Early Career Editorial Board Member Interview: Naresh Kasoju

Dr. Naresh Kasoju is working as Scientist-D, Deputy Head (Div. of Tissue Culture) and Deputy Quality Manager (Studies) in the Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (An Institution of National Importance, Dept. of Science & Technology, GOI), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala (2017 onwards). He obtained his Ph.D. in Biotechnology from IIT Guwahati, India (2012), and postdoctoral experience from the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Prague, Czech Republic and the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK (2012-17).

His research interests include (a) silk fibroin and other natural polymers based biomaterials for biomedical and other allied areas, (b) 3D Bioprinting and electrospinning based approaches for engineering of tissue equivalents in vitro, and (c) mesenchymal stem cells and exosomal based therapeutics for regenerative medicine applications. He has received 10+ research grants from internal and external agencies including DST and ANRF. He filed 06 Indian patents and 03 Indian design registrations so far. He has published 50+ articles, with 4800+ citations and i-10 index of 47+. He is editor of 3 books, guest editor for 4 journal special issues, editorial board member for 4 journals and reviewer for 50+ journals. He is a member of the prestigious National Academy of Science, India and Royal Society of Biology, UK. He is receipt of several awards including Shri OP Sharma Young Scientist Award by Indian Academy of Biomedical Sciences, India for his outstanding contributions in biomaterials, stem cells, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Web link: http://www.sctimst.ac.in/people/naresh.kasoju

Here is the interview we did with him:

1. Could you briefly introduce the specific focus of your current research within the broad area of bioactive materials?

My research primarily revolves around biomaterials, stem cells, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with a particular focus on (a) silk fibroin and other natural polymers based biomaterials for biomedical and other allied areas, (b) 3D Bioprinting and electrospinning based approaches for engineering of tissue equivalents in vitro, and (c) mesenchymal stem cells and exosomal based therapeutics for regenerative medicine applications.

2. In the context of researching bioactive materials, what unique obstacles or difficulties have you faced?

One of the key challenges in my research is optimizing natural polymer-based biomaterials like silk fibroin to achieve the right balance of biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and bioactivity. In 3D bioprinting and electrospinning, maintaining structural integrity and functional properties while ensuring reproducibility is a major hurdle. For mesenchymal stem cell and exosome-based therapeutics, scalability, stability, and regulatory compliance remain critical challenges. Additionally, translating these technologies from lab-scale research to real-world biomedical applications requires overcoming biological variability and process standardization.

3. How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in research, considering the rapidly evolving nature of the field?

I stay updated by regularly following reputed journals, attending international and national conferences, and actively engaging with researchers in academia and industry. Subscribing to professional indexing and networking platforms helps me track the latest studies. Additionally, my role as an editorial board member and reviewer provides valuable insights into ongoing advancements as I evaluate high-quality research from across the world. 

4. What were the key factors that attracted you to become an early career editorial board member of *Bioactive Materials*?

I was excited by the opportunity to contribute to a prestigious journal in a field that closely aligns with my research interests. Bioactive Materials is making a notable impact in biomaterials research, and being part of its editorial team enables me to support the publication of innovative studies. Additionally, this role allows me to engage with leading researchers worldwide, enhance my editorial expertise, and play a part in shaping the future of bioactive materials research. I am also grateful to my institute, SCTIMST Trivandrum, for its support and encouragement in taking up this editorial role.

5. From your perspective, what are the most promising directions for the future development of bioactive materials?

That’s a great question. With continuous discoveries and innovations, the field of bioactive materials remains dynamic, exciting, and full of possibilities. Some of the most promising directions include smart biomaterials, 3D bioprinting for patient-specific tissues, and bioactive nanomaterials for targeted therapies. Exosome-based and biomimetic materials are advancing regenerative medicine, while brain-interface materials are paving the way for brain-machine integration. Additionally, AI-driven biomaterial design is accelerating innovation, making next-generation materials more efficient and application-ready.

6. As an early career editorial board member, what initiatives do you plan to take to engage more early-career researchers with the journal and the field of bioactive materials?

As an early career editorial board member, I actively promote the journal at conferences, meetings, and through professional networks on platforms like LinkedIn. I have also encouraged early-career researchers to contribute to the journal and engage with the field. Additionally, I would aim to collaborate with fellow editors to highlight emerging trends and further enhance engagement within the bioactive materials community.

7. Beyond your scientific endeavours in bioactive materials, what is your favourite pastime?

Apart from research, I enjoy spending time with family, gardening, listening to music, and immersing myself in nature. These activities help me maintain a balanced and rejuvenated mindset.

8. Given the demanding nature of scientific research, how do you manage to strike a balance between your research work and your personal life?

Balancing research and personal life isn’t always easy, but I manage it with a structured routine and clear priorities. I take breaks when needed, spend time with family, and enjoy hobbies like gardening and music to unwind. Staying active and practicing mindfulness help me stay focused and avoid burnout. Above all, staying calm and approaching challenges with a positive mindset are my strengths, allowing me to navigate both professional and personal responsibilities effectively.