PM-USHA Sponsored National Workshop on Density Functional Theory (DFT) for Material Scientists 2024 (NWDFTMS-2024) (23-24 September, 2024)

 

The Department of Physics, Shivaji University, Kolhapur, successfully organized the PM-USHA Sponsored National Workshop on Density Functional Theory (DFT) for Material Scientists 2024 (NWDFTMS-2024) on September 23-24, 2024. The workshop aimed to bring together experts, researchers, and scholars from across the country to discuss the latest developments in Density Functional Theory (DFT), a important theory in material science research. The event served as a platform for sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas, and exploring new directions for DFT applications along with the hands-on-experience of BURAI, the GUI (Graphic User Interface ) of Quantum Espresso and demonstration of an important software like ORCA

The workshop began with an inaugural session on the morning of September 23, 2024, at 11:00 am. The event started with the arrival of distinguished guests on the dais, followed by a warm welcome and introduction of the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) S. H. Thakar, Dean of Science and Technology, Shivaji University. Dr. M. V. Takale, Research Professor, Department of Physics, Shivaji University, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of DFT in advancing material science research. Prof. Thakar emphasized the growing relevance of computational methods in modern scientific research and praised the efforts of the Department of Physics, Shivaji University in organizing this timely workshop. Following the inaugural ceremony, Prof. (Dr.) R. G. Sonkawade, Head, Department of Physics, Shivaji University, delivered the presidential address, reflecting on the departments commitment to advancing research in material sciences. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. N. L. Tarwal, followed by the national anthem.

The technical sessions began soon after, with Dr. Sunil Patil from the Institute of Science, Nagpur, leading Session I and Session II. Dr. Patil's sessions focused on the fundamental principles of DFT and its practical applications in material science research. The afternoon session was enriched by a comprehensive lecture by Dr. Trapti Gupta from IIS University, Jaipur, who shared insights on the use of DFT in nanomaterials and electronic properties, generating lively discussions among the participants. She gave Hands-on-experience of BURAI for the participants 

The second day of the workshop, September 24, 2024, began with Session IV and Session V, conducted by Dr. D. H. Dagade from Shivaji University. Dr. Dagade's presentations explored the applications of DFT in analyzing the structural properties of advanced materials, providing the audience with deep technical insights. His sessions were well-received, as participants engaged in thoughtful discussions on DFT's future role in material science. In his last session, Dr. Dagade gave live demonstration of the ORCA software, for the gathering of the participants.   

The workshop concluded with a Valedictory Ceremony at 3:30 pm. The Chief Guest, Dr. N. L. Tarwal, delivered a motivating address, encouraging participants to continue exploring the vast potential of DFT in their research. The presidential address was given by Prof. (Dr.) K. Y. Rajpure, Professor of Physics, who emphasized the importance of collaborative research in driving scientific progress. Dr. M. V. Takale summarized the two days' proceedings, highlighting key takeaways and the impactful discussions held during the sessions. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. A. R. Patil, followed by the national anthem, marking the end of a successful and engaging workshop.

The NWDFTMS-2024 provided a unique platform for material scientists to deepen their understanding of Density Functional Theory and its applications, fostering collaborative efforts and inspiring future research endeavors in this critical field of science.

7. Number of Participants: Male: 69 Female: 54 Total: 123

8. Minimum Two/ Three pics of the events with Geotag