Geetha Thangavelu

Geetha Thangavelu is an Associate Professor at the School of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram (IISER-TVM). She holds a PhD in Mathematics from Periyar University, India (2011), preceded by a Master of Philosophy (2008), Master of Science (2007), and Bachelor of Science (2005), all from institutions in India.

• Current roles: Associate Professor (IISER-TVM, since 2024), previously Assistant Professor (2017-2024).
• Past positions: Alexander von Humboldt Post-Doctoral Fellow (University of Stuttgart, 2015-2017), Visiting Fellow at Chennai Mathematical Institute (2014-2015), Post-Doctoral Fellow at The Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Chennai (2011-2014).

Her research focuses on Representation Theory of finite groups and diagram algebras, with significant contributions to Cellular Algebras, Schur Algebras, and Combinatorics. Her work explores connections between algebraic structures, quantum deformations, and applications in mathematical chemistry.

Recent publications (2024-2025) highlight her advancements in Hecke algebras, walled-Brauer algebras, and hyper-octahedral groups, emphasizing combinatorial methods and cohomological properties. Earlier studies analyzed Gelfand-Tsetlin bases, Schur algebra centers, and applications to nanotube symmetry.

Scientific Awards

• Poster Award at International Congress of Women Mathematicians (2014)
• Visiting Summer Research Fellowship by Indian Academy of Sciences (2006)
• University Grants Commission (UGC) Major Research Project Fellowship (2008-2010)
• Post-Doctoral Fellowships at IMSc (2011-2014) and CMI (2015)
• Alexander von Humboldt Post-Doctoral Fellowship (2015-2017)
• German Language Fellowship at Goethe Institute (2015)

She advises PhD and IPhD students including Amrutha P (graduated), Sulakhana Chowdhury, K. M. Dimpi, Rahul Ata, and Bristi Chakraborty, while mentoring MSc students like Subhradeep Ghosh. Her research groups span representation theory, diagram algebras, and combinatorial applications.