Washington, July 10 - Sanjay Kumar, an Indian American researcher at California University, Berkeley is among 100 beginning researchers named by President Batack Obama as recipients of the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers.

Kumar, 35, an assistant professor of bioengineering who studies cellular mechanics and biomaterials, and other awardees will receive the highest honour bestowed by the US government on young professionals at a White House ceremony in autumn.

'These extraordinarily gifted young scientists and engineers represent the best in our country,' Obama said. 'With their talent, creativity, and dedication, I am confident that they will lead their fields in new breakthroughs and discoveries and help us use science and technology to lift up our nation and our world.'

Winning scientists and engineers receive up to a five-year research grant to further their study in support of critical government missions.

Last year, Kumar received a National Institutes of Health (NIH) award honouring innovative new scientists.