The Faculty Research Awards 2026 have recognized outstanding researchers in computer science from the International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIIT Hyderabad), and Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology. These awards highlight significant contributions in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.
- Ashok Kumar Das from IIIT Hyderabad received the award under the public category.
- Neeraj Kumar from Thapar Institute was recognized under the private category.
- Both researchers have made notable advances in cybersecurity, AI, and related fields.
- The award includes a citation and a cash prize of Rs 50,000.
- The awards were presented by Professor G D Yadav, a prominent Indian engineering scientist.
Who is Ashok Kumar Das and what are his research contributions?
Prof. Ashok Kumar Das is an Associate Professor at the Centre for Security, Theory and Algorithmic Research at IIIT Hyderabad. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Kharagpur. His expertise includes cryptography, cybersecurity, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and AI/ML security.
He has authored over 320 research papers and earned several prestigious recognitions such as the Web of Science Highly Cited Researcher award and the Research.com Computer Science in India Leader Award. Additionally, he is listed among Stanford University’s Top 2% scientists worldwide.
Most of his scholarly work (75.7%) is affiliated with IIIT Hyderabad, with contributions from Korea University, Old Dominion University, and other institutions.
What are Neeraj Kumar’s achievements in computer science?
Prof. Neeraj Kumar serves as the Dean of Digital Content Transformation and is the Professor and Head of the Department of Computer Science & Engineering at Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala. His research focuses on Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, cybersecurity, and emerging digital technologies.
He has published extensively in international journals, authored and edited books, and received several prestigious research awards, including recognition among the world’s top 1% highly-cited researchers. His work also involves collaborations with industry in AI, cybersecurity, and smart infrastructure.
Thapar Institute accounts for 54.8% of his scholarly output, followed by the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies and Asia University in Taiwan.
What does the Faculty Research Award include and who presented it?
The award includes a citation and a cash prize of Rs 50,000. It was presented by Professor G D Yadav, the Founding Vice-Chancellor of the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) Mumbai and an Emeritus Professor of Eminence. Prof. Yadav is a leading Indian engineering scientist with international recognition in catalysis, green chemistry, chemical engineering, and sustainable technologies.
He holds prestigious positions such as President of the Indian Chemical Society and Vice-President of the Indian National Science Academy. Prof. Yadav is also a fellow of ten Indian and foreign science academies and is noted as the only Indian fellow in the Canadian Academy of Engineering.
Why are these awards important for computer science research in India?
The Faculty Research Awards 2026 highlight the significant contributions of Indian researchers in cutting-edge fields like cybersecurity, AI, and digital technologies. Recognizing scholars from both public and private institutions encourages innovation and collaboration across academia and industry.
These awards also bring attention to the growing impact of Indian research on global science and technology advancements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What fields do the awarded researchers specialize in?
A: Ashok Kumar Das specializes in cryptography, cybersecurity, blockchain, IoT, and AI/ML security. Neeraj Kumar focuses on Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, cybersecurity, and emerging digital technologies.
Q: What institutions do the awardees represent?
A: Ashok Kumar Das is from IIIT Hyderabad, a public institution. Neeraj Kumar is from Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, a private institution.
Q: Who presented the Faculty Research Awards 2026?
A: The awards were presented by Professor G D Yadav, a distinguished Indian engineering scientist and academic leader.
