Dr. Sanjay Rastogi is a professor of chemical engineering at KAUST, with more than 25 years of experience working with chemical industries located in Saudi Arabia, Europe, the United States and India. Following the back integration approach, from polymer synthesis to product development, his laboratory at KAUST emphasizes the value of interdisciplinary research to address complex challenges in polymer development and applications. Investigations include polymer synthesis, advanced characterization techniques, physics, rheology, processing and additive manufacturing, with an emphasis on eco-friendly methods. Prior to joining KAUST in 2020, he was a full professor at Maastricht University and an associate professor at Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands, with teaching expertise in polyolefin, bio-polymers, polymer physics and polymer technology. From 2008 to 2015 he was a principle scientist and senior technical expert for Teijin Aramid (NL), a global industry leader that produces various high-strength fibers including aramid, carbon fiber. In this context, Rastogi received accolades for developing the strongest commercial tape on the market under the brand name Endumax. Additional recognitions include a Max-Planck Society Fellowship at the Max Planck Institute for Polymers in Mainz, and “Outstanding Scientist” at Council of Science and Industrial Research (CSIR), India. He received several innovation awards from the Dutch Polymer Institute. Professor Rastogi has authored more than 180 scientific publications (including Nature, Nature Materials, News and Views Nature) and 30 patent applications. ​

Professor Rastogi’s research involves controlling the structure and arrangement of polymer chains to achieve unique, unprecedented mechanical properties. In this process, he investigates the underlying synthesis to tailor molecular architecture. Current work utilizes polymers with functionalities — specific chemical groups attached to their backbone chains — to produce recyclable polymer products using additive manufacturing processing methods while addressing sustainable solutions and meeting the societal requirements. ​