Dr. Avinash Kumar Agarwal stands as a beacon of scientific brilliance and visionary leadership in India’s quest for cleaner, sustainable, and more efficient energy systems. Born on 22 August 1972 in Karauli, Rajasthan, he has risen from humble beginnings to become the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jodhpur, a globally respected academic, and one of India’s foremost experts in mechanical engineering, internal combustion engines, alternative fuels, and emissions control.
Through his decades-long research, teaching, and innovation, Dr. Agarwal has helped shape the future of sustainable mobility and energy, creating a legacy that continues to inspire scientists, engineers, and students across the world.
Early Life and Education of Avinash Kumar Agarwal – Building a Foundation of Excellence
Dr. Avinash Kumar Agarwal’s journey began in the small town of Karauli, Rajasthan, where curiosity and discipline guided his early years. His academic brilliance shone through as he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Malaviya Regional Engineering College (now MNIT Jaipur), graduating in 1994. He soon followed this with an M.Tech in Energy Studies from IIT Delhi in 1996 — a decision that would chart the course of his lifelong mission: to create sustainable energy technologies that could change the world.
At IIT Delhi, his intellectual hunger and innovative mindset flourished under the mentorship of Professor L. M. Das. His Ph.D. thesis, “Performance Evaluation and Tribological Studies on a Biodiesel-Fuelled Compression Ignition Engine,” completed in 1999, was one of the earliest and most influential works in the field of biodiesel in India. His research laid the groundwork for the widespread adoption of cleaner fuels and environmentally friendly engine technologies.
Global Exposure and Return to Serve India
After completing his Ph.D., Avinash Kumar Agarwal moved to the University of Wisconsin–Madison for his postdoctoral research at the prestigious Engine Research Center. There, he deepened his understanding of advanced combustion systems and gained exposure to cutting-edge global energy research.
In 2001, he made a conscious decision that would define his life’s purpose — to return to India and contribute directly to the nation’s technological growth. Joining IIT Kanpur as an Assistant Professor, he began his journey of nurturing talent, building research infrastructure, and advancing India’s position in global energy and automotive research.
Avinash Kumar Agarwal: Academic Leadership and Research Legacy
At IIT Kanpur, Dr. Avinash Kumar Agarwal rapidly established himself as a thought leader and researcher par excellence. Rising through the ranks to become a Professor of Mechanical Engineering, his research lab became a hub of innovation in combustion, biofuels, methanol engines, emission reduction technologies, optical diagnostics, and tribology.
He has authored and co-authored over 280 scientific papers, edited 40 books, and contributed more than 40 book chapters, many of which are published by prestigious international publishers like Springer and Wiley-VCH. His co-edited Handbook of Combustion remains a key global reference in the field.
Dr. Agarwal’s research isn’t just academic — it’s deeply practical. His work on low-cost diesel oxidation catalysts, biodiesel from Indian feedstocks, and homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines has had a real-world impact, particularly in addressing air pollution and fuel sustainability challenges. His studies on laser ignition of methane and hydrogen-air mixtures and methanol engine development have also shaped the evolution of future-ready, low-emission engines.
Director of IIT Jodhpur – Leading with Vision and Integrity
In April 2024, Dr. Avinash Kumar Agarwal was appointed as the Director of IIT Jodhpur, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career. Known for his inclusive leadership and deep commitment to innovation, he is steering IIT Jodhpur toward becoming a world-class center for interdisciplinary research, entrepreneurship, and sustainable technology development.
His leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration, ethics, and the integration of technology with social responsibility — principles that echo through the vibrant academic and research ecosystem he is building at the institute.
Awards, Honors, and Global Recognition
Dr. Avinash Kumar Agarwal’s contributions have earned him some of India’s and the world’s most prestigious scientific honors. His accolades include:
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Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize (2016) – India’s highest science award, for contributions to Engineering Sciences.
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Young Scientist Award (2002) – Department of Science and Technology, India.
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Young Engineer Award (2005) – Indian National Academy of Engineering.
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Ralph R. Teetor Educational Award (2008) – SAE International, USA.
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NASI-Reliance Industries Platinum Jubilee Award (2012) – National Academy of Sciences, India.
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Rajib Goyal Prize in Physical Sciences (2015) – Kurukshetra University.
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Er. M. P. Baya National Award (2017) – Institution of Engineers, Udaipur.
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Clarivate Analytics India Research Excellence Award (2017) – Recognized as one of the Top 10 Highly Cited Researchers from India (2018) by Clarivate Analytics.
Beyond awards, his influence is evident in his fellowships and editorial roles. He is a Fellow of the ASME, SAE International, Royal Society of Chemistry (UK), INAE, NASI, and International Society for Energy, Environment and Sustainability. He also serves as Associate Principal Editor of “Fuel”, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, and is a board member of numerous international journals.