Somaiya Vidyavihar University recently held a national seminar focused on the evolving landscape of computational science, while also celebrating the 75th birthday of noted scientist Prof Shridhar R Gadre. The event, organised by the Centre for Excellence in Computational Science and Simulations (C2S2), brought together distinguished researchers and academics from across India and abroad.
The symposium was inaugurated in the presence of Prof Shridhar R Gadre and Prof VN Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University. It was organised in association with the Srinivasa Ramanujan Institute for Basic Sciences (SRIBS) and featured a robust programme of expert talks, panel discussions, and poster presentations from scholars representing IISER Mohali, IIT Madras, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Digital University Kerala, and international institutions from Germany and Italy.
“Computational science is no longer confined to specific domains. It plays a crucial role across various disciplines including chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering,” said Prof Pillai. “This seminar provided an excellent platform for interdisciplinary engagement and knowledge sharing at a time when integrated approaches are essential to solving complex scientific challenges.”
The event paid tribute to Prof Gadre, a pioneer in quantum chemistry whose career spans groundbreaking work in energy functionals, scalar fields, molecular clusters, and the molecular tailoring approach (MTA). MTA has enabled accurate simulations of large molecular systems using advanced quantum chemistry techniques, overcoming computational barriers previously considered insurmountable.
Prof Gadre’s academic legacy includes over 240 research publications, decades of leadership at Savitribai Phule Pune University, and the supervision of more than 20 doctoral scholars. His work has earned him multiple honours, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, election as a Fellow of the Indian National Science Academy, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indian Chemical Society.
“Prof Gadre’s lifelong commitment to science exemplifies the highest ideals of research and mentorship,” said Prof S Sivaram, Professor of Eminence at Somaiya Vidyavihar University. “This seminar was not just a tribute to his past achievements—it highlighted the enduring relevance of his ideas in shaping future scientific directions.” Through initiatives like this seminar, Somaiya Vidyavihar University continues to nurture a culture of academic excellence that values interdisciplinary research, scientific leadership, and the development of the next generation of thinkers
