The scientific journey of Athipettah Jayakrishnan began with an early fascination for chemistry and its potential to shape modern medicine. He completed his Master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Calicut in 1975, demonstrating both analytical skill and creative thinking. Driven by a passion for advanced research, he pursued doctoral studies at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, earning his Ph.D. in 1980.
His training at IIT Madras played a decisive role in shaping his future direction. Surrounded by a vibrant academic environment and mentors who emphasized interdisciplinary thinking, Athipettah Jayakrishnan developed a keen interest in polymer science—a field that merges chemistry, materials science, and biomedical engineering.
Athipettah Jayakrishnan: International Exposure and Research Expansion
After completing his doctoral studies, Athipettah Jayakrishnan expanded his academic horizons through global collaborations. His postdoctoral research at the University of Florida marked a turning point in his career. During this period, he contributed to the development of ultraviolet light-absorbing intraocular lenses—an innovation that would later be commercialized worldwide and implanted in millions of patients suffering from vision impairment.
He further enriched his scientific perspective through visiting appointments at renowned institutions such as the University of Paris-Sud in France, Toyo University in Japan, and the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom. These international experiences deepened his understanding of biomaterials science and reinforced his commitment to cross-border collaboration in research and innovation.
Groundbreaking Contributions to Biomaterials and Polymer Chemistry
Athipettah Jayakrishnan’s research career is distinguished by its practical relevance and transformative impact. As Head of the Polymer Chemistry Division at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) in Thiruvananthapuram, he focused on creating advanced materials designed for medical applications.
Ultraviolet Light-Absorbing Intraocular Lenses
One of his most influential contributions emerged from his postdoctoral work—the development of intraocular lenses capable of filtering harmful ultraviolet radiation. These lenses improved patient safety and visual outcomes after cataract surgery, becoming widely adopted across the world.
Plasticizer Migration Research
Athipettah Jayakrishnan also conducted pioneering studies on the migration of plasticizers from flexible PVC medical devices. Published in the prestigious journal Nature, this research addressed critical safety concerns in medical equipment, influencing design standards and regulatory discussions.
Innovative Biomedical Patents
With approximately nine to twelve patents to his credit, he contributed significantly to biomedical innovation. His patented processes include the preparation of hydrogel beads and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres—materials widely used in drug delivery and surgical applications.
Current Research Focus
Even in later stages of his career, Athipettah Jayakrishnan continues to explore emerging areas such as antibacterial polymer surfaces, surgical adhesives, and in-situ forming wound dressings. These research themes highlight his ongoing dedication to healthcare solutions that address real-world challenges.
Athipettah Jayakrishnan: Academic Leadership – Guiding Institutions Toward Excellence
Beyond his laboratory achievements, Athipettah Jayakrishnan demonstrated remarkable administrative leadership. As the 19th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kerala from 2008 to 2012, he guided the institution through a period of academic modernization and research expansion. His tenure emphasized quality education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and stronger links between universities and industry.
He also held significant academic roles at IIT Madras and Cochin University of Science and Technology, influencing curriculum development and mentoring the next generation of scientists. Colleagues often describe him as a leader who balanced academic rigor with empathy, encouraging students and faculty to pursue bold ideas.
Scholarly Impact and Publications
Athipettah Jayakrishnan’s academic influence extends through his extensive publication record. With over 75 research papers in international journals—including contributions to Nature—he helped shape global discourse in polymer chemistry and biomaterials science. His editorial involvement with the respected international journal Biomaterials reflects his commitment to advancing scientific communication and maintaining high research standards.
Honors, Fellowships, and Recognition
Recognition for Athipettah Jayakrishnan’s work has come from both national and international communities. He is a Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences (FASc) and the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), two of India’s most prestigious scientific institutions. Among his numerous honors are the Materials Research Society of India Medal, awarded in 1997 and the IIT Madras Distinguished Alumnus Award.