The Genesis:

“Centre of Excellence in Nanoscience and Technology for the Development of Sensors” started towards the end of 2018 at Berhampur University with funding from OHEPEE, Department of Higher Education, Govt. of Odisha. The project is sanctioned for five years with a funding of Rs. 300 lakh. Dr. N. K. Sahoo, Raja Ramanna Fellow, Distinguished Scientist and former Associate Director Physics group, BARC, Mumbai, has been appointed as the mentor of this centre to monitor its  progress. Dr. S. K. Tripathy, Professor P.G. Department of Physics, is the coordinator of this Centre.”

Objectives:
  • To cater to the needs of our society with low cost optical sensors for healthcare, environmental, and food security applications by introducing specific design engineering and suitable nanomaterials.
  • To witness multidisciplinary research activities.
  • To support experimental facilities and services in nano science and technology for the students and teachers of Odisha
Significant Achievements:
  • Created facilities for the synthesis, characterization of nano materials and sensor design.
  • Twenty eight numbers of research publications.
  • Three patents are filed from the centre.
  • A low cost HbA1c detection kit and zirconium phosphate based nano composite for industry waste water treatment have been developed.
  • The proof of concept of a non invasive HbA1c measurement prototype has been verified

Societal Impact:

HbA1c detection is the test used to check for diabetes. CoENSTds has designed low-cost holographic microscopy for HbA1c detection to improve healthcare outcomes, increase diabetes awareness, and contribute to socio-economic development. The low-cost design will help more people find out if they have diabetes early on and get the right treatment sooner. By making the test affordable, doctors and clinics can offer it to more people, which will lead to better health care. This design can also bring positive changes to the community by encouraging new ideas, creating jobs, and inspiring more innovation in the future.Designing new nano materials for industry effluent has significant societal impacts. Those materials help mitigate the harmful effects of industrial waste on the environment and public health. By enhancing the efficiency of effluent treatment processes, they minimize pollution, protect the environment, and preserve natural resources. Additionally, the use of these nano materials promotes safer water sources, preventing the spread of water borne diseases and ensuring the wellbeing of society. We, at CoE, designed and tested zirconium phosphate based nano composites for the aforesaid purpos.

One of the objectives of this CoE is to build capacity in nanoscience and technology for teachers and students in the backward districts of southern Odisha. This can transform education and open doors to better opportunities. By training teachers and empowering students with knowledge in these fields, it bridges educational gaps, promotes inclusivity, and inspires innovation, leading to a more empowered and prosperous society.

By providing training and resources to the teachers, they can acquire the knowledge and skills needed to effectively teach nano science and technology to their students. This empowers teachers to deliver quality education, ensuring that students receive valuable insights and exposure to these cutting-edge fields.

Moreover, the students in the backward district are equipped with nanoscience and technology education, which opens up new possibilities for their future. They gain access to knowledge and practical skills that can lead to better career prospects and economic opportunities, even in underprivileged areas.