In the ever-evolving world of science and technology, there are individuals whose quiet dedication and relentless pursuit of knowledge spark revolutions in thought and practice. Prof. Debashis Chakraborty, a leading figure at the Department of Chemistry, IIT Madras, is one such individual. His journey, defined by a deep-rooted commitment to scientific discovery and national progress, offers not just a blueprint for impactful research, but also an inspiring story of how one person can drive change from within the academic realm.
Prof. Debashis Chakraborty life’s work centers around biopolymer research, an area increasingly critical in today’s world striving for sustainability. What makes his contributions stand out is not just their scientific merit, but their alignment with the broader vision of a self-reliant India. Through his innovations in polymer chemistry and his role as a mentor, he is nurturing a new generation of researchers and entrepreneurs who will carry forward the torch of indigenous innovation.
An Academic Journey Rooted in Curiosity and Purpose
Prof. Debashis Chakraborty began his scientific journey with a doctorate from the University of Göttingen in Germany, where he studied under the guidance of the renowned Professor Dr. Herbert W. Roesky. This early phase of his career was marked by rigorous training in organometallics and fluorine chemistry, laying a strong foundation for future work. Postdoctoral collaborations at the University of Idaho, Colorado State University, and Dow Chemical Company exposed him to global perspectives and advanced methodologies that would later enrich his contributions back home.
In 2003, he returned to India, motivated by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the country’s scientific ecosystem. Initially leading corporate research groups in pharmaceutical companies, he transitioned to academia in 2005, joining IIT Madras. Since then, he has combined the precision of industrial research with the creative freedom of academia, producing work that is both intellectually rigorous and socially relevant.
Fueling India’s Sustainable Future with Biopolymers
While Prof. Debashis Chakraborty has not launched a startup himself, his work exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship. His focus lies in the synthesis of biopolymers such as PLA (polylactic acid), PPC (polypropylene carbonate), and PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate). These materials, which are biodegradable and eco-friendly, represent a much-needed alternative to conventional plastics. In a world grappling with environmental degradation, his research holds the key to reducing plastic pollution while also minimizing dependence on imports.
Among his notable achievements is the development of indigenous batch processes for synthesizing PLA and PPC, the latter utilizing CO₂ as a raw material. These innovations are not only technological milestones but are also aligned with India’s climate commitments. By converting CO₂, a major greenhouse gas, into useful materials, Prof. Debashis Chakraborty work exemplifies the kind of circular economy solutions that modern science must strive for.
A Mentor with a Mission
What sets Prof. Debashis Chakraborty apart is his unwavering commitment to mentoring young minds. He sees himself not just as a researcher but as a guide for the next generation of scientists and entrepreneurs. In his words:
“I am ready to mentor startup companies in the area of biopolymer synthesis.”
This mentorship goes beyond technical support. He encourages a holistic approach to innovation—one that begins with idea generation and carries through to product development, manufacturing, and intellectual property protection. In an era where the commercialization of research is crucial, Prof. Chakraborty’s insights serve as invaluable guidance for young innovators seeking to bridge the gap between lab and market.
Conquering the Challenges of Indian Research Ecosystems
Every visionary journey comes with its set of challenges. For Prof. Debashis Chakraborty, one of the biggest hurdles has been securing consistent funding for research, a challenge that many Indian scientists face. Despite these difficulties, the supportive environment of IIT Madras has allowed him to thrive. The institution’s emphasis on academic freedom has enabled him to explore problems that are both scientifically significant and nationally relevant.
Prof. Chakraborty’s perseverance is a lesson in resilience. He has turned adversity into opportunity, using limited resources to develop innovations that are now seen as critical to India’s technological future.
Accolades that Reflect a Deeper Impact
The scope and depth of Prof. Chakraborty’s work have earned him both national and international recognition. He has been named:
- Fellow of the International Association of Advanced Materials (Sweden)
- Fellow of the Science Frontier Research Council (UK)
- Chartered Scientist with the UK’s Science Council
- Life Fellow of the Indian Chemical Society
Perhaps the most meaningful recognition came in 2024, when he received the Atal Achievement Award. This award, celebrating societal impact through scientific excellence, encapsulates what his career has always stood for—using science as a vehicle for public good.
The Road to a Self-Reliant India
Looking ahead, Prof. Debashis Chakraborty envisions a future where India stands at the forefront of synthetic biopolymer technology. He imagines a thriving landscape where more indigenous technologies are not only developed but also scaled and commercialized. This vision is deeply intertwined with national priorities like Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and sustainability.
His approach is strategic yet grounded in values. He believes that self-reliance in science is not just about creating products locally but also about owning the intellectual property and ensuring that knowledge and innovation stay within the country’s borders.
Inspiration for Aspiring Innovators
For those just starting out on their scientific or entrepreneurial journey, Prof. Chakraborty offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. He emphasizes clarity of vision, depth of commitment, and the importance of seeing a product through from conception to commercialization.
He also stresses the critical role of mentorship and urges young entrepreneurs to seek out guidance.
“The journey requires clarity, dedication, and resilience,”
— words that echo the lived experience of someone who has navigated both the highs and lows of scientific life.
A Legacy of Purposeful Innovation
Prof. Debashis Chakraborty’s story is one of purpose, perseverance, and passion. He stands as a powerful example of how academic research can transcend the laboratory and touch lives, influence policy, and shape industries. His unwavering focus on sustainability, mentorship, and national development makes him not just a scientist, but a builder of India’s future.
“Research is the bridge to the future—one that India must not only cross but lead.”
— Prof. Debashis Chakraborty
As the country moves toward greater scientific and industrial self-reliance, Prof. Debashis Chakraborty contributions will remain a cornerstone of that journey.
