I. Theoretical work: 1. MC/MD Simulations for (I) the phase ordering dynamics in nematic liquid crystals, (ii) phase diagrams and phase transitions in liquid crystals and (iii) liquid crystals in confined geometry. 2. Phase transitions in chiral (ferroelectric and antiferroelectric) and achiral liquid crystals. 3. Banana shape liquid crystals: Theory and computer simulations. 4. Defects and textures in liquid crystals. 5. Polymer dispersed liquid crystals: Theory and computer simulations. II. Experimental work: 1. Structure and properties of polymer dispersed liquid crystals. 2. Structure and properties of binary mixtures of ionic liquids and liquid crystals. 3. Properties of liquid crystals in confined geometry. Academic Qualifications: S. No. Degree Institution Year 1. B.Sc. Gorakhpur UNiversity 1966 2. M.Sc. Banaras Hindu University 1968 3. Ph. D. Banaras Hindu University 1974
The main focus of the research activities has been to develop as well as apply theoretical methods for the understanding of molecular liquids, liquid crystals, far- infrared absorption spectra in dense fluids and computer simulations. The work done and its consequences have been among the major creative forces of soft condensed state and statistical physics. Many unsolved problems in these areas have been solved. For example, a first principle molecular theory based on the density functional formalism for the elastic properties of molecular ordered phases (liquid crystals, plastic crystals and crystalline solids) has been developed and implemented for the nematic , smectic A and biaxial nematic phases. One area of most sustained activities has been towards understanding the role of intermolecular interactions and external perturbations (pressure and electric field) on the phase stability, orientational ordering and transition properties of achiral and chiral (ferroelectric and antiferroelectric) liquid crystals.