Born on May 21, 1958, in Nagerkoil, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, Prof. Anandan Sankarasubramanian stands as one of India’s most respected and accomplished figures in the field of dermatology. With a career spanning over four decades, his journey reflects unwavering dedication to patient care, medical education, research, and institutional leadership.
Early Education and Academic Foundation
Prof. Anandan completed his schooling at SLB High School, Nagerkoil, and pursued his pre-university education at Scott Christian College. His passion for medicine led him to the prestigious Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry, where he obtained his MBBS degree in February 1981. Demonstrating academic brilliance, he went on to complete his Diploma in Dermatology (D.D.) in 1983 and subsequently earned his M.D. in Dermatology and STD in 1984. During this period, he also served as a Registrar at JIPMER, gaining invaluable clinical and academic experience.
Professional Journey and Institutional Leadership
Following his postgraduate training, Prof. Anandan served as Project Coordinator at VHS, Adyar, Chennai (1985–1986), where he played a pivotal role in a USAID-funded leprosy control program. His work involved large-scale surveys and the implementation of multidrug therapy across a population of nearly 200,000, along with specialized training at the Central Leprosy Teaching and Research Institute (CLTRI), Chengalpattu.
In December 1986, he joined Sri Ramachandra Medical College (SRMC), Porur, Chennai—an institution where he would leave an indelible legacy. Over the years, he served as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor, and ultimately Head of the Department of Dermatology, dedicating nearly 28 years as Professor and Head. His visionary leadership culminated in his appointment as Dean of SRMC & RI in 2008, a role he held until January 2023, during which he spearheaded academic expansion and the introduction of multiple postgraduate programs.
From January 2023, Prof. Anandan assumed the role of Dean of Students at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER). As of June 2024, he holds the prestigious title of Professor of Eminence, Department of Dermatology, SRIHER, reaffirming his stature as a luminary in Indian dermatology.
Teaching, Mentorship, and Academic Influence
A revered educator, Prof. Anandan brings 41 years of undergraduate and 38 years of postgraduate teaching experience. He has mentored generations of dermatologists and has served as guide and co-guide for numerous Ph.D. scholars. His expertise has been sought nationwide, serving as an examiner for premier institutions including AIIMS, JIPMER, PGI Chandigarh, and multiple universities across India.
Professional Leadership and Global Recognition
Prof. Anandan has played a significant leadership role within professional medical bodies. A distinguished member of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists (IADVL), he served as President of IADVL Tamil Nadu (2011–12) and as a Central Council Member. He has actively contributed to organizing national and regional conferences and has delivered over 100 invited guest lectures.
Internationally, his credentials include Fellowships with the American Academy of Dermatology, International Medical Sciences Academy (FIMSA), and the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons, reflecting his global standing in dermatology.
Awards, Publications, and Legacy
Prof. Anandan’s exemplary career has been recognized with numerous prestigious honors, including the Lifetime Achievement Award (IADVL Tamil Nadu, 2019), Teacher of Excellence Award (IADVL National Conference, Jaipur, 2012), Dr. Patrick Yesudian Oration (CUTICON TN, 2020), and the Dr. Schroff Memorial Award (Dermacon 2024).
A prolific academic contributor, he has authored 62 national and 9 international research papers and contributed chapters to leading dermatology textbooks such as the PG Textbook of Dermatology and Diseases of Oral Mucosa.
Conclusion
Prof. Anandan Sankarasubramanian’s career represents the highest standards of medical excellence, leadership, and mentorship. His enduring contributions have shaped dermatology education and clinical practice in India, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire students, professionals, and institutions alike.
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