A Proud Moment for IIT Kanpur: Prof. Amit Kumar Agarwal Wins the 2025 Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar for Pioneering Contributions to Quantum Physics

Kanpur: Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) proudly announces that Prof. Amit Kumar Agarwal, Department of Physics, has been awarded the 2025 Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: Vigyan Yuva - Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, one of India’s highest honors in science and technology. 

This prestigious recognition celebrates Prof. Agarwal’s pathbreaking research in theoretical condensed matter physics, particularly in the areas of quantum transport, topological materials, and low-dimensional systems.

 He becomes the first alumnus of the Center for High Energy Physics (CHEP), Indian Institute of Science, to receive this distinguished national award. It is a moment of great pride for IIT Kanpur and the Indian scientific community. 

Prof. Agarwal completed his Ph.D. at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, under the supervision of Prof. Diptiman Sen, where his doctoral thesis on Transport properties of quasi-one-dimensional quantum systems earned him the Kumari L. A. Meera Memorial Medal for the best Ph.D. thesis in theoretical physics (2009–2011). 

Before joining IIT Kanpur in August 2012, he served as a Marie Curie Postdoctoral Researcher at the Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa (Italy), where he worked with Prof. Rosario Fazio and Dr. Marco Polini on the European Union FP7 project SemiSpinNet, exploring quantum many-body effects in two-dimensional electron gases with strong spin-orbit coupling. 

At IIT Kanpur, Prof. Agarwal has emerged as a leading figure in theoretical physics. His research explores quantum geometry and transport phenomena in quantum materials, the study of new two-dimensional, topological, and magnetic materials using density functional theory, collective excitations such as plasmons and charge density waves, and nanoscale device modeling relevant to emerging quantum technologies. His work provides fundamental insights into the quantum behavior of materials and contributes to the design of future nanoelectronic and quantum devices. 

Reflecting on the honor, Prof. Agarwal said, “It is a privilege to be recognized with this award. My journey has been guided by the curiosity to understand the quantum world and by the inspiration I draw from my mentors, colleagues, and students. The Physics department at IIT Kanpur has been my home and my karma-bhoomi since 2012. Our institute is a place that constantly motivates natural curiosity, learning, and excellence.” 

Instituted by the Government of India, the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar honors outstanding contributions in science, technology, and innovation. The Vigyan Yuva – Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize category specifically recognizes exceptional achievements by scientists below the age of 45. Prof. Agarwal’s recognition reaffirms IIT Kanpur’s enduring legacy of excellence in fundamental research and its pivotal role in shaping India’s scientific future. 

Born in Chirkunda (Dhanbad) in 1980, Prof. Agarwal completed his schooling at De Nobili School, Mugma. He earned his B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics from Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, where he received the N. S. Khare Award for Academic Excellence. He pursued his M.S. (2002–2005) and Ph.D. (2005–2009) from IISc Bangalore, followed by his postdoctoral research in Italy. Known for his clarity of thought, rigorous approach, and deep engagement with students, Prof. Agarwal continues to make significant contributions to the theoretical understanding of quantum materials and phenomena. 

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, holds the distinction of being recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades. Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts a rich array of academic and research resources. The institute comprises 20 departments, 26 centers, three interdisciplinary programs, and three specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines. With over 590 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur remains a leader in fostering innovation and academic rigor.