Brief profile of SEES laboratory

The SEES laboratory is an integral part of the academic programs at the School of Ecology and Environment Studies, Nalanda University. It is used both by master’s students and doctoral researchers. The laboratory has two wings: dry and wet, respectively. It has state-of-the-art facilities to support a considerable range of research endeavours.

The dry lab is equipped with computational and software resources, including capabilities for remote sensing data analysis and Geographic Information System (GIS), Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Environmental Data Analytics, and Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA).

The inventory in the wet wing spans from UV-VIS Spectrophotometer, TOC Analyzer, Kjeldahl Analyzer, fume hood, microwave, optical microscope, oven, muffle furnace, refrigerator, BOD incubator, COD incubator, sieve shaker, balances, column setup, water distillation unit, stirrers, and desiccators. These help in the analysis of plant, water, soil and air and primarily cater to the analytical needs of in-house students and researchers. Parameters that are commonly analysed include the pH, EC, TDS, DO, TOC, TN, and heavy metals directly measured or determined via titration or spectrophotometric techniques in potable water. Soil sample analysis for physical and chemical properties and micrometeorological measurements.

Furthermore, the lab is equipped to characterize nano- and micro-sized contaminants and conduct small-scale contaminant transport experiments. For field-scale investigations, the laboratory provides an extensive array of hydrogeological information, including water level data, groundwater flow patterns, and hydraulic conductivity measurements. We also offer analytical measurements of water quality parameters (e.g., pH, EC, TDS, DO) and facilitate ecological measurements through tools such as GPS, camera traps, and binoculars. An assortment of field equipment, including soil samplers and diggers, is available for various field studies.

The lab is continuously being upgraded. We look forward to having a couple more pieces of equipment (e.g., AAS, ICP-MS, Hyperspectral Imaging Sensor)

Extent of Lab Utilization

The SEES Laboratory plays a pivotal role in supporting educational programs by facilitating experiments across a multitude of courses. These courses encompass Environmental Pollution, Environmental Hydrology, Contaminant Hydrology, Waste Management, and Nanomaterials in Soil Environment. The laboratory’s instrumental capabilities are extensively utilized for soil, water, and air analysis, with many instruments actively employed.

The laboratory is a vibrant hub for students pursuing Master’s dissertations. These students are engaged in diverse research projects involving extensive lab or field experiments. The scope of their work varies, and some opt for independent study opportunities focused on lab-related activities. To ensure proper record-keeping, logbooks have been introduced for major instruments like the TOC Analyzer, Kjeldahl Analyzer, and Spectrophotometer. Additionally, students have the option to borrow smaller field equipment, including GPS devices, field-level pH and EC meters, and water-level meters, for use in select courses. For borrowed equipment, logbooks are meticulously maintained to track their usage.

Safety Features

Safety is of paramount importance in the SEES Laboratory, and stringent measures are in place to safeguard both students and staff. A Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) register is diligently maintained for all chemicals used within the laboratory, ensuring that safety information is readily accessible. In addition, a fire extinguisher has been recently installed as an added precautionary measure. We uphold rigorous safety protocols, especially when handling concentrated acids, strong bases, and other potentially hazardous chemicals. Students are consistently reminded to work in the presence of lab staff, particularly when utilizing specialized instruments.

Facilities available at SEES laboratory