It was Lewis Leigh Fermor, a British chemist and geologist, who visualized the idea behind setting up the Indian National Science Academy in the year 1935. It was formerly known as the National Institute of Sciences of India.
At present, it is the apex body of Indian scientists representing all branches of science and technology. One would have thought it quite impossible for a 66-year-old woman to head the great Academy after a gap of 85 long years. But it was destined to happen. Biologist Chandrima Shaha will take charge, on January 1, 2020.
Her research focused on understanding communication pathways for cell death. She worked extensively on the precise mechanism of cell death and how this process is regulated by signalling pathways in unicellular and multicellular models. Understanding how these cells die can help treat various diseases.
Concerned with the noticeable scarcity of women in research fellowships in the country’s science academies, Shaha felt it was time for women to come forward and prove their mettle. Her selection and appointment at the topmost level fill up this void to a considerable extent.