My research interest centers on setting up modern femtosecond spectroscopic techniques and use them to investigate ultrafast structural dynamics and interactions in bio(molecular) systems. We have explored heterogeneity, picosecond dynamics and viscosity-decoupling in deep eutectic solvents (a new class of designer solvents) and other complex media using ultrafast fluorescence spectroscopy. In recent years, I designed and built ultrafast 2-dimensional infrared (2DIR) spectrometer (an optical analog to 2D NMR having femtosecond resolution), terahertz time-domain (THz-TDS) spectrometer and Sum Frequency Generation (SFG) spectrometer to study structure and dynamics of DNA, lipid and ionic liquids. We have investigated the role of electric field interaction at bio-interface by studying the fluctuating electric field at the surface of native DNA using ultrafast 2DIR spectroscopy. We have also studied the sensitivity of biomolecular vibrations to electric filed exerted by hydration environment and role of Coulomb coupling and anharmonic coupling.
Ph.D. positions available: Highly motivated students who are interested in pursuing PhD on 'ultrafast laser spectroscopy and chemical dynamics' are encouraged to apply online (as soon as possible) through the university link https://applications.snu.edu.in/OnlineAppPG/public/application/register/index
Candidates must have an excellent MSc in Chemistry (physical, organic, or inorganic) or Physics. NET/GATE qualification is a plus but not mandatory. Students will receive a great stipend per month and hostel accommodation will be provided.
Present Research Topics:
(i) Ultrafast electron transfer and proton transfer dynamics in complex confined environments using femtosecond and picosecond resolved fluorescence spectroscopy.
(ii) Effect of solvation on chemical reaction dynamics in confined ionic liquid environments using ultrafast fluorescence spectroscopy.
The main objectives of these research are to understand the molecular level properties of various confined environments of ionic liquids by studying photoinduced electron and proton transfer and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) processes. How the different local regions and local properties of the confined media influence the kinetics of various rate processes.
(iii) Understanding complex biomolecular processes (protein misfolding and inhibition mechanism of protein aggregation) using 2DIR (2-dimensional infrared) spectroscopic techniques. How solute-solvent interactions discern biological structure and dynamics and understanding key aspects of protein biophysics.
Teaching Area:
Advanced Molecular Spectroscopy, Quantum Mechanics and Applications of Group Theory
Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, GATE (all India rank 2nd in Chemistry)
National Eligibility Test, NET (CSIR fellowship award for JRF)
National Eligibility Test, NET (CSIR fellowship award for JRF, 2nd time)
Best Poster Award in annual meeting of S N Bose National Centre, Kolkata
SERC Fellowship, for international travel, DST, New Delhi, India