Assist. Prof. Dr. Rajesh Kanna Gopal | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, India

Dr. Rajesh Kanna G. is a dedicated researcher with a strong background in Phycotechnology (Algal Biotechnology). With over nine years of experience, he has made significant contributions to the fields of anticancer and antiviral bioactive compounds, phycoremediation, bioplastics, and livestock feed derived from algae. As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai, Dr. Kanna has consistently demonstrated his passion for advancing knowledge in plant biology and biotechnology. His establishment of the Centre for Phycotechnology at Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS) further showcases his commitment to fostering research in algae-based biotechnologies. With numerous publications, a growing citation record, and an expanding research portfolio, he is a respected name in his field.

Professional Profile

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Education:

Dr. Rajesh Kanna G. completed his Ph.D. in Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology from the University of Madras, Chennai, where his thesis focused on the isolation, purification, and characterization of superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes from microalgae. He holds an M.Phil. in Botany, focusing on cholesterol oxidase production from Stenotrophomonas sp. Additionally, Dr. Kanna earned his M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Plant Biology and Biotechnology from the University of Madras, where he graduated with top honors, securing first place in his M.Sc. class.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Kanna’s professional journey spans multiple academic and research roles. He is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai. His previous roles include Project Assistant at the NEERI-CSIR Chennai Zonal Laboratory, where he contributed to soil remediation trials at a mercury-contaminated site, and Junior Research Fellow at Presidency College, where he isolated a novel strain of Botryococcus braunii for biofuel production. His experience in both academic and applied research has shaped his approach to solving complex environmental and health-related challenges.

Research Interests:

Dr. Rajesh Kanna’s research interests lie primarily in the application of Phycotechnology, focusing on the potential of macro and microalgae for bioactive compound production, including anticancer and antiviral substances. His work also includes phycoremediation, the use of algae to degrade pollutants, and the development of algae-based biotechnologies for applications in livestock feed, hydroxyapatite production, bioplastics, and antimicrobial peptides. His multidisciplinary research is aimed at advancing sustainable, eco-friendly solutions to pressing environmental and health issues.

Research Skills:

Dr. Kanna possesses a wide range of technical skills that support his diverse research in Phycotechnology. These include expertise in microalgae isolation and cultivation, including raceway pond systems and photobioreactor cultivation. He is proficient in a variety of molecular techniques, enabling him to analyze and manipulate algae at the genetic and biochemical levels. His experience also spans biotechnological applications such as biofuel production, bioplastics, antimicrobial peptide synthesis, and phycoremediation. Dr. Kanna is skilled in leading laboratory teams and projects, fostering innovation in algae-based research.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Rajesh Kanna G. has received numerous accolades for his academic and research achievements. He was honored with the Young Scientist Award at SRM-ICBEST’22, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the field of Phycotechnology. He has also earned multiple academic distinctions, including securing First Rank in his M.Sc. and receiving various endowment prizes from the University of Madras and his college. These honors reflect his commitment to academic excellence and his growing reputation in the field of plant biotechnology and Phycotechnology.