Graduate Student Profile - Manoj Ramkrishna sawale
Manoj Sawale successfully defended his Ph.D. dissertation on June 14, 2024. Manoj is originally from Dabhadi, Tal- Malegaon, Nasik District, Maharashtra, India. Prior to coming to Purdue, he obtained his Bachelor's of Science in Microbiology from Pune University in Pune, India, and he earned his Master's of Science in Biotechnology from Bangalore University in Bangalore, India.
Manoj's dissertation was entitled, "Microbial Inactivation and Validation of Aseptic Processing and Packaging System Using Vapor Peroxide." His research focused on evaluating the efficacy of liquid hydrogen peroxide (LHP) and vapor hydrogen peroxide (VHP) as sterilant for biological indicators, including Bacillus atrophaeus and Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores, in aseptic processing and packaging systems under commercial sterilization conditions. It emphasized quantifying key kinetic parameters (D, Z, and a novel Zconc value) to model peroxide sterilization efficacy. The findings highlight the critical role of hydrogen peroxide concentration, application conditions, and packaging material surface properties in achieving effective spore inactivation. By providing a comprehensive understanding of these factors, this research contributes to the development of optimized aseptic sterilization protocols, Thermal processing, enhancing the safety and reliability of aseptically packaged food and pharmaceutical products. It also ensures compliance with regulatory standards and lays a strong foundation for future advancements in VHP sterilization technology.
Manoj's graduate advisor was Dr. Dharmendra Mishra. Other members of his graduate committee included Dr. Amanda Deering, Dr. Arun Bhunia, Dr. Vilas Pol, and Dr. Ferhan Ozadali.
Manoj was drawn to Purdue Food Science for his graduate degree for a couple of reasons, stating, "I chose Purdue University for my graduate degree due to its renowned reputation for research and innovation, especially in food science, aseptic processing, thermal processing, and food engineering. Purdue provides access to advanced facilities and resources crucial for leading-edge research. Moreover, the university boasts a diverse and highly skilled faculty whose expertise closely matches my research interests. The collaborative atmosphere and emphasis on practical, real-world research applications at Purdue solidified my decision that it was the perfect place to pursue my graduate studies and enhance my career."
Manoj adds, "I strongly endorse Purdue Food Science to prospective graduate students due to its top-tier academic and research environment. The program boasts modern facilities, expert and supportive faculty, and excellent industry connections. Purdue focuses on practical research applications and offers great career development opportunities within a collaborative and inclusive community. It's a perfect place to further your academic and professional aspirations in food science."
Manoj was heavily involved in several professional clubs and organizations including Phi Tau Sigma Society, International Association for Food Protection (IAFP), Purdue Cricket Club, Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), Institute for Thermal Processing Specialists (IFTPS), and American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AICHE). In addition to his organizational involvement, Manoj received several accolades during his time at Purdue Food Science, including:
- J. Mac Goepfert Developing Scientist Award (2024) - International Association for Food Protection (IAFP)
- NSF Travel Grant Recipient (2024) - Attended the International Conference on Inverse Problems in Engineering (ICIPE) in Brazil
- Graduate Recognition Award (2024) - Awarded by the Food Science Department
- First Place - Charles R. Stumbo Student Paper Competition (2024) - Awarded by the Institute for Thermal Processing Specialists (IFTPS)
- International Society of Beverage Technologists (ISBT) Scholarship Recipient (2023)
- Kirlei’s Graduate Student Award (2023) - Purdue University
- Best Poster Award (Third Prize) - Industrial Associates Meeting (2022) - Purdue University
- Best Poster Award (Fourth Prize) - Industrial Associates Meeting (2022) - Purdue University
- International Society of Beverage Technologists (ISBT) Scholarship Recipient (2018)
Post-graduation, Manoj joined Baldwin Richardson Foods as the Corporate Food Safety and Thermal Processing Manager in Macedon, New York. His future goal is to advance to the role of Process Authority, specializing in high- and low-acid foods where he can contribute to ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality within the industry.