Dr. Rakesh Singh Negi | Nuclear Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

PNG Govt PG college Ramnagar | India

Dr. Rakesh Singh Negi is a dedicated nuclear chemist and researcher at the Department of Chemistry, P.N.G. Govt. PG College, Ramnagar, Nainital, specializing in environmental radioactivity, radiation detection, and water quality assessment. His expertise lies in applying advanced nuclear instrumentation such as scintillation counters, radon detectors, LED fluorimetry, and ICP-MS to evaluate groundwater quality, radiation exposure, and heavy metal contamination in the Kumaun Himalaya. His research contributes to radiological risk assessment, baseline data generation, and sustainable water resource management, with a strong emphasis on environmental safety and human health. He integrates experimental nuclear chemistry with applied environmental studies, advancing knowledge in ionizing radiation, radon exposure, uranium distribution, and dose assessment in natural water systems. In addition to research, Dr. Negi actively engages in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate chemistry, incorporating his research insights into the classroom. His work reflects commitment to advancing nuclear chemistry for societal and environmental well-being.

Profile:

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Education:

Dr. Rakesh Singh Negi pursued his educational journey at Kumaun University, Nainital, Uttarakhand, India, building a strong foundation in chemistry and environmental sciences. He completed his Ph.D. in Chemistry  under the guidance of Prof. Jagmohan Singh Negi, with a thesis titled “A Comprehensive Study on Water Quality Parameters and Natural Radioactivity in Drinking Water of Urban Part of Kumaun Himalaya, India.” His doctoral research focused on integrating water quality assessment with natural radioactivity studies, combining nuclear instrumentation and environmental monitoring for risk evaluation. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned his Master of Science degree in Organic Chemistry , where he developed strong theoretical and practical knowledge of advanced chemistry concepts. He also completed his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Zoology, and Botany , laying the interdisciplinary foundation for his environmental research.

Experience:

Dr. Rakesh Singh Negi has gained significant academic and research experience through his role as a faculty member at P.N.G. Govt. PG College, Ramnagar, Nainital, where he teaches undergraduate and postgraduate chemistry courses. He integrates his active research in nuclear and environmental chemistry into classroom instruction, enriching students’ learning with practical applications and field-based insights. He guides students in laboratory practices, research projects, and seminars, fostering a hands-on learning environment. His professional expertise includes extensive field sampling, environmental surveys, geospatial documentation, and laboratory-based radiation and water chemistry analysis. He has presented his findings at multiple international and national conferences, including forums on radiation awareness, environmental risk assessment, and sustainable water management. His research collaborations with experts across India have resulted in impactful publications in reputed journals, covering topics such as uranium contamination, radon exposure, and heavy metal analysis in groundwater. His career reflects a balance of teaching excellence, research innovation, and academic contribution.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Rakesh Singh Negi has earned recognition through his impactful contributions to nuclear and environmental chemistry, particularly in the domain of groundwater safety and radiation risk assessment. His academic achievements include securing a Ph.D. from Kumaun University with a highly specialized thesis on water quality and natural radioactivity in the Kumaun Himalaya, which received commendation for its interdisciplinary scope and societal relevance. He has been invited to present research findings at notable national and international conferences, such as the International Conference on Radiation Awareness and Detection in Natural Environment (RADNET) and conferences focusing on aerosols, climate change, and environmental sciences, reflecting the significance of his research. His participation in faculty development programs, including a prestigious workshop at Ramjas College, University of Delhi, further highlights his commitment to professional growth. Through his innovative use of advanced nuclear instrumentation and contributions to environmental safety, Dr. Negi has established himself as an emerging voice in environmental radiochemistry.

Research Focus:

Dr. Rakesh Singh Negi’s research focus lies at the intersection of nuclear chemistry, environmental radioactivity, and groundwater quality, with a particular emphasis on the Kumaun Himalaya region. He investigates naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM), especially radon and uranium, in drinking water sources and evaluates associated radiological and chemical risks. His expertise in advanced instrumentation, including scintillation counters, RnDuo radon detectors, LED fluorimeters, ICP-MS, and UV–Vis spectrophotometry, enables precise detection and quantification of radioactive isotopes and heavy metals. His studies aim to establish baseline data for environmental radiation, assess dose exposures, and propose protective strategies for public health. He also explores the co-contamination of groundwater by toxic elements, integrating chemical and radiological assessments to evaluate carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks. His research outcomes contribute to sustainable water management, environmental protection, and awareness of radiological safety, making his work highly relevant to policymakers, environmentalists, and communities dependent on groundwater resources.

Publication:

Title: Groundwater Quality Assessment in the Foothills of the Kumaun Himalaya, India
Year: 2025

Title: Study of radiation exposure to radon in groundwater using scintillation-based RnDuo technique: A statistical analysis for risk assessment
Year: 2025

Title: LED fluorimetric analysis of uranium in potable groundwater and associated health concerns
Year: 2024

Title: Distribution and risk estimation of potentially toxic elements in potable groundwater of Kumaun Himalaya, India
Year: 2024

Conclusion:

Dr. Rakesh Singh Negi is a highly capable and impactful researcher whose contributions in radiation protection, environmental radioactivity, and water chemistry significantly advance sustainable environmental management. His strong publication record, technical proficiency, and integration of research into teaching make him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With further international collaboration and diversification into emerging interdisciplinary fields, he is poised to become a leading figure in environmental and nuclear chemistry research, making his recognition both timely and well-justified.