Beyond the Footnotes: The Evolution of the Female Scientific Narrative
Date: 28 February 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Venue: KCC Library
OPEN TO ALL
In honour of Women in Science Day, Kolkata Centre for Creativity presents Beyond the Footnotes: The Evolution of the Female Scientific Narrative. This profound cross-generational dialogue explores the shifting landscape for women in the laboratory and the clinic. For decades, the stories of many women scientists were often obscured by the shadows of their male contemporaries; today, we examine how much has truly changed.
The program brings together a distinguished panel featuring eminent scientist Rukhsana Chowdhury PhD, endocrinologist and author Dr. Madhurima Vidyarthi, and research scientist Dr. Deotima Sarkar. Moderated by scientist and research leader Dr. Madhura Lohia, the discussion will dissect the journey of scientific education, the modern ease of entry into STEM, and the ongoing battle for visibility in an era of rapid discovery. The session concludes with an open Q&A segment with the panel.
About the Speakers
Rukhsana Chowdhury PhD: A preeminent scientist specializing in infectious gastrointestinal diseases and bacterial pathogenesis. Formerly a Chief Scientist at CSIR-IICB, she is a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, India, and a recipient of the National Young Woman Bioscientist Award.
Dr. Madhurima Vidyarthi: An endocrinologist and Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (UK). Alongside her clinical practice, she is a celebrated author of fiction for both adults and young readers, including Job Charnock and The Potter's Boy.
Dr. Deotima Sarkar: A Research Scientist at ICMR-NIRBI with over a decade of experience in molecular biology. She is also a widely respected literary reviewer and book blogger (Book Click Deo), bridging the worlds of science and storytelling.
Dr. Madhura Lohia (Moderator): Dean of Scientific Research & Development at Manovikas Kendra. A Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Virginia, she specializes in molecular diagnostics, translational science, and scientific communication.
