Seventh Prof. Chellamma Mathew Memorial Lecture

The Seventh Prof. Chellamma Mathew Memorial Lecture was organised by the Department of Physics as part of the National Conference on Smart Energy, Sustainable Development and AI-Applications on 19 February 2026 at the Seminar Hall, Dr. Alexander Mar Thoma Memorial Golden Jubilee Block.

The Conference was formally inaugurated by Rev. Abey T. Mammen, Sabha Secretary of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church. In the reminiscences shared by former faculty member Prof. Philip N. Thomas, he fondly recalled the life and legacy of Prof. Chellamma Mathew. He reflected on her unwavering commitment to academic excellence, discipline, value-based education, and her pioneering role in empowering women within the academic community.

The Memorial Lecture was delivered by Dr. Suraj Soman, Principal Scientist, CSIR–National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram. His lecture, titled “Energy from the Lampshade: Light That Works Overtime,” explored cutting-edge advancements in indoor light-harvesting technologies, particularly dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). He elaborated on recent innovations in molecular engineering, and sustainable photovoltaic solutions that enable efficient energy generation under indoor and ambient lighting conditions. The session offered valuable insights into emerging self-powered technologies and India’s strides toward self-reliance in next-generation energy systems.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, researchers, students, and delegates attending the national conference. The lecture not only honoured the enduring legacy of Prof. Chellamma Mathew but also reinforced the Department’s commitment to advancing scientific research aligned with sustainability and technological innovation. Dr. Angel Susan Cherian, Head of the Department welcomed the gathering. Dr. Noble P. Abraham served as the coordinator for the memorial lecture.