| Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Kelambakkam, Chennai | INDIA

Prof. Jayakar Thomas currently serves as Emeritus Professor and Director at Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Kelambakkam, Chennai, India. Throughout his illustrious career, he has held several prestigious academic and administrative positions, including:

  • Professor and Head, Department of Dermatology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai.
  • Professor and Head, Department of Dermatology, Thanjavur Medical College.
  • Head of Dermatology, Schieffelin Leprosy Research and Training Institute (SLRTI), Karigiri.
  • Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Stanley Medical College and Madras Medical College.
  • Medical Officer, Government Rehabilitation Home, Paranur.

His career reflects continuous dedication to medical education, patient care, dermatology training, and institutional leadership.

Research & Scientific Contributions

Prof. Thomas has made exceptional contributions to dermatological research with an extensive publication record spanning more than four decades.

His achievements include:

  • Over 190 scientific publications in national and international peer-reviewed journals.
  • Numerous landmark studies in psoriasis, pediatric dermatology, leprosy, fungal infections, urticaria, atopic dermatitis, pigmentary disorders, autoimmune skin diseases, teledermatology, dermatopathology, and rare dermatological disorders.
  • Author of numerous case reports, clinical studies, review articles, and multicenter research projects.
  • Pioneer in promoting teledermatology in India and among the early advocates of digital dermatology services.
  • Active contributor to dermatopathology and pediatric dermatology research.

His work continues to guide clinicians, researchers, and postgraduate students across India and abroad.

Editorial & Academic Leadership

Prof. Jayakar Thomas has played a major role in scientific publishing and academic dissemination through his editorial responsibilities.

His editorial contributions include:

  • Editor, Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology (IJDVL).
  • Editorial Board Member, Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology.
  • Associate Editor, Dermatologic Therapy (Wiley Publishers).
  • Chief Editor, IADVL Drug Formulary.
  • Editor, Journal of Applied Medicine & Surgery.
  • Editorial Board Member, Sudanese Journal of Dermatology.
  • Consulting Editor for educational publications on skin and hair care.

Books & Educational Contributions

Prof. Thomas has authored and edited several influential textbooks, atlases, and educational resources in dermatology and pediatric dermatology.

His academic contributions include chapters in:

  • IADVL Textbook of Dermatology
  • IAP Textbook of Pediatrics
  • Pediatric Therapy
  • Adolescent Medicine
  • Pediatric Dermatology Ward Rounds
  • Colour Atlas of Dermatophytoses
  • Psoriasis: A Closer Look
  • Year Book of Dermatology

These publications continue to serve as valuable references for dermatologists, pediatricians, postgraduate students, and healthcare professionals.

Professional Leadership

Prof. Jayakar Thomas has held several prestigious leadership positions, including:

  • President, Indian Society of Teledermatology.
  • Founder National Chairman, IAP Dermatology Group.
  • Leader in promoting pediatric dermatology and telemedicine initiatives across India.
  • Mentor to numerous dermatologists, postgraduate students, and researchers.

Awards & Honours

His outstanding contributions have been recognized through numerous national awards, including:

  • IADVL Fulford Oration Award.
  • National Glaxo Award.
  • National Hoechst Award.
  • K. Rajendran Memorial Awards.
  • Great Achiever of India Award.
  • 20th Century Excellence Award.
  • Mother Teresa International Award.
  • Bharath Jyothi Award.
  • KC Kandhari Lifetime Achievement Award.

These honors acknowledge his sustained excellence in clinical practice, medical education, research, and scientific leadership.

Areas of Expertise

  • Clinical Dermatology
  • Pediatric Dermatology
  • Psoriasis
  • Teledermatology
  • Dermatopathology
  • Leprosy
  • Autoimmune Skin Diseases
  • Pigmentary Disorders
  • Atopic Dermatitis
  • Fungal Infections
  • Urticaria
  • Hair Disorders
  • Dermatology Education

Eligibility for Lifetime Achievement Award

Prof. Jayakar Thomas is highly deserving of the Lifetime Achievement Award in Scientific Laurels in recognition of his extraordinary and sustained contributions to dermatological sciences over more than four decades. His distinguished career combines exemplary clinical service, pioneering research, exceptional academic leadership, and unwavering commitment to medical education. With an extensive portfolio of over 190 scientific publications, numerous authored textbooks and book chapters, editorial leadership in leading dermatology journals, pioneering work in teledermatology, and mentorship of generations of dermatologists, Prof. Thomas has made a profound impact on the advancement of dermatology in India and internationally. His numerous prestigious national awards, leadership roles in professional organizations, and lifelong dedication to improving patient care and scientific knowledge make him an exceptionally worthy recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in Scientific Laurels.