Introduction

Brief Introduction

An inter- and multi-disciplinary Associate Professor based in Tirupati, India, with a strong academic foundation spanning an engineering-based B.E., a research-driven M.Tech., and a PhD in India. An ambivert by nature, he is also a passionate photographer and a lover of music, humour, and the outdoors. He lives by the personal motto: “Life is Under Construction.”

A proactive and high-performing researcher, academician, and product-oriented scientist, he is experienced in managing, streamlining, and delivering multiple high-impact R&D projects. He possesses strong project management capabilities supported by critical thinking, creativity, work ethic, resilience under pressure, excellent interpersonal skills, teamwork, and outstanding communication and organisational abilities.

As an organised researcher in Mechanical and Materials Engineering, he has extensive experience in scientific review, manuscript and report writing, preparing scientific presentations, and contributing to research grants. He is well-versed in the publication process and journal publishing standards.

Detailed Introduction

From an early fascination with mathematics and science, Ajay Kumar has built a career at the intersection of mechanical engineering, materials science, and advanced manufacturing. Beginning with a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from MITS Gwalior (M.P.) India, he developed a strong foundation in engineering principles and laboratory practice. His interest in materials and their role in modern technologies led him to pursue an M.Tech. in Materials Engineering at MANIT Bhopal (M.P.) India, in association with CSIR–AMPRI, where he gained hands-on experience in advanced materials processing.

To deepen his understanding of materials behavior within complex manufacturing systems, he pursued a PhD at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore (K.A.) India. His doctoral work on polymer-derived metal matrix composites using friction stir processing allowed him to combine analytical rigor with experimental innovation.

Motivated to broaden his research impact, he moved to the United States for postdoctoral training at Washington State University and the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee USA. There, he worked on projects funded by major U.S. agencies—including NSF, MDA, and DOE—on intermetallic growth, nanocomposites, drag-reducing surfaces, corrosion-resistant alloying, and sustainable material systems.

He currently serves as an Associate Professor at IIT Tirupati (A.P) India, where he continues to integrate mechanical and materials engineering with practical applications. His strengths include leading multi-disciplinary R&D projects, scientific communication, grant writing, and mentoring students.

Beyond academia, Ajay values creativity and balance. Photography, music, humour, nature, philosophy, and global affairs play an important role in shaping his perspective. Guided by the belief that “Life is Under Construction,” he approaches both science and life as evolving, dynamic processes.