The Valliappa Foundation has introduced the Padma Bhushan Professor Rajinder Kumar Research Fellowship, awarding three doctoral researchers Rs 1 lakh annually for three years. This fellowship supports full-time PhD scholars at top-ranked Indian institutions and honors the legacy of Rajinder Kumar, a distinguished chemical engineering professor and former dean at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc).
Honoring a Pioneer in Chemical Engineering
Rajinder Kumar was a prominent figure in chemical engineering, known for his pioneering work in electrolysis, isotope enrichment, bubble formation, and multiphase systems. He earned the prestigious Dr Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize at 42 and was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2003 for his contributions to science and engineering. Kumar spent most of his career at IISc, where he also served as dean of engineering before retiring in 1998. Despite retirement, he remained actively involved with the Chemical Engineering Department until his passing in 2022.
Kumar was also an advocate for integrating traditional Indian knowledge systems like Ayurveda and Siddha with modern medical science, reflecting his broad vision for research that bridges disciplines and cultures.
Fellowship Details and Eligibility
The fellowship targets full-time PhD scholars already enrolled at institutions ranked within the top 100 by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). Each selected fellow will receive Rs 1 lakh per year for three years, intended to cover research-related expenses such as materials, academic travel, and other costs directly connected to their doctoral work.
- Three fellowships are available annually.
- Selection is conducted by an expert committee from Sona College of Technology and Vee Technologies.
- Applications for the first cycle close on September 15, 2026.
- Applicants must be pursuing research in chemical engineering or related fields.
Why This Fellowship Matters for Emerging Researchers
The fellowship not only commemorates Rajinder Kumar’s impactful career but also aims to nurture the next generation of researchers who can carry forward his commitment to rigorous, practical, and innovative scientific inquiry. Chocko Valliappa, managing trustee of the Valliappa Foundation, emphasized Kumar’s role as a mentor who combined integrity with practicality, shaping academic and institutional governance.
By providing financial support for doctoral research, the fellowship encourages scholars to focus on high-quality, application-oriented projects that can advance India’s research ecosystem. The Sona Group, which backs the fellowship, plans to expand this initiative, fostering a broader culture of research and innovation.
At the announcement event in Bengaluru, Kumar’s wife, Andal Kumar, highlighted his dedication to mentoring academics and entrepreneurs alike, underscoring the fellowship’s alignment with his vision of modernizing education and translating research into real-world solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the Rajinder Kumar Research Fellowship?
A: Full-time PhD scholars registered at institutions ranked in the top 100 by the NIRF, pursuing research related to chemical engineering, are eligible.
Q: What financial support does the fellowship provide?
A: Each selected fellow receives Rs 1 lakh per year for three years to cover research expenses like materials and academic travel.
Q: When is the application deadline for the fellowship?
A: Applications for the inaugural fellowship close on September 15, 2026.
