Dr. Neha Hebalkar is a distinguished nanotechnologist with over 25 years of research and development experience in advanced functional materials. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Pune in 2003 and subsequently completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship under the prestigious Nanomission initiative at CSIR–IICT, Hyderabad. Since joining ARCI, Hyderabad, in 2006, she has played a significant role in advancing translational research in nanomaterials. She is also a Fellow of the Maharashtra Academy of Sciences and serves as the co-founder and scientific advisor of Dasham Labs Pvt. Ltd., established under ARCI’s Scientist-Entrepreneurship Policy.

Dr. Hebalkar’s work focuses on the design and development of nanomaterials with tailored properties for targeted applications. Her expertise spans innovative synthesis strategies, process scale-up, development of indigenous equipment, prototype engineering, and the delivery of market-ready products with real-world impact. She has deep experience across the entire innovation value chain—from ideation and laboratory research to technology demonstration, validation, and commercialization. Her techno-commercial proficiency includes industry negotiations, technology costing, patent drafting, global patent prosecution, and intellectual property analysis.

Several of her technologies have reached successful commercialization, notably self-cleaning, UV-protective, and antibacterial functional apparel now available in the domestic market. Her recent flagship technology—Silica Aerogel-Based Superior Thermal Insulation Material—is progressing through commercialization for industrial and architectural sectors. This initiative aligns with national missions such as Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and Energy Conservation, contributing to high-performance, import-substitute materials for futuristic applications.

Dr. Hebalkar has published more than 70 research papers and holds several granted and applied patents, with nearly half already commercialized—an exceptional achievement in translational materials research. She has mentored over 70 students, nurturing the next generation of scientists and innovators, and is frequently invited to speak at national and international conferences, industries, academic institutions, and professional forums.

Beyond scientific contributions, she is deeply committed to women’s empowerment and workplace safety. As the Presiding Officer of ARCI’s Internal Committee, she played a pivotal role in strengthening systems for women’s welfare, awareness, and grievance redressal, fostering a safe and inclusive work environment.