📰 Catholic Nun Honoured with Young Researcher Award in Geology

Chennai, October 2025: Rev. Sr. Anju Maria Joseph SABS (Sr Krupa Maria Kurialassery SABS), a Catholic nun and Teaching Research Fellow in the Department of Geology at the University of Madras, has been honoured with the Young Researcher Award in Geology by Scientific Laurels. The award recognizes her outstanding contributions to Earth and Environmental Sciences.

A member of a religious congregation (SABS, Changanassery Province) dedicated to education and service, Sr. Anju Maria Joseph combines her scientific pursuit with a deep sense of faith and stewardship for creation. Her teaching and research reflect an inspiring harmony between science and spirituality, echoing Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si’ to care for our common home.

At the University of Madras, she teaches subjects such as Oceanography, Hydrology, Environmental Geology, Geomorphology, Sedimentology, Structural Geology, and Plate Tectonics. Her research focuses on microplastic pollution, environmental geochemistry, and trace metal dynamics in rivers and coastal ecosystems.

Sr. Anju has authored several scholarly papers in international journals including Water Air Soil Pollution, Journal of Sediment & Environment, and Journal of Geosciences Research. She has also participated in national and international conferences organized by DST-SERB, ANRF, and in global environmental initiatives like “Only One Earth – Save Our Mother Earth” held in Mexico City.

The Scientific Laurels Young Researcher Award celebrates emerging scientists who demonstrate innovation, integrity, and social commitment in their research. Sr. Anju’s recognition is a proud moment for the Catholic academic community and a powerful witness of how consecrated life can engage creatively in scientific research and environmental advocacy.

“Her achievement is not only a recognition of scientific excellence but also a testimony of faith in action — uniting intellectual pursuit with the care of God’s creation,” said a faculty member at the University of Madras.

Heartfelt congratulations to Rev. Sr. Anju Maria Joseph for this remarkable achievement and for her inspiring contribution to both science and faith.

Source: Scientific Laurels – Biography of Ms. Anju Maria Joseph