Harshwardhan Thorat

R&D Chemist Aug 2022 -

Newchem Sunraysia Pvt Ltd

As a Formulation Developer at Newchem Sunraysia, I drive R&D initiatives for sustainable agricultural solutions, with a particular focus on the design and optimization of effervescent tablet formulations. My work encompasses the following key responsibilities:

Product Development: Spearheading the formulation of innovative products like BioFizz and Black Jack, which utilize microbial and nutrient-based effervescent tablets to enhance crop yield, nutrient uptake, and root mass in a sustainable manner.
Patent and IP Strategy: Developing unique formulations, including drone-compatible and micronized effervescent tablets, and securing intellectual property rights to protect these advancements. My contributions have resulted in multiple patents for effervescent agricultural inputs.
Technical and Analytical Expertise: Utilizing my expertise in organic and formulation chemistry to fine-tune product compositions, troubleshoot formulation challenges (e.g., stability, effervescence consistency), and ensure high-quality product performance for agricultural applications.
Collaboration and Cross-Functional Support: Working closely with cross-functional teams in production, quality assurance, and marketing to ensure product efficacy, regulatory compliance, and market alignment.
Sustainability Initiatives: Developing eco-friendly, bio-based formulations that reduce reliance on traditional chemical fertilizers and pesticides, aiming to promote more sustainable and resilient agricultural practices.
This role allows me to combine my technical skills and research background with a mission to innovate and improve agricultural productivity and environmental impact.

QC Chemist Jul 2021 - Aug 2022

Abelin Polymers Pvt Ltd

As a Quality Control (QC) Chemist at Abelin Polymers, I was responsible for ensuring the quality, consistency, and compliance of polymer products through rigorous testing and analysis. My key responsibilities included:

Quality Testing and Analysis: Conducting a range of chemical and physical tests on polymer samples, including viscosity, tensile strength, and thermal stability, to ensure adherence to product specifications and industry standards.
Process Optimization: Collaborating with the production team to identify potential areas for quality improvement in manufacturing processes, helping to minimize defects and enhance product reliability.
Documentation and Reporting: Maintaining detailed records of test results, calibration logs, and quality reports, providing insights for both regulatory compliance and continuous improvement.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Developing and refining SOPs for laboratory procedures and equipment use to ensure accuracy, safety, and consistency across testing processes.
Compliance and Auditing: Supporting internal and external audits by maintaining up-to-date quality records and demonstrating compliance with quality management standards, such as ISO and GMP guidelines.
Troubleshooting and Root Cause Analysis: Investigating product deviations and implementing corrective actions to address quality issues, ensuring that all products met rigorous standards before release.

Lab Chemist May 2019 - Mar 2021

Varde Culture Pvt Ltd

As a Lab Chemist in the tissue culture lab at Varde Culture, my main responsibilities were to support the growth and maintenance of plant cultures and assist in laboratory operations. My key tasks included:

Media Preparation: Preparing nutrient media solutions for plant tissue cultures, ensuring consistency and accuracy in the composition for optimal growth.
Sterilization and Lab Maintenance: Operating autoclaves, maintaining a sterile environment, and ensuring that all equipment and tools were cleaned and sterilized properly to prevent contamination.
Sample Handling and Monitoring: Assisting with the transfer, labeling, and tracking of plant samples, as well as observing and recording the growth progress of cultures over time.
Record Keeping: Documenting daily lab activities, noting any changes in growth patterns, and reporting findings to senior lab members for further analysis.
Inventory Management: Monitoring and restocking lab supplies, including media ingredients, containers, and cleaning agents, to support uninterrupted lab operations.
This role gave me foundational experience in laboratory techniques, sterile procedures, and attention to detail essential in a tissue culture environment.

Savitribai Phule University Pune 2017 - 2019

Field of study: Organic Chemistry
Degree: Master of Science

Completed an MSc in Organic Chemistry with a focus on advanced synthesis techniques, reaction mechanisms, and analytical methods. The program emphasized practical and theoretical knowledge in organic synthesis, spectroscopy, and chromatography, providing a strong foundation in designing, analyzing, and optimizing organic compounds. Key projects included multicomponent reactions, natural product synthesis, and mechanistic studies, which honed my problem-solving abilities and technical skills in laboratory settings. This degree has equipped me with expertise in complex organic reactions and analytical instrumentation, essential for roles in research, development, and formulation.

Savitribai Phule University Pune 2013 - 2016

Field of study: Chemistry
Degree: Bachelor of Science

Completed a BSc in Chemistry, building a strong foundation in general, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry. The program covered essential topics such as chemical bonding, reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and analytical chemistry. Hands-on laboratory experience included experiments in titration, chromatography, and spectroscopy, developing practical skills in quantitative and qualitative analysis. This degree provided a comprehensive understanding of chemical principles and laboratory techniques, preparing me for further specialization in the field of chemistry and applied sciences.