Professor Palle Rama Rao stands as one of India’s most distinguished scientists, science policy advisors, and academic administrators, having served as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad during a crucial period of the institution’s development. Born in 1937, Professor Rama Rao’s journey from a young physics student to one of India’s most decorated metallurgists and educational leaders exemplifies excellence in Indian academia and scientific research.
Educational Foundation and Early Career
Professor Rama Rao built his academic foundation with remarkable diversity and depth. He completed his MA in Physics from Madras University, followed by an MSc in Nuclear Physics from Andhra University. His pursuit of knowledge led him to earn a PhD in Metallurgy from the Institute of Technology at Banaras Hindu University (now Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi). His postdoctoral research at the University of Pennsylvania during 1966-67 further expanded his international scientific perspective.
His academic career began at the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, where he joined the Faculty of the Department of Metallurgy in 1960. He subsequently moved to IIT (BHU) Varanasi in 1962 as a Lecturer, eventually rising to become Professor of Physical Metallurgy from 1975 to 1982. This period established him as a leading figure in metallurgical research in India.
Scientific Contributions and Research Excellence
Professor Rama Rao’s scientific contributions span several critical areas of metallurgy. He began his research career with X-ray diffraction studies of structural imperfections, developing new methods of analysis and verification of fault configurations in double hexagonal close-packed crystals. His work on high-temperature mechanical behaviour of metallic materials was pioneering in the Indian context, covering tensile, creep, fatigue, and fracture characteristics.
During his tenure at the Hyderabad Defence Laboratory, he led research-based alloy development, notably creating an ultrahigh strength high fracture toughness low alloy steel. His later research focused on understanding the effects of solutes on the mechanical properties of magnesium and its hot workability, as well as fundamental issues of fracture toughness in single-phase and dilute alloys.
His prolific research output includes approximately 160 journal papers, 30 edited volumes, and over 50 publications in conference proceedings, demonstrating his substantial contribution to the field of metallurgy.
Menhir excavation site on UoH campus
Professor and Mrs Rama Rao at the Menhir excavation site, UoH campus, on 24th January, 2001. The excavation was conducted by the State Department of Archaeology and Museums (SDAM), Govt. of Andhra Pradesh in collaboration with the Department of History, UoH.
Leadership at the University of Hyderabad
As Vice Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad from1999-2002, Professor Rama Rao brought his scientific rigor and administrative acumen and a special human touch to university governance. His leadership was characterized by a commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and institutional development with a focus on interdisciplinary research. He was sensitive, gentle, willing to listen to students and university community at large without being judgmental and overbearing which made him a person loved by one and all. Under his guidance, the University of Hyderabad strengthened its position as a premier center for higher education and research in India.
Inauguration function of excavation: (L-R) Shri A. Ramalakshman, Commissioner, SDAM, Vice Chancellor Professor P. Rama Rao,and Professors K.S.S. Seshan and Aloka Parasher Sen, Faculty, Department of History, UoH.
Under the visionary leadership of Prof. Palle Rama Rao, the University of Hyderabad (UoH) achieved several milestones:
University with Potential for Excellence (UPE):UoH was selected by the UGC as one of only five universities nationwide, and one of two central universities, to receive a substantial grant of Rs. 30 crores. Soon after the silver jubilee celebrations of the University, the turn of the new millennium thus began on the auspicious note with the prestigious award of the UPE tag. Significantly, the submitted research proposal of UoH carried a noteworthy title “Interface Studies and Research” which set its future direction for the following decades.
NAAC Accreditation: The university was accredited with a prestigious Five-Star rating by NAAC.
Research Excellence: The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research recognized UoH for its “High Output-High Impact” research, a category reserved for top institutions.
DST Funding: Multiple departments, including Biochemistry, Plant Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics & Statistics, received significant funding under the DST’s FIST program.
More than 130 NMRs were granted permanent positions marking a major milestone in the university’s commitment to staff welfare.
During his vice chancellorship, Professor Rama Rao emphasized interdisciplinary research, international collaborations, and the development of advanced research facilities. He supported University-Industry collaboration and initiated a tripartite project with the Reddy’s Research Laboratory and Govt. of Andhra Pradesh which subsequently led to the creation of the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS) on the University campus. His vision for the university aligned with his broader commitment to advancing India’s scientific capabilities and fostering a new generation of researchers and innovators.
Dignitaries at the Eighth Convocation held on March 4, 2000
L to R: Prof. Palle Rama Rao, Vice-Chancellor, Dr. C Rangarajan, Governor of erstwhile Andhra Pradesh & Chief Rector of the University and Prof. Romila Thapar, Chancellor of the University at the Eighth Convocation
National Leadership in Science, Technology and Innovation
Beyond his role at the University of Hyderabad, Professor Rama Rao has held numerous prestigious positions that showcase his national leadership in science and technology. He served as the Director of the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory and as Secretary to the Government of India in the Department of Science and Technology and Ocean Development. His appointment as Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board further demonstrated the nation’s trust in his expertise and judgment.
Professor Rama Rao’s contributions extend to institution-building, having played key roles in establishing several national facilities including the Heavy Alloy Penetrator Plant in Tiruchirapalli, the International Advanced Research Center for Powder Metallurgy & New Materials in Hyderabad, the Non-Ferrous Materials Technology Development Center in Hyderabad, the National Institute of Ocean Technology in Chennai, and the Safety Research Institute in Kalpakkam.
Academic Leadership and Editorial Contributions
Professor Rama Rao’s academic leadership extended to editorial roles that shaped scholarly discourse in his field. He served as Editor of the “Transactions of the Indian Institute of Metals” and the “Bulletin of Materials Science.” His international recognition is evident in his service on the editorial boards of prestigious journals including “Materials Science and Engineering,” “International Journal of Fatigue,” and “International Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping.”
His leadership in professional societies is equally impressive, having served as president of the Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore (1995-98), Indian National Academy of Engineering (2001-02), Indian Science Congress Association (1997-98), Indian Institute of Metals (1990-91), Materials Research Society of India (1992-94), Indian Nuclear Society (2008-09), and the International Congress on Fracture (1989-93).
Honors and Recognition
Professor Rama Rao’s exceptional contributions have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards. He received the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize for Engineering Science in 1979, followed by the Padma Shri in 1989, Padma Bhushan in 2001, and India’s second-highest civilian honour, the Padma Vibhushan, in 2011.
His international recognition includes election as an International Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering (UK), the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World, Ukrainian Academy of Sciences, and the US National Academy of Engineering (2012). The American Society of Materials awarded him their Distinguished Life Membership in 2004.
Professor Rama Rao has also been chairman of the Governing Council of the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy & New Materials (ARCI) in Hyderabad. His career exemplifies how scientific expertise, administrative leadership, and educational vision can converge to create lasting impact on institutions and national scientific capabilities.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
As part of the distinguished lineage of Vice Chancellors at the University of Hyderabad, Professor Palle Rama Rao’s legacy continues to influence the institution’s approach to research, education, and administration. His emphasis on excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration shall remain embedded in the university’s ethos.
Prof. Palle Rama Rao is known for his kind heart and compassionate nature. He has been known for actively listening to student issues and addressing them with fairness, firm commitment and efficiency. He is a humble leader who leads by example, inspiring others with his integrity and dedication. His passion for learning and teaching has touched countless lives, making him a beloved and highly respected personality in academia.
Professor Palle Rama Rao’s tenure as Vice Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad represents an important chapter in the institution’s history, marked by advancement in research capabilities, academic standards, and institutional prestige that continues to benefit students, faculty, and the broader scientific community in India.
- By Mahi Sharma, MA Communication (Media Studies) with inputs from Prof. Sheela Prasad, Former faculty at the Centre for Regional Studies & Professor K. D. Sen, INSA Honorary Scientist, School of Chemistry, University of Hyderabad.
The University of Hyderabad’s illustrious history is attributed to the exceptional leadership of its Vice Chancellors. This esteemed group of visionaries has spearheaded the institution’s transformation into a premier hub of academic excellence. Through their strategic guidance, the University of Hyderabad (UoH) has emerged as a flagship institution in India’s higher education landscape. In this series, “Know the Vice Chancellors of UoH,”.
Till now we have completed the series on the First Five Vice Chancellors and completed 25 years history of the University of Hyderabad.
Please see the links to the earlier four Vice Chancellors featured:
https://herald.uohyd.ac.in/pioneering-excellence-professor-b-s-ramakrishnas-lasting-legacy/
https://herald.uohyd.ac.in/prof-bhadriraju-krishnamurti-a-visionary-leader-in-education/
https://herald.uohyd.ac.in/prof-goverdhan-mehta-a-visionary-leader-and-academic-luminary/