The Tamil Scientist
Mentoring the next generation scientists | Nurturing scientific temperament among the public through science communication
The Tamil Scientist is a science communication brand founded by Dr Kanmani Chandra Rajan, an interdisciplinary scientist and science communicator from Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, India. Having built an international career in STEMM, she created the brand to make science accessible, share scientific knowledge, and inspire the next generation of researchers.
The name 'Tamil Scientist' reflects her roots in Tamil Nadu and her commitment to making scientific knowledge more accessible. The brand currently communicates science in English, with plans to expand its reach to Tamil-speaking audiences in the future.
As a first-generation PhD holder who navigated the challenges of building a scientific career, Dr Chandra Rajan understands the barriers that students can face when pursuing research opportunities. This inspired her to establish The Tamil Scientist Mentoring Programme, which supports students in India with PhD and fellowship applications and provides guidance on navigating doctoral research.
About Dr Kanmani Chandra Rajan
Dr Kanmani Chandra Rajan is an interdisciplinary scientist with academic training in biotechnology and biological sciences. She holds a BTech and MTech in Biotechnology from Anna University Chennai, India and a PhD in Biological Sciences from The University of Hong Kong. Her research spans environmental change, marine biology, conservation and animal health, giving her a multidisciplinary perspective on biological systems and the connections between environmental, animal and human health.
Her research has investigated the effects of climate change on oyster biomineralisation and explored conservation applications through the development of a shark fin-based species identification method to help combat illegal wildlife trade. She has also contributed to animal health and infectious disease research, strengthening her understanding of the One Health approach. Across these areas, she applies scientific analysis and evidence synthesis to investigate complex questions and generate insights relevant to environmental and conservation challenges.
Her research track record includes over £30,000 in independent research funding, more than seven peer-reviewed publications, and international fellowships, including the FSBI Postdoctoral Fellowship and the Khorana Fellowship. She has also led knowledge exchange activities for a Hong Kong oyster hatchery and research unit, engaging government officers, oyster farmers, students and the public.
Beyond research, Dr Chandra Rajan has over seven years of experience communicating science through digital content, social media and public engagement. Her science communication platforms reach more than 5,000 followers across platforms, with average monthly views of 50,000. She also volunteers with Mothers in Science, a global nonprofit supporting career retention and work-life integration in STEMM.
Her interests lie at the intersection of environmental science, climate change, conservation, evidence-based decision-making and science communication. Through her research, communication and mentoring, she aims to bridge scientific knowledge and society, support informed decisions, and make scientific careers more accessible to the next generation.