DW BUREAU / CHANDIGARH

The academic and scientific communities mourn the loss of Prof. (Dr.) Gopal Saran Gupta, a distinguished educationist and scientist, who passed away recently. Prof. Gupta, a co-founder of the Department of Biophysics at Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, was celebrated for his significant contributions to biophysical chemistry and molecular biology.

Prof. Gupta's illustrious career at PU began in 1966, when he joined as a lecturer (Assistant Professor). He served as the Chairman of the Department of Biophysics from April 1984 to March 1987 and retired as a Professor in July 1996. In recognition of his enduring contributions, he was appointed Professor-Emeritus at his alma mater in 2015.

Born on November 15, 1934, in Tilhar, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Prof. Gupta's journey in education commenced at L.B.J.P. Inter College, Tilhar, where he completed his high school in 1951. He pursued further studies at B.N.S.D. College, Kanpur, and subsequently earned his B.Sc. from D.A.V. College, Kanpur, affiliated with Agra University, in 1955. He obtained dual Master's degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry from Lucknow University in 1957 and 1958, respectively. Prof. Gupta earned his Ph.D. in Biophysics from PU in 1974 with a dissertation on "Physicochemical Studies on Normal and Irradiated Mammalian Testes."

Prof. Gupta's professional career spanned several esteemed institutions. He began as a lecturer and postgraduate teacher of Physical Chemistry at NREC College, Khurja, and Meerut College, Meerut, before joining the Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (PGI), Chandigarh, as a Tutor in the Department of Biochemistry in 1964. He transitioned to PU's Department of Biophysics in 1966, where he remained a pivotal figure in teaching and research until his retirement.

An esteemed researcher, Prof. Gupta made groundbreaking contributions in molecular radiation biology, enzyme studies of the male reproductive system, and the data analysis and classification of animal lectins. His prolific output includes approximately 200 research articles, thematic reviews in international journals, and several books published by Springer.

Beyond his professional achievements, Prof. Gupta was revered for his humanity and dedication to societal betterment. Known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to helping others, he was a beloved figure among colleagues, students, and the wider community. His autobiography, "In Search of a Scientific Truth" (2019), chronicles his inspiring journey and lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
(editor@dailyworld.in)