A Legacy in Chemistry Education & Research

Dr. Ch. Prasad Rao, a seasoned Chemistry professor and former SEIAA Chairman,Telangana State combines 30+ years of expertise in organic synthesis and environmental science. His work advances research in heterocyclic compounds and natural products while mentoring future scientists.

Empowering Countless Chemistry Scholars Through Knowledge and Innovation

About Professor Ch. Prasad Rao

Professor Ch. Prasad Rao, an esteemed scholar in organic chemistry, completed his Ph.D. at Osmania University in Hyderabad, India, specializing in natural and synthetic heterocyclic chemistry. With an academic career spanning more than 32 years, he has been instrumental in teaching and mentoring the next generation of chemists, while also pioneering significant research in synthetic organic chemistry.

 

Career Highlights

Prof. Rao held the prestigious position of Chairman of the State Level Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) under the Pollution Control Board of Telangana. His leadership in this role helped shape environmental policies and practices within the state. His career also includes international experience as a visiting professor in Libya and Taiwan, where he contributed to research and collaborated with top institutions.\

 

Experience

Prof. Rao’s career encompasses 32 years of teaching advanced chemistry to postgraduate students and 39 years of research. His expertise spans reaction mechanisms, synthetic routes, photochemistry, and drug synthesis, and his research is marked by innovative approaches to organic synthesis.

Educational Qualifications

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry – Osmania University, Hyderabad, 1986.
Thesis: Studies on Natural and Synthetic Heterocyclic Compounds of Physiological Interest


M.Sc. in Chemistry (Organic) – Osmania University, 1980, First Division with Distinction.

Postdoctoral Work

Prof. Rao undertook postdoctoral research in Taiwan at NTU and NTHU, where he explored advanced synthesis techniques, especially for antiviral compounds and structural studies on biologically active compounds. His work involved developing synthetic routes for novel compounds with potential pharmacological applications.

Research

Research Areas

Prof. Rao’s research encompasses synthetic organic chemistry, particularly in heterocyclic chemistry and the synthesis of novel oxygen and nitrogen heterocyclic compounds. His work aims to explore the biological activities of these compounds, particularly for anticancer, antibacterial, and antiviral applications.

Research Guidance

Prof. Rao has mentored numerous Ph.D. scholars, with several successful thesis completions under his supervision. His guidance has facilitated research that contributes to both the academic community and the field of medicinal chemistry.

Key Research Contributions

Prof. Rao’s research has led to groundbreaking developments in organic synthesis, such as the preparation of flavones and chromones through innovative methods. His studies also extend to the creation of heterocycles with significant antibacterial properties and the isolation of natural compounds from medicinal plants.

Publications

Prof. Rao has published extensively in reputed journals, with research articles covering the synthesis and biological evaluation of novel heterocyclic compounds. His recent publications in the Asian Journal of Chemistry and Natural Products Research highlight his studies on anticancer and antimicrobial compounds.

 

Some of Prof. Rao’s notable research achievements include

Synthesis of 2H-tetrazole hybrids for anticancer activity.

Development of benzofuran derivatives with cross-coupling methods.

Exploration of novel cinnoline derivatives with antibacterial properties.

 

Citations & Indexing

Prof. Rao’s research articles are indexed in major databases like SciFinder and are highly cited within the field, showcasing the impact of his work on organic and medicinal chemistry.

Teaching

Prof. Rao’s teaching expertise covers a broad range of advanced topics in organic chemistry, including reaction mechanisms, molecular rearrangements, photochemistry, synthesis of drugs, green chemistry, and spectroscopy.

 

Courses Developed

He has contributed significantly to curriculum development, helping to shape the syllabus for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in organic chemistry. His influence extends to courses in synthetic chemistry and pharmaceutical studies.

 

Innovative Teaching

Prof. Rao established a specialized research lab at Nizam College and frequently organizes industrial visits to enhance students’ practical understanding of analytical techniques in chemistry. His teaching innovations encourage hands-on experience, helping students bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications.

Awards & Honors

CSIR Senior Research Fellowship (1986), UGC Senior Research Fellowship (1983), and UGC Junior Research Fellowship (1981).

Research Associate-ship awarded by the Indian government in 1987.

Recognized as Professor of Chemistry at Osmania University in 2006.

 

Professional Honors

Prof. Rao has been a valued subject expert in various academic and selection boards, advising on faculty appointments, Ph.D. selections, and UGC fellowship awards. His role as an examiner and curriculum advisor demonstrates his dedication to academic excellence.

Contributions To Academia

Prof. Rao’s contributions include evaluating Ph.D. theses, setting exam papers, and acting as a viva-voce examiner for doctoral candidates. His active involvement in syllabus framing and revision ensures that academic standards remain rigorous and current.

 

Conferences and Seminars

As a speaker and resource person, Prof. Rao has presented his research at national and international conferences, including the American Chemical Society’s National Meeting, seminars in Taiwan, and numerous workshops in India.

 

Corporate & Community Engagement

Beyond academia, Prof. Rao engages in outreach activities like counseling students in rural areas and educating communities on public health issues. His close ties with pharmaceutical companies facilitate industry visits, providing students with practical insights into analytical instrumentation and research methodologies.