Manchanahalli Rangaswamy Satyanarayana Rao

M. R. S. Rao was an eminent Indian scientist renowned for his contributions to Chromatin Biology and Cancer Biology. Born on January 21, 1948, in Mysore, India, he pursued his education at Bangalore University and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), where he later served as a faculty member. His illustrious career was marked by his tenure as the president of Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) in Bangalore from 2003 to 2013. Rao's research significantly advanced the understanding of chromatin structure and its implications for gene expression and cancer development. He was a pioneer in initiating Chromatin Biology research in India, mentoring numerous PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, and research trainees. He also collaborated with international scientists and institutions to promote scientific excellence and innovation. He served as a member of several national and international scientific and policy bodies, such as the Science Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India, the Scientific Advisory Committee to the Cabinet, the National Innovation Council, the International Council for Science, and the Third World Academy of Sciences. He was also a fellow of various prestigious academies, such as the Indian Academy of Sciences, the Indian National Science Academy, the National Academy of Sciences, India, the World Academy of Sciences, and the American Academy of Microbiology. He was a recipient of numerous awards and honors for his achievements in science and education. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2010 by the Government of India for his services to science and engineering. He also received the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize for Science and Technology in 1988, the G.D. Birla Award for Scientific Research in 1994, the Ranbaxy Research Award in 1997, the J.C. Bose National Fellowship in 2006, and the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award in 2010 among others. He was a prolific writer and speaker on various topics related to science, society, and development. He authored several books and articles on chromatin biology, molecular biology, biotechnology, bioethics, and science education. He also delivered lectures and keynote addresses at various national and international forums and events. He passed away on August 13, 2023 at the age of 75 in Bangaluru, Karnataka, India. He is survived by his wife Padma S. Rao and two sons. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential scientists and educators of India who made lasting impacts on science and society.