Madhushree Hegde

Ph.D. Scholar specializing in polymer nanocomposites and thermal interface materials, focusing on enhancing thermal conductivity, materials characterization, and cross-functional research collaboration. Proficient in advanced research methodologies and scientific analysis, driving innovative solutions with strong problem-solving skills. Demonstrated success in fostering collaboration and achieving significant research milestones, with a track record of excellence in the field.

• Recipient of "Young Scientist Award"in the 14th at National Women Science Congress for presenting a part of my work "Synergistic effect of co-continuous network of polydopamine coated copper nanowires and graphene oxide on the thermal conductivity of silicone elastomer nanocomposites" held at Tumkur University on 16th and 17th December 2023
• Worked as a core team member in conducting "Shodh"- a research scholar's symposium held at MS Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru in July 2024
• Organized a Panel discussion on 'Career Transitions: Ph.D. to Employment' at the event Shodh, MSRUAS

 Arena of research interest involves polymer nanocomposites, nanomaterial synthesis and different nanomaterial modification methods for particular applications. Research work focuses on enhancing thermal conductivity of elastomers with suitable nanomaterials; strategies to achieve synergy in thermal conductivity of polymer nanocomposites; unique methods of surface modification of both carbon and inorganic nanofillers. The research works have been presented in various national and international conferences.

 Research articles

• Hegde, M., Chandrashekar, A., Reddy B, K., Gopi, J.A., Ajeya, K.P. and Prabhu, T.N. (2025) ‘Enhancement of thermal conductivity in silicone rubber nanocomposites via low loading of polydopamine-coated copper nanowires’, Materials Today Communications, 45, p. 112353. Available at: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mtcomm.2025.112353.
• Chandrashekar, A., Hegde, M., Siya, Karthik Reddy, B., Gopi, J.A., Ravichandran, V., Varrla, E. and Prabhu, T.N. (2025) ‘Green covalent surface functionalization of carbon nanofillers and hybridization to improve the thermal and electrical properties of RTV SR nanocomposites’, Applied Materials Today, 42, p. 102603. Available at: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmt.2025.102603.

Review Articles

• Hegde, M., Chandrashekar, A., Gopi, J.A., Parameswaranpillai, J., Prabhu, T.N. and Kotresh, T.M. (2025) ‘Progress in thermally conducting elastomer nanocomposites and hybrid nanocomposites: A comprehensive review’, Applied Materials Today, 44, p. 102727. Available at: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmt.2025.102727.
• Chandrashekar, A., Hegde, M., Krishna, S., Ayippadath Gopi, J., Kotresh, T.M. and Prabhu, T.N. (2023) ‘Non-covalent surface functionalization of nanofillers towards the enhancement of thermal conductivity of polymer nanocomposites: A mini review’, European Polymer Journal, 198, p. 112379. Available at: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2023.112379.

• An accomplished Bharatanatyam artist, secured third rank for the state in the Bharatanatyam Senior Exam conducted by the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board
• Performed at the 103rd Indian Science Congress inaugurated by Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the University of Mysore, in 2016.
• Awarded "Sahyadri Young Ecologist" in 2012 by the Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, for contributions to the Integrated Ecological Carrying Capacity study of Uttara Kannada District. Also featured in an interview on DD Chandana with Dr. MD Subashchandran from the Energy and Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, IISc, Bengaluru.
• Secured 1st place in the district-level chess competition held by the Department of Pre-University Education and participated in the State level competition in Chamarajanagar.