Bengaluru Teen Turns Science Project into Double Award Winner at Academia-Industry Event
Bengaluru: Highlighting the impact of early research exposure, Ms. Likhila B. K., a Grade 11 student at St. Francis School, Bengaluru, won two awards at the Academia-Industry Conclave 2025, organised by the Centre for Nano and Material Sciences (CNMS), Jain University.
Her project was part of Anveshana 2025, Prayoga’s national student research program, under the guidance of Dr. Ramya Prabhu (Principal Investigator) and Mr. Nagarjuna M. (Co-PI).
Anveshana, a fully funded scientific research program for Grades 9–12, allows students to pursue original research with expert mentorship. The program brings together students from diverse backgrounds, offering access to advanced labs and fieldwork while also studying how research fosters scientific curiosity.
Competing with doctoral and post-doctoral scholars nationwide, Likhila received both the Best Poster Award and Best Idea Pitch Award for her project, “Development of Poly-L-Lactic Acid – Metal Oxide Polymer Composites for Biodegradable Piezoelectric Devices.”
The project focused on creating eco-friendly piezoelectric materials that generate electricity when pressed or stretched, often used in healthcare devices. Since current implants rely on non-biodegradable materials, the team experimented with Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) combined with metal oxides to produce biodegradable films.
After testing, they found a combination that performed well, offering potential for safer, biodegradable implants in bone and tissue regeneration.
“The five months I spent at Anveshana were incredibly enriching. I learnt more about science than ever before and built lasting connections. My mentors encouraged me to ask questions, design experiments, and think independently.
Presenting my work to industry experts and research scholars made me feel truly part of the scientific community,” said Likhila.
Dr. K. S. Nagabhushana, Director – Research, Prayoga, noted, “Likhila stood out among senior scholars, including PhD participants, at a national-level forum. The confidence and skills she displayed reflect the hands-on learning environment provided by Anveshana and the program’s focus on nurturing young researchers.”
Since 2021, Anveshana has guided 114 students across 37 projects, resulting in 11 publications in international journals and numerous awards at academic forums. The program continues to develop skills, curiosity, and confidence among high schoolers, shaping India’s future innovators.
Dr Bhumika Maikhuri is a Consultant Orthodontist at Sanjeevan Hospital, Delhi. She is also working as a Correspondent and a Medical Writer at Medical Dialogues. She completed her BDS from Dr D Y patil dental college and MDS from Kalinga institute of dental sciences. Apart from dentistry, she has a strong research and scientific writing acumen. At Medical Dialogues, She focusses on medical news, dental news, dental FAQ and medical writing etc.