Eminent Chemists Conclave of Women Chemists organized at IISER Thiruvananthapuram. | Photo credit: Special arrangement
The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Thiruvananthapuram organized a two-day conclave of women chemists in collaboration with the Royal Society of Chemistry on the occasion of International Women’s Day. The programme, which concluded on Sunday (March 8, 2026), was organized under the theme “Women in Chemistry: Leadership, Innovation and Impact”.
Subhasis Chaudhuri, chairman of the Bombay Stock Exchange and former director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, attended the conclave as the chief guest. IISER Thiruvananthapuram founder director ED Jemmis and current director JN Moorthy, both eminent chemists, presided over the function.
Conceptualized by RS Swathi, Head, School of Chemistry, and Swetavalli Raghavan, Head, Innovation, Strategy and Government Affairs, Royal Society of Chemistry, the conclave brought together women chemists from 32 academic institutions across India.
The main outcome of the meeting was the establishment of the Women in Chemistry Council (WICC), dedicated to promoting the professional growth and leadership of female chemists. The council will focus on mentoring, leadership development, political engagement, innovation and community building within the chemical sciences.
WICC is also committed to championing equity and inclusivity in the chemical sciences by advocating for a supportive professional environment, celebrating the achievements of women chemists and encouraging more young women to pursue careers in chemistry.
Published – 8 March 2026 20:04 IST
