<p data-start="0" data-end="571">I wish to join NICMAR University, Pune, as an Assistant Professor of Structural Engineering because it offers a dynamic academic environment where structural engineering is closely integrated with construction practice, infrastructure management, and industry engagement. My academic training and research contributions, particularly in the area of corrosion&ndash;fatigue interaction in reinforced concrete (RC) structures, align strongly with NICMAR&rsquo;s mission of addressing real-world infrastructure challenges through technically rigorous and application-oriented education.</p>
<p data-start="573" data-end="1444">My research focuses on understanding the coupled effects of corrosion and fatigue in RC members subjected to realistic service conditions. I have systematically investigated corrosion followed by fatigue (CF), fatigue followed by corrosion (FC), and simultaneous corrosion&ndash;fatigue scenarios. Through these studies, I have demonstrated how loading history and environmental exposure interact to influence crack initiation, crack propagation, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation, and residual load-carrying capacity. This work advances beyond conventional isolated assessments of corrosion or fatigue by capturing the complex deterioration mechanisms governing long-term structural performance. Such insights are directly relevant to bridges, marine structures, transportation systems, and industrial infrastructure, where durability and safety are critical concerns.</p>
<p data-start="1446" data-end="2074">NICMAR&rsquo;s strong industry interface makes it an ideal platform to translate these research insights into impactful teaching and collaborative engagement. My expertise in structural behavior, durability assessment, and performance degradation analysis can meaningfully contribute to courses such as structural analysis, reinforced concrete design, and infrastructure durability. I aim to integrate mechanics-based reasoning with case-driven discussions so that students understand not only how to design structures, but also how to assess and manage their long-term performance under combined mechanical and environmental actions.</p>
<p data-start="2076" data-end="2633">In addition to publishing in reputed journals, I have been actively involved in mentoring students and guiding technical discussions that emphasize analytical thinking and conceptual clarity. My teaching philosophy is centered on building strong fundamentals in mechanics while encouraging critical evaluation of structural response under realistic service load conditions. I believe that students should develop the ability to connect theoretical formulations with field performance, thereby becoming technically competent and industry-ready professionals.</p>
<p data-start="2635" data-end="3151">NICMAR&rsquo;s emphasis on innovation, interdisciplinary learning, and construction-focused research aligns with my future goals. I am keen to expand my work toward predictive durability modeling under sustained service loads, integrate experimental observations with advanced numerical simulations, and contribute to performance-based maintenance strategies for aging infrastructure. Collaborative engagement with industry through NICMAR would further enhance the practical relevance and societal impact of this research.</p>
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<p data-start="3153" data-end="3772" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Joining NICMAR, Pune, represents an opportunity to contribute to an institution that values academic excellence, professional relevance, and innovation in the built environment. I am enthusiastic about fostering a research-informed teaching culture, mentoring students with integrity and rigor, and strengthening the structural engineering domain within NICMAR&rsquo;s multidisciplinary framework. I am confident that my background in corrosion&ndash;fatigue interaction and my commitment to high-quality teaching and research will enable me to contribute meaningfully to the university&rsquo;s continued growth and academic distinction.</p>