Ratna Naik

Ratna Naik is a Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Wayne State University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. She has held multiple leadership roles, including Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs and Academic Personnel since 2016 and Chair of the Physics and Astronomy Department from 2005 to 2015.

• Ph.D. in Physics, West Virginia University (1982)

Her research focuses on experimental condensed matter physics, with expertise in magnetic, ferroelectric, and multiferroic properties of nanomaterials; optical and electronic properties of wide bandgap semiconductors; and electrochemical properties for energy storage. She has developed courses in spectroscopy and material characterization techniques.

Recent publications highlight her work on magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical applications, multiferroic nanocomposites, and Li-ion battery materials, emphasizing synthesis methods and performance optimization.

• Richard Barber Faculty Recognition Award - 2016
• Distinguished Graduate Faculty Award - 2013
• Outstanding Graduate Mentor Award - 2008
• President’s Research Enhancement Award - 2003
• Outstanding Scholarship Achievements - 2000
• College of Science Teaching Award - 1999
• President's Award for Excellence in Teaching - 1995
• Career Development Award Chair - 1996
• Faculty Research Award - 1990

Her work spans biomedical applications of Raman spectroscopy, superparamagnetic nanoparticles for theranostics, and electrochemical systems like Li-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and solid electrolytes. She has over 200 publications and has mentored numerous graduate students.