In the dynamic environment of IIT Madras, where academic innovation thrives, Prof. Debashis Chakraborty is a shining example of dedication to impactful research. With a career spanning global academia and industry, his contributions to organometallics, polymer chemistry, and CO₂ sequestration have not only advanced scientific understanding but also laid a foundation for India’s growth in synthetic biopolymer technology. While he hasn’t launched a startup, his groundbreaking work and mentorship are shaping a new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators in the field.
A Career Built on a Passion for Science
Prof. Chakraborty’s journey began with a doctorate from the University of Göttingen, Germany, where he was mentored by the eminent Professor Dr. Herbert W. Roesky. Postdoctoral stints in fluorine chemistry at the University of Idaho and collaborative research between Colorado State University and Dow Chemical Company further enriched his expertise.
Returning to India in 2003, he led corporate research groups in prominent pharmaceutical companies before joining the Department of Chemistry at IIT Madras in 2005. Over the years, his work has earned him numerous accolades, including being recognized in the 33rd Edition of Marquis Who’s Who in the World and receiving the prestigious Atal Achievement Award in 2024.
Through his career, Prof. Chakraborty has pursued research with one central belief: “Research is like the mother of futuristic modern technologies.” It’s this conviction that drives his work, particularly in synthetic biopolymers—a sector with immense potential yet limited industrial development in India.
The Genesis of a Mission
While Prof. Chakraborty does not currently head a startup, his mission to advance biopolymer synthesis is no less entrepreneurial. His research focuses on creating environmentally sustainable polymers such as PLA (polylactic acid), PPC (polypropylene carbonate), and PBAT (polybutylene adipate terephthalate). These materials hold the promise of replacing conventional plastics, addressing both environmental challenges and India’s dependence on imports.
One of his most notable achievements is the development of an indigenous batch process for PLA synthesis and PPC synthesis using CO₂. This innovation not only leverages India’s rich scientific talent but also aligns with the nation’s vision of reducing carbon emissions and waste.
For me, the mission is clear, Prof. Chakraborty states. “A self-reliant India, where research translates into industrial impact.”
Mentoring the Next Wave of Innovators
Prof. Chakraborty’s contributions extend beyond his own research. As a seasoned academic, he is deeply invested in mentoring young entrepreneurs and startups in the biopolymer space. “I am ready to mentor startup companies in the area of biopolymer synthesis,” he shares.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, working with Prof. Chakraborty provides a unique opportunity to access technical expertise while gaining insights into the importance of intellectual property. His advice to young innovators is clear: “They must develop products from inception to manufacturing levels, with an additional aim of securing intellectual wealth.”
Overcoming Challenges in Research
Every visionary faces obstacles, and Prof. Chakraborty’s journey is no different. Among the most significant challenges he cites is the difficulty of securing extramural funding for research in India. Despite these hurdles, the academic freedom offered at IIT Madras—a top-ranking institution —has provided the ideal environment for his groundbreaking work.
“The ability to pursue research involving passionate problems is what makes this institution unique,” he says. This supportive environment has allowed him to not only overcome funding constraints but also achieve significant milestones in his field.
Milestones and Recognition
The development of indigenous processes for PLA and PPC synthesis represents a breakthrough in India’s efforts to establish a robust biopolymer industry. These achievements underscore Prof. Chakraborty’s ability to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application.
His work has garnered widespread recognition, including his election as a Fellow of the International Association of Advanced Materials (Sweden) and the Science Frontier Research Council (UK). He is also a Chartered Scientist registered with the Science Council (UK) and a Life Fellow of the Indian Chemical Society.
However, among these accolades, Prof. Chakraborty considers the Atal Achievement Award in 2024 a proud moment. It serves as a testament to the societal impact of his research, reinforcing his commitment to creating solutions for global and local challenges.
The Road Ahead: Building a Self-Reliant India
Looking to the future, Prof. Chakraborty envisions India emerging as a global leader in synthetic biopolymers. While he has no immediate plans to launch a startup, he sees himself playing a pivotal role in mentoring entrepreneurs and fostering collaborations between academia and industry.
“In the next five years, I hope to see more indigenous technologies being scaled and commercialized,” he shares. His vision aligns with national priorities, emphasizing sustainability, self-reliance, and intellectual property development.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Prof. Chakraborty’s journey offers invaluable lessons for young innovators. He stresses the importance of perseverance, intellectual property, and a holistic approach to product development. “From inception to manufacturing, the journey requires clarity, dedication, and resilience,” he advises.
He also highlights the role of mentorship, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to seek guidance from experts who can provide technical, strategic, and operational insights.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Impact
Prof. Debashis Chakraborty’s career is a testament to the power of research-driven innovation. Through his groundbreaking work in biopolymers and commitment to mentorship, he is not only advancing science but also nurturing the next generation of innovators.
His story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to create meaningful impact, whether in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship. To learn more about his journey or explore collaboration opportunities, visit his website or connect with him on LinkedIn.
In Prof. Chakraborty’s words, “Research is the bridge to the future—one that India must not only cross but lead.”