Prof. Ranjana Jha is a distinguished academician, researcher and administrator known for her profound contributions in the fields of Physics and Solar Energy Research. Currently, she serves as the Vice Chancellor of the prestigious Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women (IGDTUW). Her academic journey spanning over three decades, reflects her relentless commitment to scientific Research, Education, and Leadership in renewable energy technologies. Prof. Jha’s impressive academic foundation began with her M.Sc. in Physics from Patna University in 1983, followed by her Ph.D. from Jamia Millia Islamia University in 1991. Her research has primarily focused on solar energy materials and technologies, with a particular emphasis on nano-structured thin-film solar cells including dye-sensitized and quantum dot solar cells.
She was instrumental in the development of the NSUT Solar Car and the Solar Rooftop Power Plant, both sponsored by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and the Petroleum Conservation and Research Association (PCRA). These initiatives not only reflect her commitment to eco-friendly technologies but also exemplify her leadership in driving forward innovative energy solutions that benefit both industry and society. Prof. Jha’s work has earned her an impressive portfolio of over 265 published research papers in leading National and International Journals, Conferences, Book Chapters etc. Prof. Jha has presented keynote addresses at major academic events around the globe, including at Stanford University and Oxford University. These engagements have strengthened her international standing as a leader in solar energy and advanced material research.

Prof. Jha’s contributions to science and education have been recognized through numerous national and international awards. She has been honoured with the prestigious Shrimati Sushma Swaraj Stree Shakti Samman conferred by Re-Think India, Lifetime Achievement Award in Science at the Venus International Women Awards (VIWA) in 2017. Her excellence in teaching earned her the Best Professor in Physics Award at the 27th Dewang Mehta National Education Awards in 2019. Additionally, in 2021, she was awarded the International Esteemed Women Professor Award by the Centre for Professional Advancement (CPACE), UK, highlighting her global impact in higher education and many more.

Throughout her career, Prof. Jha has held several prestigious positions, including as the Head, (Department of Physics), Director, (University Research Facility) at the Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT), New Delhi, before her current role at IGDTUW. She has chaired international conferences, such as the International Conference on Advanced Materials for Engineering Technologies, and has played a key role in designing academic programs that foster cutting-edge research and education in her field. Her leadership extends to her involvement in various research advisory boards, curriculum development committees, and academic program formulation across multiple universities.

Prof. Jha’s influence extends beyond the boundaries of traditional academic roles. She is a visionary, constantly pushing the frontiers of science and education. Her leadership at IGDTUW emphasizes inclusivity, promoting women’s participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Prof. Jha remains committed to foster the next generation of scientists and engineers through her dedication to teaching, mentorship, and research.