: M.M. Kumar, H. Jena
Journal: Microporous and Mesoporous Materials
Year: 2022