science & LEADERSHIP
A Life in Science, Service, and Institutional Leadership
Dr. Ranjana Mehrotra is a senior scientist, academic leader, and former Chief Scientist and Head at CSIR–National Physical Laboratory (NPL), New Delhi, with over 45 years of experience spanning advanced research, national measurement standards, scientific governance, and mentorship.
Her career represents a rare integration of scientific excellence, institutional leadership, and ethical governance, with contributions across premier Indian institutions and international scientific collaborations.
Scientific Excellence & Research Contributions
Dr. Mehrotra’s research spans multiple interdisciplinary domains, with core expertise in:
- Mathematical modelling of cardiovascular systems
- Physico-Mechanical Metrology
- Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy & Near-Field Microscopy
- Biomedical and industrial spectroscopic applications
She established state-of-the-art research facilities at CSIR-NPL and successfully translated laboratory research into industry-relevant technologies, improving efficiency, quality, and societal outcomes.
Selected Impact Areas
- Industrial Applications
Her spectroscopic research enabled measurable improvements in productivity, quality control, and process stability in the sugar and textile industries, resulting in higher yields, reduced costs, and improved operational efficiency.
- Healthcare & Medical Diagnostics
Through advanced infrared spectroscopic studies, she contributed to the identification of biochemical markers for tumour diagnosis, supporting faster diagnostics and improved clinical decision-making in collaboration with Max Hospital, New Delhi.
- Fundamental Research
Her work on the interaction of anticancer drugs with DNA has helped elucidate molecular mechanisms of drug–DNA binding, contributing to the rational design of more effective and less toxic chemotherapeutic agents.
National Standards & Global Representation
As Head of multiple divisions at CSIR-NPL, Dr. Mehrotra was responsible for:
- Establishing and maintaining India’s National Measurement Standards
- Representing India in international and bilateral scientific comparisons
- Ensuring alignment with global metrology and quality frameworks
She has represented India in international standard-setting bodies and held leadership roles in global scientific organisations, strengthening India’s scientific standing worldwide.
Leadership, Governance & Policy
Beyond research, Dr. Mehrotra played a pivotal role in scientific administration and policy formulation at CSIR-NPL and CSIR Headquarters. Her responsibilities included:
- Heading multiple scientific divisions
- Chairing and serving on appointment and assessment committees
- Advising on national research priorities and institutional strategy
She also served as Chair of the Sexual Harassment Committees at CSIR Headquarters, CSIR-NPL, and CSIR-CSIO, helping establish systems rooted in fairness, transparency, and dignity, well before workplace safety became a mainstream focus.
Teaching, Mentorship & Capacity Building
Deeply committed to education and mentorship, Dr. Mehrotra has served as:
- Professor, Sharda University
- Professor, AcSIR (CSIR Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research)
She has supervised 25 Ph.D. and M.Tech scholars, published ~150 research papers, and delivered over 200 invited lectures nationally and internationally.
Her teaching spans research methodology, scientific writing, ethics, instrumentation, mathematical physics, and material characterisation, shaping generations of scientists and research leaders.