Naba Kishore Ray obtained his PhD (1968), Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur specializing in theoretical chemistry. He served as Professor (also Chairman), Department of Chemistry, University of Delhi.

Academic and Research Achievements: Ray employed the simple molecular orbital theory to study the properties and molecular electronic structures, electron spin resonance hyperfine splittings and transition states of hydroboration and diboration reactions. He modified the FSGO model of Lewis and Langmuir by introducing various model potentials to simulate the core. The modification in conjunction with the fragment orbital approach has made the model suitable for the study of larger systems. Ray’s most interesting work is the molecular orbital study of surface-adsorbate interaction. He predicted the behaviour of CO on the surfaces of pure Pt, Pt anode and cathodic Pt (i.e. Pt with pre-adsorbed K) using the simple molecular orbital method.

Other contributions: Ray was the Founder Director, Centre for Professional Development in Higher Education, University of Delhi. He was Member of the editorial board of the Indian Journal of Chemistry.

Awards and Honours: Ray is a recipient of the SS Bhatnagar Prize (1983). He is a Fellow, National Academy of Sciences (India), Allahabad and International Society of Quantum Biology and & Pharmacolgy.