Introduction

Dr. Ranjit De is an innovative researcher who has received foundational training in polymer science, specifically exploring the physicochemical properties of polyelectrolytes in solution phase. However, he has since ventured into the realm of developing advanced nanomaterials for smart healthcare, polymeric nanoparticles for drug delivery, light-responsive nanomaterials for bioimaging, etc. His motivation stems from the conviction that revolutionary technologies can arise when different research areas converge.

Drug Delivery: One of his notable inventions is a versatile nanocarrier capable of loading and delivering sensitive therapeutics with protein-like properties, while also safeguarding them from degradation caused by heat and enzymes. This technology paves the way to negate the requirement of refrigeration otherwise required for the protection of proteinaceous therapeutics, e.g., vaccines, as the nature does. Consequently, it offers a solution to the challenges associated with transporting sensitive therapeutic materials to remote areas of developing countries lacking refrigeration infrastructure. These significant findings were featured on the cover page of a science journal published by the prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry.

Carbon Quantum Dots: In another recent project, Dr. De devised a simple, rapid, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly method to create nitrogen-enriched carbon quantum dots using a readily available microwave oven. These zero-dimensional nanomaterials exhibited excellent solubility in both aqueous and organic environments, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. These include the development of invisible ink, light-emitting polymeric molds, long-lasting stability on cellulose papers, finger imprinting, metal ion detection, pH sensing, ROS sensing, and bioimaging/drug delivery. Moreover, when these fluorescent graphitic carbon dots were tested on human neuroblastoma cells, they demonstrated exceptional cell viability, reaching approximately 100%. The groundbreaking nature of this work was acknowledged by its selection for highlighting on the cover page of a journal published by the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Blood Glucose Sensing: In one of his recent projects, he has designed smart sensing materials loaded on polymeric microneedles for monitoring blood-glucose from the interstitial fluid. The system has been integrated to wireless smart display system with a future application in smart devices, e.g., smart phone, watch, etc.

Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering: Dr. De also bears expertise in fabricating molecule sensor using the array of noble metal nanostructures. Employing the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), the detection of such molecules has been highly successful even when they were present in extremely low concentrations. 

Awards and Achievements: Dr. De's contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he received the esteemed 'J. K. Mittal' award for delivering the best oral presentation on his doctoral research from the Indian Society for Surface Science and Technology. His work has resulted in the publication of over 32 research papers and several book chapters to date, and researchers worldwide are actively utilizing his technologies. Some of his works are published in journals with high impact factors, such as, Advanced Science (17.5), Advances in Colloids and interface Science (IF 15.6), Biomaterials (IF 14), Carbohydrate Polymers (IF 11.2), etc. while some are highlighted on the fron cover page of journal by Royal Society of Chemistry.

Goal: Furthermore, Dr. De's overarching goal is to seamlessly integrate nanomaterials into biological systems, introducing functionalities that surpass the limitations of biology itself. By achieving this objective, he aims to transcend our biological boundaries and enable novel applications of nanomaterials in diverse biological contexts.

Personal Statement: His objective is to be enriched with academic excellences through interdisciplinary research that supports proficiency to compete global challenges beyond the fields of nanotechnology, chemistry, biology, and physics to yield purpose driven discovery for societal benefits. He is inquisitive, fun-loving, and always ready to assist and collaborate. He believes “Interdisciplinary research is the future of science, and the measure of success is its real-life impact”.