Professor V.J. Philip, the esteemed former head and founder of the Biotechnology Department at the University of Calicut, passed away on Saturday, October 18th, at a private hospital in Kottayam. He was also a former Professor of Botany, dedicating much of his life to academic pursuits.
Born in 1938 in Mannakkanad, Kottayam district, Professor Philip’s academic journey began with a postgraduate degree in Botany from Loyola College, Madras, in 1958, followed by a PhD from Madras University in 1965. His significant contributions to the University of Calicut commenced in 1968. A highlight of his career was establishing the groundbreaking Department of Biotechnology at the university between 1994 and 1995. This department quickly gained national recognition, securing a biotechnology center—the sixth of its kind in India—from the Union government’s Department of Biotechnology in 1995. He leaves behind a loving family: his wife, Mary Philip, a son, and two daughters.
Beyond his institutional achievements, Professor Philip’s expertise was recognized internationally. He served as a UNESCO-designated expert, undertaking missions to Venezuela in 1996 and Sri Lanka in 1997. His commitment to advancing scientific knowledge was evident in his numerous research papers published in prestigious international journals. Professor Philip retired from his dedicated service in 1999, concluding a remarkable career.