Tandra R. Chakraborty

Tandra R. Chakraborty is a tenured Professor in the Department of Biology at Adelphi University’s College of Arts and Sciences, where she has served since 2006. She earned her Ph.D. from Calcutta University in 2000 and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. She has held leadership roles including Chair of the Biology Department (2020–2024), Director of the Biology Graduate Program (2014–2020), and Interim Associate Dean of Student Success and Strategic Initiatives.

• Ph.D., Calcutta University, India (2000)
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Mount Sinai School of Medicine (2006)

Her research lies at the intersection of Endocrinology and Neurobiology, focusing on the role of estrogen in neuroprotection, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and reproductive health. She investigates hormonal changes in aging and high-fat diet models, neuroprotective effects of estrogen in Alzheimer’s and hypoglycemic injury, and the impact of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on development and pregnancy. Her work combines molecular, cellular, and animal model approaches to understand the interplay between metabolism and neural function.

Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in biomedical research involving hormonal regulation, neuroprotection, and metabolic disease. Key themes include estrogen’s protective role in neurodegenerative models, the effects of high-fat diets on endocrine and reproductive systems, and environmental impacts on human health. Her work spans both basic science and public health, with applications in obesity, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.

She has received multiple scientific recognitions, including:

• Frederick Bettelheim Research Award
• Adelphi Faculty Development Grant (2007, 2008)
• CASHE Award for innovative academic support (2023)
• Multiple ASBMB Travel Awards for student mentors
• Nominations for Teaching and Service Excellence Awards (2019)

She has advised numerous graduate and undergraduate theses, mentoring students in research on obesity, diabetes, neuroprotection, and environmental health. Many of her students have co-authored publications, presented at national conferences, and won awards. She has secured internal funding and led curriculum development, including the BS in Neuroscience program. She is also an active journal reviewer and science fair judge, contributing significantly to academic service and community outreach.

Dr. Chakraborty leads a vibrant research lab focused on endocrine and neurobiological mechanisms in disease. Her team includes undergraduate and graduate students trained in animal care, cell culture, immunocytochemistry, and molecular techniques. She is involved in the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) and promotes diversity in STEM through mentoring and outreach.