<p>I am writing to express my keen interest in the position of Assistant Professor in Transportation Planning at NICMAR University. With over twelve years of academic experience, having completed Ph.D. in Transportation Planning, and a strong foundation in urban and infrastructure systems, I am eager to contribute to NICMAR&rsquo;s vision of advancing excellence in built environment education, research, and industry engagement.</p>
<p>My doctoral research, titled <em>&ldquo;Travel Demand Based Modal Split Analysis for Work Trips in Pune City,&rdquo;</em> focused on understanding the determinants of mode choice behavior and evaluating sustainable transport strategies for rapidly urbanizing cities. Using Multinomial Logit Models and advanced analytical tools such as PTV VISUM and Python-based machine learning frameworks, I examined travel demand patterns and public transport preferences. This research strengthened my expertise in transportation modeling, data-driven planning, and policy-oriented analysis&mdash;skills that align closely with NICMAR&rsquo;s industry-oriented academic framework.</p>
<p>Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be) University College of Engineering, Pune, I have taught subjects including Infrastructure &amp; Transportation Systems, Urban Planning, Sustainable Development, and Smart Cities. As Chairman of multiple subjects and a Board of Studies member, I have actively contributed to curriculum design, outcome-based education frameworks, and accreditation processes (NBA and NAAC). These responsibilities have enhanced my academic leadership, organizational skills, and ability to align teaching with institutional goals and regulatory standards.</p>
<p>My industry exposure during my internship at the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) provided practical insights into metro corridor planning, Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), land acquisition processes, and multimodal integration. Additionally, my M.Tech dissertation on developing an Integrated Multi-Modal Hub at Pune Railway Station reflects my long-standing interest in seamless urban mobility systems. I strongly believe that bridging academic research with real-world implementation is essential for producing competent transportation professionals.</p>
<p>Research and sustainability remain central to my academic philosophy. I have published research papers in reputed international journals and conferences, focusing on modal split analysis, smart mobility, and urban transport challenges. I also initiated and continue to lead the &ldquo;Green Innovators Club,&rdquo; fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting student-led sustainable development initiatives. At NICMAR, I aspire to mentor students in research-driven projects, consultancy assignments, and industry collaborations that address contemporary transportation challenges such as transit integration, mobility resilience, and climate-responsive planning.</p>
<p>NICMAR&rsquo;s emphasis on construction management, infrastructure development, and applied research provides an ideal platform for my expertise in transportation planning to contribute meaningfully. I am particularly interested in strengthening research in sustainable mobility, transport demand modeling, and transit-oriented urban development while integrating digital tools and analytics into the curriculum.</p>
<p>I am confident that my academic experience, research orientation, industry exposure, and commitment to sustainable infrastructure development will enable me to contribute effectively to NICMAR&rsquo;s academic and research ecosystem. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the university&rsquo;s continued excellence in shaping future leaders in infrastructure and transportation planning.</p>
<p><strong>Dr. Priya Hirave-Deshpande</strong></p>