Nikku Madhusudhan

Nikku Madhusudhan is a Professor of Astrophysics and Exoplanetary Science at the Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge. His research focuses on exoplanets, atmospheres, interiors, formation mechanisms, habitability, biosignatures, and hycean worlds.

• Education: PhD (MIT, 2009), MS (MIT, 2004), B. Tech (IIT-BHU, 2002)

Research Interests: His work explores exoplanetary systems, particularly hycean worlds, atmospheric characterization of temperate sub-Neptunes, photochemical modeling, and biosignature detection using JWST and ground-based instruments.

Recent Publications: His 2025-2024 studies investigate water-rich interiors in K2-18 b, sulfur chemistry in exoplanet atmospheres, convection models for sub-Neptunes, and biosignature prospects on hycean worlds, alongside instrumental developments for ELT and JWST.

• Awards:
  • 2019 MERAC Prize in Theoretical Astrophysics
  • 2019 Pilkington Prize for Excellence in Teaching
  • 2016 IUPAP Young Scientist Medal
  • 2014 Vainu Bappu Gold Medal
  • 2011 YCAA Prize Fellowship