Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan is a globally recognized scientist and academician with over three decades of leadership in cell and molecular biology, stem cell research, and nutritional science. Currently serving as Director of Research at Movva Health Care LLP, she previously held a distinguished position as Scientist 'G' and Head of Department at the National Institute of Nutrition, ICMR, where she led pioneering research in regenerative medicine and stem cell applications. Her work bridges the interface between nutrition, developmental biology, and regenerative therapeutics, making her an esteemed voice in translational medicine.

Significant Achievements

• Publications: Authored over 110 peer-reviewed scientific articles and 6 book chapters, contributing extensively to global scientific knowledge.

• Patents:

  • Granted: 2 (including 1 US Patent)

  • Filed: 2 Indian patents under technology development

• Fellowships & Recognitions:

  • FAMS, National Academy of Medical Sciences (2022)

  • Fellow, Telangana Academy of Sciences (2019)

  • Fellow, Academy of Science Communication and Technology (2025)

  • Member, Asia Pacific Association of Scientific Research

Notable Contributions

Key Research Areas

• Nutritional & Regenerative Medicine:

  • Investigated the role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in mitigating diabetes, obesity, and musculoskeletal disorders, especially knee osteoarthritis.

  • Developed preclinical models for understanding micronutrient deficiencies affecting fetal programming and adult disease (DOHaD paradigm).

• Nutraceutical Innovation:

  • Explored gingerol and shogaol (bioactive components from ginger) in metabolic health and cartilage protection.

• Translational Research & Regulatory Framework:

  • Collaborated with universities, hospitals, and public health sectors to implement stem cell-based solutions and guided the establishment of GMP-compliant MSC production facilities as per NDCT 2019.

Academic Leadership & Policy Roles

• Member and Chair of multiple national committees including:

  • ICMR Task Forces, CSIR project review boards, and Institutional Stem Cell Committees (IC-SCR) across reputed institutes such as VIT, KIMS, AIG, and HCU.

  • Chairperson for project evaluation on diabetes, oral health, and nutraceutical innovation.

• Adjunct and advisory faculty roles at institutions like Sri Satya Sai Institute for Higher Learning and Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education.

Global Representation and Awards

• Represented India at major global scientific platforms including:

  • Keystone Symposium (USA) – Sponsored by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (2017)

  • World Congresses on DOHaD – Singapore (2013), Melbourne (2019)

  • ICMR International Fellowship – Karolinska Institute, Sweden (2011)

  • Rockefeller Fellowship, and multiple ICMR-sponsored international travels

• Honored with:

  • Asian Admirable Achievers Award (2024)

  • Woman of Excellence Award (2023)

  • Innovative Healthcare Leadership Award (2023)

  • Outstanding Scientist Award (2022)

  • Venus International Award in Biochemistry and Stem Cell Research (2023)

Eligibility for Distinguished Researcher Award

With her profound impact on regenerative medicine, nutritional biology, and translational healthcare innovation, Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan is an exemplary candidate for the Distinguished Researcher Award under Scientific Laurels. Her cross-disciplinary expertise, global collaborations, prolific publications, and policy-shaping leadership solidify her position as one of India’s foremost scientific figures in biomedical research.