Prof. Udaya Prakash Nyayiru Kannaian is an eminent academician, researcher, and innovator with over 25 years of experience which includes 17 years in Academics and 8 years of industrial experience in the field of Biotechnology. Currently serving as a Professor at Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS), India, he has made pioneering contributions across multiple interdisciplinary domains including Aerobiology, Microbial Biotechnology, Herbal Biotechnology, Bioremediation, and Bio-Nanotechnology.

He began his scientific journey with a Master’s in Botany from the University of Madras, where he secured the 11th Rank, followed by his tenure as a Junior Research Fellow under the Ministry of Environment and Forests for the All India Coordinated Project on “Aeroallergens and Human Health.” His commitment to advancing biological sciences is reflected in his long-standing career dedicated to research, teaching, and technology development.

Research & Innovations

Prof. Udaya Prakash has made groundbreaking discoveries and designed novel technologies in diverse areas of applied biotechnology:

• Aerobiology: Designed micro air samplers and multi-utility air sampling devices for UAV-based air monitoring.

• Microbial Biotechnology: Identified thermophilic and effective microorganisms for biowaste management and defined Thermophilous fungi (2003).

• Herbal Biotechnology: Developed extractor cum dryer and hybrid condensers for efficient herbal extraction.

• Bioremediation: Innovated biological methods for the removal of dyes and heavy metals through phytoremediation.

• Bio-Nanotechnology: Developed nanosensors for airborne ammonia detection and defined the concepts of Biosoot (2019) and BioAeronanosol (2023).

He has been granted six patents, showcasing his significant contribution to the development of sustainable biotechnological tools and environmental solutions.

Publications & Citations

Prof. Udaya Prakash has an exceptional record of over 105 research publications in reputed journals, 42 conference proceedings, and has presented more than 180 papers (103 national and 78 international).

His scientific work has received high global recognition with impressive citation metrics:

• Scopus: 1310 citations | H-index: 13 | i10-index: 19

• ResearchGate: 2232 citations | H-index: 19 | i10-index: 35

• Google Scholar: 2264 citations | H-index: 19 | i10-index: 35

He has also authored books titled “Indoor Molds – Isolation and Identification” and “Tape Lifting: Monitoring Indoor Molds.”

Grants, Projects & Research Leadership

Prof. Udaya Prakash has successfully executed numerous funded research projects, with several grants awarded by national and international agencies, including:

• Airborne Pollen Monitoring of Chennai City – ₹1.25 lakh

• Development of Nanosensor for Airborne Ammonia – ₹1.5 lakh

• Metabarcoding of Soil Fungi – ₹8.76 lakh (USD 10,500)

• Diversity of Mycorrhizal Fungi from Sathyamangalam Forest Range – ₹8.7 lakh

He has guided 10 Ph.D. scholars, organized 21 workshops and scientific programs, and served as an invited speaker, resource person, or chairperson in over 126 academic events.

Awards & Academic Distinctions

Prof. Udaya Prakash has received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions, including:

• PH Gregory Award (2001) – Indian Aerobiologists & Indian College of Allergy and Applied Immunology

• Best Educationalist Award (2012) and Young Scientist Award (2013) – Education Today Publications

• Inspirational Associate Professor Award (2019) – DST, Government of India

• Shome Memorial Lecture Award (2021) – Mycologists Society of India

• Overall Best Paper Presenter Award (2021) – INTI International University, Malaysia

• International Research Scientist Excellence Award (2025) – AGRI INNOVA

These accolades reflect his outstanding contributions to research, innovation, and academic leadership in life sciences.

Professional Memberships & Fellowships

He holds seven memberships/fellowships in reputed learned societies, underscoring his deep involvement in academic and professional communities promoting biotechnology and environmental sciences.

Eligibility for Lifetime Achievement Award

In recognition of his exceptional academic leadership, groundbreaking research innovations, patents, global recognition through citations, mentorship of scholars, and enduring service to biotechnology education and research,
Prof. Udaya Prakash Nyayiru Kannaian is eminently eligible for the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from Scientific Laurels.

This honor aptly acknowledges his lifelong dedication to advancing scientific knowledge, innovation, and sustainable biotechnological practices that continue to inspire future generations of researchers and educators