Five Nepali scientists included in Asian Scientist 100 list

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Sept. 26: Five Nepali researchers have been named in the 2025 Asian Scientist 100 list.  Among them, Dr. Tista Prasai Joshi, a leading scientist at the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), stands out for her pioneering work in tackling arsenic contamination and ensuring access to safe drinking water.

Since 2016, Asian Scientist magazine has published the Asian Scientist 100 -- now in its eighth edition -- recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions to science. 

Dr. Joshi was chosen for the list after winning the 2024 TWAS-Samira Omar Innovation for Sustainability Award, which honours scientists working for sustainable development. She has been studying water safety in Nepal, especially the problem of arsenic in groundwater that threatens public health in the southern plains.

For over a decade, Dr. Joshi has been working on low-cost, effective methods to detect and remove arsenic from drinking water. Her efforts have not only raised awareness about the invisible but deadly threat of contaminated water but have also provided practical solutions to affected communities. 

At NAST, she leads a research team dedicated to water quality monitoring, advocating for stronger policies and technological innovation to ensure safe water for all Nepalis.

According to Dr. Joshi, “Clean drinking water is a basic human right.” 

She highlighted that the safety of water sources is inseparable from broader issues of public health, equity and climate resilience. 

Her recognition on the Asian Scientist 100 list is not only a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for the country’s fight against waterborne health crises.

While Dr. Joshi focuses on one of the most urgent human needs, the other four scientists highlight the wide range of country’s scientific achievements.

Frienson Pradhan, the winner of the Falling Walls Lab Kathmandu 2024, impressed judges with his innovative concept titled “Breaking the wall of pestilence -- From invasive weed to eco-friendly mosquito control.” 

His approach reimagines a persistent ecological challenge, transforming invasive plants into tools for public health.

Raju Acharya, from Friends of Nature Nepal, is celebrated for his dedication to owl conservation. Awarded the 2024 Whitley Award, Acharya has worked extensively to safeguard owl habitats and combat hunting and illegal trade, shining a light on often-overlooked species in Nepal’s biodiversity.

Shailendra Giri, from Rapti Engineering College, earned the ICT Excellence Award 2024 for his contributions to advancing communications and information technology in Nepal. His innovations are helping to bridge the digital divide and expand access to technology in rural and  urban areas alike.

Meanwhile, our Humla correspondent Rajan Rawat reported that Rinzin Phunjok Lama, an independent conservation biologist from Humla, has been recognised for his tireless efforts to protect the endangered snow leopard.

Winner of the Rolex Award (2022) and the Nature Award (2023), Lama has mobilised local communities in high-altitude areas to conduct snow leopard surveys and strengthen conservation practices. 

Currently, director of the Ukali Project, he continues to lead efforts in Manang, Mustang, Bajura, Bajhang and Humla.

The Asian Scientist 100 list has previously featured scientists from powerhouse countries such as China, India, Japan, and Singapore. The presence of multiple Nepali names this year sends a clear message that the country’s researchers are rising to meet the scientific, environmental, and technological challenges of our time.