Dr. Sunny Zafar serves as an Associate Professor in the School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, with over a decade of distinguished experience in research and academia. He has been instrumental in positioning IIT Mandi as a leader in translational research on microwave-assisted manufacturing and recycling of composites, through collaborative projects with ISRO, DRDO, SERB, and leading industrial partners. His pioneering contributions to the development of innovative microwave-based manufacturing processes—integrating advanced materials research—have earned international recognition.
Dr. Zafar has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed international journal articles and delivered over 50 invited lectures. He has developed specialized MOOCs in turbine manufacturing, benefiting researchers globally. With an h-index of 28, over 2,700+ citations, and more than seven patents, several of which have been granted, he continues to advance high-impact translational research. As a reviewer for prestigious publishers including Elsevier, Wiley, and Springer, he actively contributes to the scholarly community. At IIT Mandi, he has secured several sponsored research fundings, driving innovation and expanding the frontiers of sustainable manufacturing research. He has also organized more than 10 workshops and conferences, training and benefiting over 500+ participants till date.
Letter of recommendation (LoR) is given only to those students who have spent considerable time in my lab or have received at least a B grade or a higher grade in my course.
Students seeking letters of recommendations should contact me only via email, at least one week in advance, to avoid missed deadlines, delays or disappointments.
Prospective Ph.D./M.Tech.(R) students who plan to work with me, in case they get admission at IIT Mandi, should read and understand fundamentals of composite materials and go through research articles form our group. Such students may prepare a plan of Ph.D. work and email it along their latest CV.
Office: A11.4.11, North Campus, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Kamand, Mandi-175 075
Tel: +91 1905 267 268