Mrs. Nidhya Rathinavel is currently serving as a Research Associate and Doctoral Researcher in the Department of Civil Engineering at PSG Institute of Technology and Applied Research, Coimbatore, a premier institution known for its academic excellence and strong industry linkages. With a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering and over six years of industrial experience in structural design, she brings a strong practical foundation to her research pursuits. Since commencing her research career in 2023, she has made significant strides in the field of sustainable construction materials, with a focus on eco-activated geopolymer binders, climate-resilient infrastructure, bioluminescent smart materials, carbon capture technologies, and energy fuel generation from geopolymer by-products. Her contributions have earned her the INTERNATIONAL BEST RESEARCHER AWARD 2025 under the Scopus Index International Research Awards, recognizing her impactful work in civil engineering and materials circularity. She has published multiple Scopus-indexed Q1/Q2 journal articles, presented at over ten technical conferences, and authored book chapters and books, reinforcing her academic credentials. A recipient of a prestigious competitive grant from the IIT Madras Pan India Research Competition 2024–2025, her ongoing experimental investigations focus on energy retrieval from carbon dioxide through geopolymer wall by valorising industrial and agricultural waste. She has also published many patents, centered on carbon-responsive and waste-integrated construction innovations. Her interdisciplinary engagements include academic–industry consultancy projects. Additionally, she has actively participated in Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) to enhance her expertise in digital tools, experimental methods, and collaborative research practices. Her work directly supports India’s green infrastructure mission and aligns with global sustainability efforts, especially the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to climate action, clean energy, and sustainable production, positioning her as a committed researcher driving the next generation of eco-conscious construction technologies.
