Rajiv Shekhar

Rajiv Shekhar is a Professor in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK). With a PhD from the University of California, Berkeley, his career spans over 30 years of teaching, research, and leadership in metallurgy, electrochemistry, and sustainable energy systems.

• Education:
  • PhD in Metallurgical Engineering, UC Berkeley (1988)
  • MS in Metallurgical Engineering, UC Berkeley (1985)
  • BTech in Metallurgical Engineering, IITK (1982)

His research focuses on extractive metallurgy, solar thermal energy, electrochemical processes, and environmental remediation. He has pioneered advancements in Hall-Heroult cell design, rare earth extraction, and solar energy applications for metal processing. His work bridges metallurgy with environmental engineering and energy policy.

Scientific Contributions: He has developed novel methods for electroremediation of heavy metals, electrochemical drilling, and large-scale solar thermal systems. His 15 most recent publications highlight innovations in open volumetric air receivers, neodymium electrolysis, and sustainable steel production.

Projects & Grants: Led major initiatives for MNRE, ADB, and BRNS, including establishing a solar thermal research center at IIT Jodhpur. His consultancy work spans industries like Hindalco and Shree Cements, focusing on process optimization and feasibility studies.