Prof. Dr. Chitra KC: Professor at University of Calicut, India
Dr. K. C. Chitra is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Zoology at the University of Calicut, Kerala, India, with nearly two decades of teaching and research experience. Her work primarily focuses on reproductive endocrinology and toxicology, where she has made pioneering contributions to understanding how environmental pollutants and endocrine disruptors affect animal physiology. A dedicated academic and researcher, Dr. Chitra has mentored numerous M.Phil. and Ph.D. scholars and has been actively involved in advancing zoological education and research infrastructure at her institution. Her extensive publication record, coupled with a deep commitment to environmental health sciences, has earned her national and international recognition in the field of toxicological research.
Online Profiles
Dr. Chitra actively maintains several academic profiles to disseminate her research and connect with global collaborators. Her Google Scholar profile records 3281 citations (1212 since 2020), an h-index of 21 (16 since 2020), and an i10-index of 54 (39 since 2020), reflecting the enduring impact and relevance of her publications. She also engages with the international research community through ResearchGate and ORCID, promoting open science and visibility for her work in endocrinology, toxicology, and environmental health.
Education
Dr. K. C. Chitra holds a Ph.D. and M.Phil. in Life Sciences (Zoology) from the prestigious School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, where she specialized in Reproductive Endocrinology and Toxicology. Her doctoral and postgraduate research laid a strong foundation in the study of hormonal regulation, toxic responses, and physiological adaptations. She completed her M.Sc. in Zoology with specialization in Endocrinology from Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, and earned her B.Sc. in Zoology from the University of Madras. This academic progression has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of biological systems, from molecular mechanisms to organismal physiology, guiding her toward a successful career in both teaching and research.
Research Focus
Dr. Chitra’s research is centered on the interdisciplinary fields of Endocrinology and Toxicology, with particular emphasis on how chemical contaminants and endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) affect animal reproductive health and biochemical integrity. Her work investigates hormonal imbalances, oxidative stress, cellular damage, and alterations in enzymatic activities caused by various pollutants, including pesticides, plastics, and industrial chemicals. She employs biochemical, molecular, and histological techniques to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these toxic effects, contributing to the development of biomarkers for environmental monitoring. Her studies provide valuable insights into ecological risk assessment and the conservation of aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity in polluted ecosystems.
Experience
Beginning her academic journey at the University of Calicut as a Lecturer in 2006, Dr. Chitra has progressed through the ranks of Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and now Professor, a position she has held since April 2021. Over her 19 years of experience, she has taught a wide range of postgraduate subjects, including Endocrinology, Cell Biology and Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biostatistics, Insect Physiology, and Biochemistry. Her teaching philosophy integrates research-based learning, fostering critical thinking and scientific curiosity among students. In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Chitra has actively served on several university committees, contributed to the establishment of research facilities, and coordinated academic initiatives under the RUSA (PM-USHA) program. Her mentorship has resulted in the successful completion of six Ph.D. and seven M.Phil. theses, with several more ongoing.
Research Timeline & Activities
Dr. Chitra began her research career exploring the intricate hormonal mechanisms governing reproduction in vertebrates. Over time, her focus expanded toward environmental toxicology, where she investigates the adverse effects of synthetic chemicals on animal systems. She has led a Science Research Scheme project funded by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE), examining the biochemical and reproductive impacts of pollutants. Her research output includes over 130 peer-reviewed publications, five book chapters, and numerous conference presentations at national and international levels. Beyond publishing, she serves as a reviewer for leading scientific journals such as Chemosphere, Reproductive Toxicology, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, and Fish Physiology and Biochemistry, ensuring quality and integrity in scientific communication. Her continuous engagement with research communities reflects her commitment to advancing toxicological science and environmental sustainability.
Awards & Honors
Throughout her academic career, Dr. Chitra has been recognized for her scholarly excellence, scientific leadership, and service to higher education. She serves as a Subject Expert Member on the Research Advisory Committee of Mahatma Gandhi University and holds multiple administrative positions at the University of Calicut, including Coordinator of the RUSA (PM-USHA) program and member of the Central Sophisticated Instrumentation Facility Purchase Committee. Her expertise has been sought by various boards and commissions, including the Union and Kerala Public Service Commissions, as an expert interviewer and assessor. These distinctions reflect not only her scientific achievements but also her dedication to academic governance, capacity building, and policy-making in the higher education sector.
Top Noted Publication
Among her many influential publications, one of Dr. Chitra’s most cited works, with over 560 citations, examines the toxicological impacts of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on fish reproductive systems, shedding light on how environmental pollutants interfere with hormonal and developmental processes. This study, published in a high-impact journal, is frequently referenced for its detailed experimental design and ecological relevance. Her broader body of work, appearing in reputable journals such as Chemosphere, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, and Reproductive Toxicology, continues to inform environmental management policies and inspire further research into sustainable ecological practices.
“Bisphenol A induces reactive oxygen species generation in the liver of male rats” – V. Bindhumol, K. C. Chitra, P. P. Mathur, Toxicology, 188(2-3), 117-124, 2003. Citations: 578.
“Induction of oxidative stress by bisphenol A in the epididymal sperm of rats” – K. C. Chitra, C. Latchoumycandane, P. P. Mathur, Toxicology, 185(1-2), 119-127, 2003. Citations: 506.
“Effect of nonylphenol on the antioxidant system in epididymal sperm of rats” – K. Chitra, C. Latchoumycandane, P. Mathur, Archives of Toxicology, 76(9), 545-551, 2002. Citations: 183.
“The effect of methoxychlor on the epididymal antioxidant system of adult rats” – C. Latchoumycandane, K. C. Chitra, P. P. Mathur, Reproductive Toxicology, 16(2), 161-172, 2002. Citations: 142.
“Effect of lindane on testicular antioxidant system and steroidogenic enzymes in adult rats” – R. Sujatha, K. C. Chitra, C. Latchoumycandane, P. P. Mathur, Asian Journal of Andrology, 3(2), 135-138, 2001. Citations: 132.