Chennai: Dr K S Murali, a seasoned research and development professional has joined the board of M S Swaminathan Research Foundation as its new Executive Director. Dr Murali brings close to three decades of experience in international, government and academic institutions on themes forest, agriculture, water, climate change adaptation and human development. His earlier experience includes roles at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), the United Nations, The Energy and Resources Institute, Indian Institute of Science, and French Institute at Pondicherry across Asian and African countries.

A PhD in ecology, Dr Murali has over 130 published articles in national and international journals, books and popular articles with expertise in climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, forest management, coastal and marine ecosystem, gender and social equity.

Speaking on his new role, Dr Murali said, “MSSRF is an esteemed institution in the country with diverse activities in research and policy aimed at an Evergreen Revolution. I am motivated to use my diverse experience and expertise including at the UN and IDRC to take the legacy forward on resource conservation, behavior change, natural resource management, climate change adaptation and gender concerns.”

Welcoming Dr Murali on board, Prof M S Swaminathan, Founder MSSRF, underlined his vision that an institution is made up of people, not buildings. Dr Madhura Swaminathan, Chairperson MSSRF said the new ED brought together leadership of international development management experience with scientific expertise and backing to move the institution ahead. Dr Murali takes over from ED-in-Charge, Dr G N Hariharan, Director of the Biotechnology program at MSSRF.

MSSRF set up in 1988, a not-for-profit research institution based in Chennai, India, works with a pro-poor, pro-nature, pro-women approach to harness science for sustainable development.