Contact: Sammy McDavid
The research report of a Mississippi State doctoral student in forest resources is being praised by an international body.
M. Sridhar Balaji Bhaskar's evaluation of the use of ferns to extract metals from contaminated soils recently earned first-place honors from the Society of Wood Science and Technology. A native of India, he was among 15 students whose research reports were considered for judging this year.
The challenge was part of the organization's recent 2003 meeting, whose theme focused on wood science and technology in the bio-based economy.
The society was established in 1958 by scientists and engineers working in academia, government, consulting, and the forest products industries. Among other missions, members work to provide education and expertise that will improve the use and production of wood products.
As competition winner, Balaji Bhaskar received a cash award and plaque. His and other student presentations involved a written abstract and accompanying visual display. The reports were evaluated on the basis of scientific merit, experimental design and validity of conclusions, among other things.
Balaji Bhaskar is scheduled to graduate from MSU in May 2004. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees in agriculture from the Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University in Hyderabad, a southeastern city in his native country.