Dr. Karnik retired as Vice President Innovation/R&D for NOVA Chemicals in 2022.  He is based in Calgary, Alberta and was responsible for the development and implementation of game changing technologies for the Ethylene and Polyethylene business, providing innovative solutions that enable safe reliable operations and providing sustainable polyethylene application developments. He was a member of the NOVA Leadership Council, Olefins and Polyethylene Business Teams and Responsible Care Council.

Subsequent to a teaching career, Dr Karnik joined NOVA Chemicals in 1991 as a Scientist in the Technology Organization. He has 40+ technical publications and 2 patents to his name. His experience includes leadership roles in the areas of R&D for the Gas Phase, LDPE and AST assets, R&D  pilot facilities, Catalyst Sales and Technology/Asset Strategy. 

He is a graduate of Bombay University and earned his Masters and PhD degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ottawa in 1983 and 1988 respectively.