Biography
Nawaraj Parajuli is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geology at Tribhuvan University (T.U), Nepal's oldest and largest public university, where he has served since 2021. Through its extensive network of constituent campuses and affiliated colleges, Tribhuvan University educates nearly 78% of Nepal's higher education students, making it the country's leading institution for higher education, research, and academic excellence. His expertise encompasses structural geology, engineering geology, and applied geosciences. He has authored peer-reviewed scientific publications and actively contributes to teaching, research, geological field investigations, and national mineral resource studies. His academic and professional work is dedicated to advancing geoscience through field-based learning, research-oriented teaching, and scientific investigations that contribute to structural geological research, engineering geological practice, mineral resource exploration and assessment, geohazard evaluation, and sustainable infrastructure development in Nepal, while promoting evidence-based geological research and the sustainable management of the nation's geological and mineral resources.
- Name: Nawaraj Parajuli
- Institution Website: www.tu.edu.np
- Phone: +9779841631110
- City: Pokhara, Nepal
- Job: Assistant Professor / Geologist
- Degree: M.Sc. in Geology (T.U)
- Email: [email protected]
- Field: Geology, Earth Science
Research & Projects Geological mapping, engineering geological investigations, mineral exploration, geological hazard assessment, and applied geoscience research
Years of experience 9
International Colaboration Collaborative research on landslide mapping and engineering geology, and field instruction for international students during geological field courses along the Kali-Gandaki River, Nepal.
Professional Expertise University teaching, geological field investigations, geological mapping, engineering geology, and mineral resource studies
Resume
Education:
M.Sc. in Geology
Central Department of Geology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
M.Sc. Thesis on "Stratigraphy and Structure of Tectonic Window and Adjoining Area in Panchthar and Taplejung Districts of Eastern Nepal."
Teaching Experience:
Assistant Professor
Bachelor in Science, Department of Geology, Prithvi Narayan Campus 2021 - Present
- Teaching Responsibilities: Delivering instruction in various geology courses, including Structural Geology, Petrology, Stratigraphy, Geology of Nepal Himalaya, and Climate Change.
- Laboratory and Fieldwork: Directing and supervising lab studies and fieldwork projects on an annual basis, providing students with practical hands-on experience in geological research and field exploration.
- 15 days field work for B.Sc. Geology 3rd year students in Malekhu section of Dadhing district of Nepal in each year.
- 28 days field work for B.Sc. Geology 4th year along Siddhartha Highway of Nepal in each year covering geological mapping, enigneering geology, mining geology and hydrogeology.
Field Lecturer
Summer Program, SIT Study Abroad: GeoScience in Himalayas, 2022-2023
- Geo-hazard in Pokhara Valley
- Geological mapping along Kaligandaki River, western Nepal
Professional Experience:
Engineering Geologist
Sanima Hydro and Engineering Pvt. Ltd, 2019 - 2020
- Consult with the Contractor's Engineers on various engineering geological activities
- Conduct Geological Mapping and Rock Class Classification to assess site conditions
- Played a pivotal role in the design of Slope Stabilization measures.
- Responsible for meticulously reviewing and signing bills for the Mathillo Mailung Khola Jalvidhyut Aayojana (14.3 MW) project, ensuring accurate financial documentation and adherence to project budgetary requirements.
- Contribute to the Tunnel and Slope Support Design for the Mathillo Mailung Khola Jalvidhyut Aayojana (14.3 MW) project located in Rasuwa, Nepal.
Geologist
PEES Consultant (P) Ltd., 2017 - 2018
- Geological Mapping and Mineral Exploration in Parts of Taplejung and Panchthar District.
Geologist
IRDS and TAEC Consult P. Ltd., 2018-2019
- Geological Mapping for Mineral Exploration in Parts of Rukum, Rolpa, Jarjarkot, and Salyam Districts of Nepal
International Collaboration:
Research Associate
Sajag Nepal Project, 2022- 2024
- Landslide investigation in different parts of Nepal and early warning system development for landslide.
Research Associate
Landslide EVO Project, 2018-2019
- Detail Landslide Investigation in Bajura and Baitadai, Far Western Nepal.
Teaching Experience
Structural Geology Theory and Practical (GEO.101 & GEO.102)
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of structural geology, focusing on the deformation of Earth's crust and the processes that shape geological structures. Through lectures and practical laboratory exercises, students develop skills in measuring and interpreting geological structures, reading and constructing geological maps and cross-sections, stereographic projection, stress and strain analysis, structural interpretation, and the identification of folds, faults, joints, unconformities, and other deformation features. Practical sessions emphasize the interpretation of structural data, the analysis of geological maps and cross-sections, and the application of stereographic projection techniques to solve structural geology problems. The course equips students with a strong theoretical foundation and analytical skills essential for engineering geology, mineral exploration, geotechnical investigations, geological mapping, and advanced studies in Earth sciences.
Petrology Theory and Lab (GEO.201 & GEO.202)
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the origin, classification, composition, and evolution of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory exercises, and petrographic analysis using polarizing microscopes, students develop practical skills in rock and mineral identification, thin-section interpretation, and the analysis of mineral assemblages, textures, and rock-forming processes. The course emphasizes the relationship between rock characteristics and the geological processes that shape Earth's crust, enabling students to interpret petrogenesis, tectonic environments, and Earth's geological history. By integrating theoretical knowledge with hands-on laboratory training, students gain the analytical and observational skills essential for careers in geology, mineral exploration, engineering geology, geotechnical investigations, and geological research.
Stratigraphy and Geology of Nepal, Lab and Fieldwork (GEO.301, GEO.302a, & GEO.302b)
This course introduces students to the stratigraphic succession, tectonic setting, and geological evolution of the Nepal Himalaya. Laboratory sessions emphasize rock and mineral identification, petrographic observations, stratigraphic correlation, and geological interpretation, while fieldwork enables students to examine rock units, geological structures, and stratigraphic relationships firsthand. The course strengthens students' ability to interpret geological processes and reconstruct the geological history of Nepal through integrated classroom, laboratory, and field experiences. Students also develop skills in geological mapping, field observation, and the interpretation of stratigraphic and structural data collected during field investigations. These competencies provide a strong foundation for advanced studies and professional careers in geology, engineering geology, mineral exploration, and geoscience research.
Exploration Geology and Mining Geology Theory and Lab (GEO.401, GEO.402), Engineering Geology Theory and Lab (GEO.403, GEO.404) and Fieldwork (GEO.406)
Together, these courses bridge theoretical concepts with laboratory and field-based learning, enabling students to develop practical skills in geological mapping, rock and soil characterization, stratigraphic interpretation, engineering site investigations, and geohazard assessment. They prepare students for professional careers in engineering geology, geotechnical engineering, mineral and groundwater exploration, environmental geology, and natural resource management, while promoting the safe, resilient, and sustainable development of civil infrastructure in diverse geological settings.
Publication and Conference
Publications and participation in national and international conferences.
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Publications
- Karki K., Sapkota G.R., Kandel P.U., Baral R.R., Parajuli N., Acharya K.K., Dhital M.R. Geological Mapping with Emphasis on Sedimentary Structures Around Rukumkot and Naigad Area in Rukum (East), Western Nepal. Journal of Development Innovations, 9(2), 1–21 (2025).
- Dhital M.R., Parajuli N. A Thick Quartzite Succession in the Lesser Himalaya of Pokhara–Baglung Area: Implications for the Stratigraphy of Kuncha Formation (2025). Conference Paper. 11th Nepal Geological Congress (NGC–XI), Kathmandu, Nepal.
- Khatiwada D., Parajuli N. (2025). Hazards within the Quaternary Sediments along the Seti Nadi: A Case Study from Suklagandaki, Tanahu, Nepal. Journal of Development Innovations, 9(1), 6–21.
- Parajuli N., Khatiwada D. (2025). Geotourism along the Annapurna Mountain Range. Geotourism/Geoturystyka, 21, 83–93. https://doi.org/10.7494/geotour.2024.3-4(78-79).831
- Parajuli N., Dhital M.R., Khatiwada D. Stress, Strain and Deformation in Brittle and Ductile Rocks of the Taplejung Tectonic Window, Eastern Nepal (2025). Preprint.
- Sapkota G.R., Dhital M.R., Acharya K.K., Karki K., Baral R.R., Kandel P.U., Parajuli N. (2024). Lithostratigraphy and Structure of the Musikot–Khalanga Area, Western Nepal Himalaya. Journal of Development Innovations, 8(2), 41–65.
- Duwadi S., Adhikari D.P., Dhital M.R., Parajuli N. (2024). Assessment of the 2021 debris flow and flood related loss and damage in Melamchi Watershed of Central Nepal. Journal of Nepal Hydrogeological Association, 1(1), 107–134. https://doi.org/10.3126/jnha.v1i1.78226
- Conference Presentations
- Presented a paper titled “A Thick Quartzite Succession in the Lesser Himalaya of the Pokhara–Baglung Area: Implications for the Stratigraphy of the Kuncha Formation” at the 11th Nepal Geological Congress (NGC–XI) on “Geosciences for Climate Change Adaptation, Natural Resources, and Geo-hazard Management”, held at Everest Hotel, Kathmandu, Nepal, in March 2025.
- Virtually participated in the International Conference of the American Geophysical Union (AGU) presenting “Tectonic Imprints on Rocks of the Taplejung Tectonic Window of Eastern Nepal.” Held in Washington, D.C., USA (Dec 9–13, 2024).
- Presented “Geotourism along the Annapurna Mountain Range” at the 2nd International Conference on Sustainable Mountain Development and Tourism and the International River Congress, Pokhara, Nepal.
- Presented “Engineering Geological Controls on Geo-disasters in Parts of Pokhara Valley” at the RTSTI-2023 Conference, Pokhara, Nepal (May 25–26, 2023).
- Participated in the 35th Himalayan–Karakoram–Tibet (HKT) Workshop (Nov 2–4, 2022).
- Participated in the 9th Nepal Geological Congress (NGC-IX) (Nov 19–21, 2018).
Nepal Himalaya Geological Field Work
B.Sc. Geology first and second-year students conducting a one-day geological fieldwork excursion in the Annapurna Mountain Range, gaining practical exposure to fundamental field geology concepts and observing the region’s diverse geological features in a natural setting
Introduction to Topography and Attitude of Beds | Kaski Nepal Year 2021
Amidst the whispers of the natural world, third-year B.Sc. geology students immerse themselves in the art of scientific storytelling, weaving their experiences and insights into the intricate tapestry of a geological field report, capturing the essence of their journey through the Earth's ancient narrative
Camp work | Dhading Nepal Year 2022
Beneath the open sky, students embarked on a geological field expedition, tracing millions of years of Earth's history preserved within the Tertiary sedimentary beds. Through careful observation of rock layers, sedimentary structures, and stratigraphic relationships, they connected classroom concepts with real-world geological processes and landscape evolution.
Geological Mapping | Palpa Nepal Year 2020
Photograph taken during a geological fieldwork session at Malekhu, where students studied the geology of Central Nepal through direct observation of rock units, geological structures, stratigraphic relationships, and tectonic features, gaining practical field experience in geological mapping, interpretation, and field investigation techniques.
Geological Mapping | Dhading Nepal Year 2024
Photograph taken during a field-based training session where students applied kinematic analysis, rock mass classification systems (RMR and Q-System), and rock support design principles to assess rock slope stability and underground excavation conditions, strengthening their practical skills in engineering geology and rock mechanics.
Engineering Geology | Syangja Nepal Year 2026
Field excursion to the dam and underground tunnel construction works of the 140 MW Tanahu Hydropower Project, providing students with practical exposure to engineering geological investigations, rock mass classification, slope stability analysis, and tunnel support design in hydropower projects.
Engineering Geology | Tanahu Nepal Year 2023
Geological Field Work Areas
Areas of Geological Investigation and Teaching Fieldwork
Gallery
Fieldwork, academic events, and geological experiences captured in images.
Sajag Nepal Project |Syangja Nepal Year 2024
11th Nepal Geological Congress (NGC–XI) |Kathmandu Nepal Year 2025
Department Visit |Pokhara Nepal Year 2023
Disaster |Tanahu Nepal Year 2024
Visit |Pokhara Nepal Year 2022
Talk Program |Department of Geology Year 2023
Contact Me
Nawaraj Parajuli
Assistant Professor, Department of Geology, Prithvi Narayan Campus, Institute of Science and Technology (IoST), Tribhuvan University, Nepal
