Dr. ir. Rachith Shanivarasanthe Nithyananda Kumar

Rachith S N's academic voyage began in India, where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees before venturing to the University of Hasselt (Uhasselt) in pursuit of his doctoral thesis under the mentorship of Professor Wim Deferme. Prior to his time at Uhasselt, he served as an assistant professor at the esteemed Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology in Bangalore, India(2014-2018). During his doctoral research(2018-2023), he made a significant impact by focusing on improving the efficiency of Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) through innovative techniques involving roll-to-roll compatible spray coating and various nanoparticles.
Notably, during his doctoral journey, Rachith invented and patented a groundbreaking solution deposition technique capable of applying ultra-thin films (measuring less than 15 nanometers) over extensive surfaces. This innovation held immense promise for various applications such as organic and inorganic optoelectronics, batteries, and biomedical devices. As his research reached its zenith, Rachith's exceptional dedication and talent led to him securing a prestigious research grant from the Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (FWO), enabling him to embark on a nine-month (2022-2023) research endeavor at the University of Colorado, Boulder, under the guidance of Professor Sean Shaheen. During this period, he delved into the world of plasmonic nanoparticles, exploring their potential to enhance the optoelectronic properties of organic and perovskite thin films.
His research areas include solution-processable thin films (Fabrication, characterization, and application) and plasmonic nanoparticles for organic and perovskite thin films.

ORCID

Google scholar

LinkedIn