Brief History
The Department of Chemistry at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) is a prestigious and renowned institution for higher education and research in the field of Chemistry. Established in 1951, it was the brainchild of Sir J. C. Ghosh, a pioneering chemist and the first director of the institute. Since then, the department has consistently been at the forefront of academic excellence and cutting-edge research in various sub-disciplines of Chemistry. With a dedicated and accomplished faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, the department has been a driving force in shaping the future of chemical sciences in India.
The department hosts about 32 faculty members engaged in frontier research embracing both basic and applied areas of chemistry. About 170 young research scholars are currently pursuing their doctoral studies in the department. The department offers Integrated MSc (through IIT JEE) and Joint MSc PhD (through JAM) programs. Equipped with state-of-the art experimental and computational facilities, the department is engaged in several national and international collaborations with different academic and research institutions as well as industries. On the occasion of the International year of Chemistry (2011) the department was recognized as one of the six best Chemistry departments of the nation by the Department of Science and Technology, India.
Academics
The Department of Chemistry offers a comprehensive range of academic programs to cater to the diverse interests and aspirations of students. At the undergraduate level, the department offers a 4-year B.S. degree in Chemistry (admitted through IIT JEE), where students are exposed to core chemical principles and applications. This program equips students with a strong foundation in chemistry, making them well-prepared to address real-world challenges in various industries.
At the postgraduate level, the department offers an Integrated M.Sc. (admitted through IIT JEE) and Joint M.Sc. Ph.D. (admitted through JAM) programs in Chemistry, which covers various sub-disciplines such as Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Materials Chemistry. The curriculum is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and research skills to pursue further studies or embark on careers in academia, industry, or research institutions. Additionally, the department also offers Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) training for those aspiring to contribute significantly to scientific research and innovation.
Research
The Department of Chemistry at IIT Kharagpur is renowned for its groundbreaking research endeavors. Faculty members, along with their research groups, focus on cutting-edge research in diverse areas such as:
1. Organic Synthesis, Catalysis and Soft Materials
2. Inorganic Chemistry, Materials and Nanotechnology
3. Physical and Computational Chemistry
4. Analytical and Environmental Chemistry
5. Biological and Medicinal Chemistry
The department fosters an atmosphere of collaboration and encourages interdisciplinary research. Faculty members often collaborate with researchers from other departments within IIT Kharagpur and external institutions, both nationally and internationally, to address global challenges and push the boundaries of knowledge in Chemistry.
Infrastructure
The department is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, advanced instrumentation facilities, and computational resources to facilitate high-quality research and experiential learning. Students have access to modern analytical instruments, spectroscopy equipment, X-ray diffraction facilities, and computational tools, enabling them to engage in hands-on experiments and simulations.
Faculty
The Department of Chemistry at IIT Kharagpur boasts a team of highly qualified and accomplished faculty members who are recognized for their research contributions and academic excellence. They are dedicated mentors and guides to the students, fostering a conducive learning environment that nurtures creativity and critical thinking. The faculty members of the department have received many laurels and fellowships, such as, J. C. Bose National Fellowship, CRSI silver and bronze medals, FTWAS, FNA, FASc, FNASc, Ramanujan Fellowship, INSPIRE Faculty award, etc.
Student Life
Life at the Department of Chemistry, IIT Kharagpur, is vibrant and enriching. The students actively participate in various seminars, workshops, and conferences, which provide them with exposure to the latest developments in Chemistry. The department also hosts distinguished speakers from academia and industry, offering students valuable insights into the practical applications of their studies. Furthermore, the department encourages participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, promoting an all-round development of students' personalities.
The Department of Chemistry at IIT Kharagpur stands as a symbol of academic excellence and research prowess. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, cutting-edge research, and a commitment to nurturing future leaders in the field of Chemistry, the department continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of chemical sciences in India and beyond. Its contributions to academia, industry, and society are testimony to its dedication to excellence and innovation.
