DV Khakhar obtained his BTech (1981) degree from IIT Delhi and PhD (1986) from the University of Massachusetts, with specialization in chemical engineering, particularly in fluid and particle mechanics and polymers. Presently he is Professor and Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT-Bombay, Mumbai.

Academic and Research Achievements: Khakhar's most outstanding contribution has been the pioneering work concerned with polymerization of rod-like polymers. He was first to theoretically address the problem of diffusional limitations and flow in such polymerization systems, and his experimental studies have led to the discovery of the role of shearing in increasing the rate of polymerization. The results have important implications for the design of polymerization reactors for aramid polymers. Khakhar has made original contributions to the understanding of granular flow and mixing. Of particular note are the recent theory for granular segregation in rotating cylinders and the elucidation of chaotic mixing and pattern formation in non-circular rotating mixers. Khakhar has carried out research in polyurethane foams focused on the detailed mathematical modelling and experimental study of the foam formation process and the role of foam structure and formulation in the determination of mechanical properties. The work has practical implications for processing as well as materials development. He has published over 50 research papers in refereed journals, and contributed chapters in 2 books. Khakhar has guided 28 MTech and 15 PhD students.

Other Contributions: Khakhar has served on the boards of Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers and Materials Research Society of India.

Awards and Honours: Khakhar has received several awards and honours that include Amar Dyechem Award by Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (1993), Fellow of Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore (1996), SS Bhatnagar Prize (1997), Swarnajayanti Fellowship of DST (1998), Herdillia Award by Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (1999), Millenium Gold Medal by Indian Science Congress (2000), Fellowship of the Indian National Academy of Engineering (2001), and Excellence in Teaching Award by IIT, Bombay (2001).