Post by RMIT-AcSIR Joint Research Program

Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Pankaj Maurya (RMIT School of Engineering, Class of 2026) 🎓 Coming from a small rural village in Bhadohi district, Uttar Pradesh (known as the "Carpet City"), India, with limited access to advanced education, Dr Maurya pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Botany and Zoology, followed by a Master’s in Environmental Science where he secured first rank and received the DST INSPIRE Fellowship for his PhD at Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR). A turning point in his life came when he was selected for the RMIT-AcSIR Joint Research Program. This opportunity transformed not only his research journey but also his perspective on global collaboration. One of the most emotional moments was leaving his village for his first international flight to Australia ✈️. As he looked out the window, he realised he was not just crossing countries but stepping into a new chapter, a moment that still reminds him of his roots and purpose. During his PhD, he focused on restoring post mining ecosystems, particularly improving soil biological activity in degraded coal mining landscapes 🌱. At CSIR - CENTRAL INSTITUTE OF MINING AND FUEL RESEARCH (CIMFR), he developed strong expertise in fieldwork, including soil and plant sampling, along with laboratory analysis 🔬. His time at RMIT University added a global dimension to his research through exposure to advanced analytical techniques, world class facilities and interdisciplinary collaboration. Working on microbial diversity and soil health using modern tools strengthened his scientific approach and ability to link research with real world environmental challenges. A significant milestone during his PhD was attending the EGU General Assembly 2025 in Vienna, Austria through the RMIT STEM HDR research funds. Presenting at an international platform and engaging with leading researchers was a transformative experience that greatly enhanced his confidence and global outlook 🌏. Dr Maurya is deeply grateful to Dr REGINALD Masto and Dr Hridesh Agarwalla at CSIR- CIMFR for building his research foundation and to Associate Prof Jorge Paz Ferreiro and Associate Prof Dane Lamb at RMIT for their mentorship and global perspective. He also sincerely thank Prof Manoj Dhar at AcSIR, Distinguished Prof Suresh Bhargava and Tae Kim at RMIT for their continued support throughout this program. Looking back, this journey from a national to an international research environment has given him academic training, confidence, resilience and a broader global perspective. His PhD journey was filled with memorable moments, especially his time in Melbourne exploring beautiful places which will remain unforgettable for life. Dr Maurya hopes future AcSIR students from backgrounds similar to his will believe no dream is out of reach. With determination, guidance and the courage to take the first step, aspirations can become reality! CSIR India RMIT Department of Civil and Infrastructure Engineering