Prof. H. L. BHAT obtained his BSc degree from Mysore University and both MSc and PhD degrees from Sardar Patel University, Gujarat, India. He obtained his post Doctoral research training from Strathclyde University, Glasgow, UK. Dr. Bhat joined the Physics department of Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore as a Research Associate in 1973, and progressed steadily to become a professor in 1993. He was the chairman of this department during 2002-06. During 2006-08 he was a CSIR emeritus Scientist. Currently hs is a visiting professor at Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Bangalore. His research interests include crystal growth and crystal physics with special reference to ferroelectric, nonlinear optical, semiconductor and magnetic materials. He has over 200 research publications and produced 28 PhDs. He is a member of many professional bodies and currently the Joint Secretary of Materials Research Society of India.

Introduction. Principles of Crystal Growth. Techniques and Practice. Crystal Characterization. Concluding Remarks.