Prof. (Dr.) Sharad Sakharam Sankhe, an esteemed Indian national, is a distinguished author, academician, and luminary in the field of chemical sciences, whose prolific career has significantly shaped the landscape of chemistry education and research in India. With a remarkable tenure spanning over three decades, he has established himself as a leading figure in inorganic and analytical chemistry, renowned for his intellectual rigor, innovative research, and unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of scientists.
Currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Mumbai and as Vice Principal at S S & L S Patkar College of Arts & Science and V P Varde College of Commerce & Economics, Goregaon, Mumbai, Prof. Sankhe embodies the ideal of a scholar educator. His multifaceted contributions—ranging from groundbreaking research and authorship to academic leadership and mentorship—have earned him widespread respect within the academic community and beyond. This book, Modern Inorganic Chemistry: Principles and Applications, reflects his deep expertise, pedagogical insight, and passion for advancing chemical sciences, offering readers a comprehensive resource that bridges foundational principles with cutting-edge developments in the field.
Prof. (Dr.) Sankhe’s academic journey is marked by exceptional achievements and a steadfast dedication to excellence. He completed his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Chemistry, Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees at the prestigious University of Mumbai, one of India’s leading institutions for higher education. During his M.Sc. program, he distinguished himself by securing the second rank in the university, a testament to his intellectual prowess and commitment to academic excellence. His doctoral research further solidified his expertise in chemistry, focusing on advanced topics that have contributed to the broader understanding of chemical systems and their applications. This rigorous academic foundation, combined with his training in education, has equipped him with the unique ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging content, making him an effective educator and author. His scholarly journey reflects a deep rooted passion for learning and discovery, which continues to inspire his work in both teaching and research.
With over 32 years of teaching experience, Prof. (Dr.) Sankhe has profoundly impacted the lives of countless students, fostering a passion for chemistry and guiding them toward academic and professional success. As a mentor, he has supervised six Ph.D. candidates to the successful completion of their doctoral degrees, providing them with expert guidance, critical feedback, and encouragement to explore innovative research questions. His mentorship extends beyond the doctoral level, as he has taught and inspired generations of undergraduate and postgraduate students at Patkar-Varde College, helping them develop a deep understanding of chemical principles and their real-world applications. His teaching philosophy emphasizes clarity, critical thinking, and the integration of theoretical and practical knowledge, ensuring that students are well-prepared to tackle challenges in academia, industry, and beyond. Prof. Sankhe’s dedication to education is complemented by his active involvement in academic and administrative activities, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping curricula, fostering research initiatives, and promoting a culture of academic excellence at both the college and university levels.
As a prolific author and researcher, Prof. (Dr.) Sankhe has made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, evidenced by his authorship of nine textbooks that serve as authoritative resources for students and educators worldwide. These texts cover a wide range of topics in inorganic chemistry, offering clear explanations, practical examples, and insights into emerging trends, making them invaluable for learners at all levels. In addition to his books, he holds three patents, reflecting his innovative approach to solving practical challenges through chemical research. His scholarly output includes over 50 research papers published in prestigious national and international journals, addressing critical topics such as coordination chemistry, catalysis, and sustainable chemical processes. These publications have advanced the scientific community’s understanding of complex chemical systems and have inspired further research in these areas. Prof. Sankhe’s active engagement in academic governance, including his role as Vice Principal, has further amplified his impact, as he has championed initiatives to enhance research infrastructure, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and promote sustainable practices in chemical education and industry. His enduring contributions as an educator, researcher, and leader continue to inspire students, colleagues, and the broader scientific community, making this book a reflection of his lifelong commitment to advancing the frontiers of chemical sciences.