Expert in Agroforestry, Bamboo & Sandalwood Research
Dr. Syam Viswanath
Leading forestry scientist with 32 years of research excellence. Former Director of Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) and recognized authority on sustainable agroforestry practices.
About
Dr. Syam Viswanath is a native of Aluva, a region in the city of Kochi in Kerala and settled in Bangalore, Karnataka. He obtained his Master’s Degree in Forestry from Kerala Agricultural University and Ph. D from Kumaon University, Nainital. He has completed 10 months training in Agroforestry with a FAO fellowship in SFRC, University of Florida, USA.
140+ Research Publications
25 PhD Students Guided
Dr. KG Tejwani Memorial Award Winner (2021)
Former Director, KFRI (2018-2023)
Syam
Education
Academic Excellence in Agricultural & Forest Sciences
Doctor of Philosophy
Forestry
Kumaoun University, Nainital
Master of Science
Forestry
Kerala Agricultural University
Bachelor of Science
Agriculture
Kerala Agricultural University
Achievements
Recognition for outstanding contributions to agroforestry research and institutional excellence in forestry sciences.
-
022023
Patent for Eco-Friendly Binding Material for Incense Sticks
KFRI Kerala Forest Research Institute, ThrissurKerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) was granted a patent for developing a novel eco-friendly binding matrix for incense sticks and cones. The material, made from Litsea deccanensis bark powder, bamboo sawdust, and bamboo charcoal, extends burn time, reduces CO2 emissions, and promotes sustainable manufacturing by utilising bamboo waste biomass.
Funded by the National Bamboo Mission, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare -
012023
Discovery of New Fungus Species
KFRI Kerala Forest Research Institute, ThrissurResearchers from Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), Botanical Survey of India (BSI), and University of Hyderabad jointly discovered a new fungus species Trichoglossum syamviswanathii in Kerala, named after the Indian scientist in recognition of his contributions to forestry.
Collaboration between KFRI, BSI, and University of Hyderabad -
022022-2025
Expert Member Tribal SubPlan (TSP)
DST SEED Division, Department of Science and Technology, Govt of IndiaAppointed as expert member for the Tribal SubPlan (TSP) initiative under SEED Division, contributing expertise in forestry and environmental sciences for tribal development programs and sustainable practices.
Expert advisory role for tribal development initiatives -
032021-2023
Executive Committee Member
APAFRI Association of Asia Pacific Forestry Research InstitutesServed as executive committee member of APAFRI, contributing to strategic decision-making and policy development for forestry research across the Asia Pacific region, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Regional leadership in Asia Pacific forestry research -
042021-22
KFRI Best Institute Award
Kerala Govt Government of KeralaInstitutional excellence award recognizing outstanding leadership as Director, resulting in significant achievements in forestry research, policy development, and institutional advancement under exceptional management and vision.
Presented by Hon. Chief Minister of Kerala -
052021
Dr. KG Tejwani Memorial Award
ISAF Indian Society of AgroforestryA prestigious recognition acknowledging exceptional contributions to agroforestry research, demonstrating excellence in advancing sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation through innovative research methodologies.
Outstanding contributions in Agroforestry research -
062021
Best Paper Award
Journal e-Journal of Applied Forest EcologyRecognition for exceptional research publication demonstrating innovative methodologies and significant contributions to applied forest ecology, showcasing excellence in scientific communication and research impact.
Excellence in scientific publication and research communication -
072019-2023
Program Advisory Committee Member
DST Department of Science and Technology, Govt of IndiaServed as advisory committee member providing strategic guidance for science and technology programs, contributing expertise in forestry sciences to shape national research priorities and policy frameworks.
National advisory role in science and technology policy -
082018
Best Paper Award
Journal e-Journal of Applied Forest EcologySecond recognition for outstanding research publication in applied forest ecology, demonstrating consistent excellence in research methodology, innovation, and scientific contribution to the field.
Continued excellence in forest ecology research -
092015
Courtesy Professor
UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of Florida, USAHonorary academic position recognizing expertise and contributions to forestry education and research, facilitating international collaboration and knowledge exchange between institutions.
International academic recognition and collaboration -
102015
Guest Faculty
APU Azim Premji University, BangaloreInvited to serve as guest faculty, sharing expertise in forestry sciences and contributing to academic programs, demonstrating recognition of scholarly achievements and teaching capabilities.
Academic collaboration and knowledge sharing -
112010
Life Member
BSI Bamboo Society of IndiaLife membership recognizing dedication to bamboo research and conservation, contributing to the advancement of bamboo science and sustainable utilization practices in India.
Long-term commitment to bamboo research and conservation -
122006
Fellow of Indian Academy of Wood Sciences
IAWS Indian Academy of Wood ScienceFellowship recognition as a distinguished expert in wood science, acknowledging significant contributions to research, innovation, and advancement of wood science and technology in India.
Fellowship status - highest recognition in wood sciences -
132000
Life Member
ISAF Indian Society of AgroforestryLife membership since 2000, demonstrating long-term commitment and dedication to agroforestry research and development, contributing to sustainable agricultural and forestry practices.
Over two decades of commitment to agroforestry