Experts stress importance of chemistry to sustainability research

Experts participating in a symposium reiterated the importance of chemistry in sustainability, advanced materials, and energy-related research.

Addressing the recent international symposium on ‘Emerging Trends in Chemical Sciences (ISETCS–2026)’, P. Prakash Babu, Vice-Chancellor, who delivered the presidential address, outlined the growing global need for interdisciplinary research and emphasised the pivotal role of chemists in addressing contemporary scientific, technological, and societal challenges.

The event, hosted by the Department of Chemistry, Pondicherry University, brought together academicians, researchers, and students from India and abroad to deliberate on recent advances and emerging directions in the chemical sciences.

K. Tharanikkarasu, Director of Studies, and Sibnath Deb, Dean of School of Physical, Chemical and Applied Sciences, highlighted the importance of chemistry in sustainability, advanced materials, and energy-related research.

D. Basavaiah, leading chemist and INSA Senior Scientist at University of Hyderabad, in his keynote address, outlined current expectations of chemists across disciplines.

M. Bakthadoss, Chairman of ISETCS–2026 and Head of the Department of Chemistry, Pondicherry University, also spoke.

On the occasion, the Vice-Chancellor and other dignitaries released the Book of Abstracts. The technical sessions featured plenary lectures by eminent scientists, such as Garry Hanan (Université de Montréal, Canada), I. I. N. Namboothiri (IIT Bombay), Mihaela Cibian (Université du Québec, Canada), and Kiran K. Pulukuri (IISER Tirupati).

The lectures shared insights on contemporary research areas, such as Baylis – Hillman chemistry, natural product chemistry, advanced catalytic methodologies, coordination and organometallic chemistry, and innovative strategies for the synthesis of complex molecules, a press note said.

A poster presentation segment served as an engaging forum for young researchers and students to showcase their research outcomes and interact with experts in the field.