Delhi University Professor Diwan S Rawat Bags Top Indian Science Honour
In a big win for Indian science, Professor Diwan S Rawat from Delhi University has earned the prestigious Fellow of the Indian National Science Academy (FNA) title. This award stands as the highest recognition for scientists in India, celebrating outstanding contributions to research and innovation.
Currently a Senior Professor of Chemistry at Delhi University, Rawat also serves as Vice Chancellor of Kumaun University in Uttarakhand. His impressive track record includes over 175 research papers published in top journals and nine patents that highlight his groundbreaking work.
The Indian National Science Academy picked Rawat for his stellar achievements in Medicinal Chemistry, especially his pioneering efforts in developing drugs for Parkinson’s disease treatment. Early in his career, he sharpened his skills with postdoctoral research at Indiana University and Purdue University in the USA.
Speaking to , Rawat shared exciting news: A key molecule from his lab has successfully passed Phase I human clinical trials for Parkinson’s. Remarkably, this marks the first time an Indian academic institute secured US FDA approval for such a molecule. Before joining Delhi University in 2003, he worked as an Assistant Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) in Mohali.
Hailing from Uttarakhand, Rawat becomes the second Chemistry professor from the state to receive this honour. The first was Dr DS Bhakuni, his PhD supervisor, who got the FNA in 1979. Rawat’s lab isn’t stopping there—he revealed two more promising molecules in preclinical stages: one targeting autoimmune diseases and another for dementia treatment.
Rawat’s research impact shines through strong metrics—his papers have racked up over 7,750 citations, with an h-index of 52 and i10 index of 139. He has guided 28 PhD students, shaping the next generation of scientists.
As Vice Chancellor, Rawat has driven major reforms at Kumaun University. He secured Rs 100 crore under the MERU scheme, a DST PAIR grant, and 26.4 acres of land at Patwadangar for a new MERU campus. Even with his busy role, he makes time to teach classes regularly, showing his passion for education.
Rawat’s journey started strong: He earned his master’s from Kumaun University, Nainital, in 1993, topping the university and receiving a merit certificate. He completed his PhD in Medicinal Chemistry at the Central Drug Research Institute in Lucknow. Joining Delhi University’s Department as a Reader in July 2003, he rose to Professor in March 2010.
This FNA fellowship not only honours Rawat’s dedication to drug development and Parkinson’s research but also inspires young scientists across India to push boundaries in medicinal chemistry.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
