NEW DELHI (Diya TV) — Five Indian researchers are among 30 global scientists honored with the prestigious 2025 Inflection Awards for climate research, a recognition that highlights the next generation of innovators tackling one of humanity’s most pressing challenges.
The Inflection Awards, organized by European climate-tech venture studio Marble and backed by Breakthrough Energy Fellows and the Quadrature Climate Foundation, celebrate early-career scientists developing real-world solutions to the climate crisis. This year’s cohort will gather in Paris—the birthplace of the landmark International Treaty on Climate Change—for a two-day summit designed to foster collaboration, showcase research, and connect with global leaders and mentors.
Among this year’s honorees is Eshaan Patheria, a Ph.D. candidate at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Patheria is pioneering new high-energy-density lithium-ion battery cathodes using inexpensive and scalable raw materials, a development that could reshape the economics of clean energy storage. His commitment to renewable access began early: in 2018, in partnership with the NGO Gram Vikas, he helped establish India’s first lithium-ion battery-powered microgrid in Odisha’s Kalahandi district, bringing stable electricity to remote villages.
From air pollution to climate justice, Garima Raheja of Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory is carving out her own lane. A New Delhi native, Raheja studies the atmospheric effects of urban air pollution and its disproportionate impact on public health. Her professional journey has included roles at NASA and the White House, and she has represented the U.S. in climate diplomacy with Japan and South Korea. “I am passionate about environmental justice through climate action in the service of those most severely impacted,” Raheja told award organizers.
Meanwhile, Vikas Dhamu, a Ph.D. researcher at the National University of Singapore and an IIT Kharagpur graduate, is targeting carbon capture. His research explores storing carbon dioxide as clathrate hydrates within deep-sea sediments—a potentially game-changing approach for locking away vast quantities of CO₂. Dhamu says his work is driven by the goal of “mitigating global warming, achieving net-zero emissions, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy.”
Another awardee, Dr. Monali Priyadarshini, is an assistant professor at Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) and an IIT Kharagpur alumna. Priyadarshini specializes in wastewater treatment, developing advanced oxidation processes and bio-electrochemical systems that improve both environmental safety and energy efficiency. With 27 research publications, five book chapters, and two best paper awards under her belt, Priyadarshini also actively contributes to global scientific networks, including the International Water Association and the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Mahendra Patel, a researcher at Switzerland’s École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), rounds out the Indian contingent. Patel’s work focuses on converting sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into renewable fuels such as hydrogen, syngas, and ethylene. Using integrated photoelectrochemical devices powered by concentrated sunlight, Patel aims to improve solar-to-fuel conversion efficiencies, advancing sustainable alternatives for gasoline and aviation fuel. As he puts it, his passion lies in “advancing solar fuel technologies to tackle global energy challenges.”
The Inflection Awards shine a spotlight on researchers whose work bridges scientific rigor and practical impact, offering hope and innovation at a time when global climate solutions are needed more than ever. Organizers say the program is designed to connect “the top young scientists of tomorrow with the highest impact opportunities to make their mark on climate change.”
