Prof. Jayakar Thomas is a distinguished dermatologist and academician with several decades of experience in Dermatology, Venereology, Leprology, Pediatric Dermatology, and Teledermatology. He currently serves as Emeritus Professor and Director at Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Kelambakkam, Chennai, India. He has previously served as Professor and Head of Dermatology at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, and as Professor and Head of Dermatology at Thanjavur Medical College.

His professional career began as a Medical Officer at the Government Rehabilitation Home, Paranur, Chingleput (1981–1982). He subsequently served as Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Stanley Medical College (1984–1986) and Madras Medical College (1986–2000), followed by positions as Reader and Head of Dermatology at Thanjavur Medical College (2000–2002) and Head of Dermatology at SLRTI, Karigiri (2002–2008).

Leadership & Professional Contributions

Prof. Thomas has held several significant national and international leadership positions. He is the President of the Indian Society of Teledermatology and the Founder National Chairman of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics-Dermatology Group. He has also served as National President of the Indian Association of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology (IADVL), National Vice President of the Indian Society of Pediatric Dermatology, Vice-President of the International Society of Teledermatology, and President of the International Society of Teledermatology in 2012.

He has contributed to the organization and advancement of dermatology through major professional conferences, including serving as President and Chairman of the 35th National Conference of IADVL, Chennai (2007) and President and Chairman of the 2nd World Congress of Teledermatology, Chennai (2008).

Awards & Honours

His contributions to dermatology have been recognized through numerous awards and honours, including the IADVL-Fulford Oration Award (1990), National Glaxo Award for work on Topical Steroids (1991), National Hoechst Award for work on Anti-Fungals (1992), K. Rajendran Memorial Awards for work on Leprosy (1996) and Atopic Dermatitis (1997), Great Achiever of India (1998), 20th Century Excellence Award (1999), Mother Teresa International Award for Academic Excellence and Achievements in Dermatology (2000), Bharath Jyothi Award (2003), and KC Kandhari Lifetime Achievement Award (2007).

Research & Publications

Prof. Thomas has an established record of scholarly contributions, with 48 publications and 192 publications indexed in medical databases, reflecting sustained engagement in clinical research and academic dermatology. His professional interests have encompassed topical steroids, antifungal therapy, leprosy, atopic dermatitis, pediatric dermatology, and teledermatology.

Eligibility for Distinguished Scientist Award 

Prof. Jayakar Thomas demonstrates strong eligibility for the Distinguished Scientist Award in Scientific Laurels based on his extensive career in dermatology, longstanding academic and clinical contributions, national and international professional leadership, research publications, and recognition through multiple prestigious awards. His leadership in teledermatology and pediatric dermatology, combined with his contributions to dermatological research and professional organizations, represents a substantial body of scientific and academic achievement. His decades-long service to medical education, clinical practice, research, and professional advancement makes him a strong candidate for recognition under the Distinguished Scientist Award category.