By Enago Academy | Speaker: Dr. Krishna Kumar Venkitachalam (KK)

The pursuit of knowledge and scientific advancement has long been shaped by stereotypical narratives and perspectives, often excluding marginalized voices and experiences. Within the glorified halls of academia and scholarly publishing, members of the LGBTQIA+ community have faced systemic barriers and underrepresentation. However, a hopeful paradigm shift is underway, as pathfinders like Dr. Krishna Kumar Venkitachalam (KK), who is the Innovation Officer at Enago, are paving the way for greater inclusivity and equity.

In this episode of “Research and Beyond,” we, with PRIDE discuss the impact of amplifying LGBTQIA+ perspectives within the scholarly world. Through candid discussions and anecdotes, Dr. KK, who openly identifies as a gay individual, offers insights from his journey — transitioning from an orthopedic surgeon to a leader in scholarly communication. He sheds light on the triumphs, challenges, and ongoing quest for representation and acceptance faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in STEM fields and academia. Along with him, we have Dr. Gayatri Phadke, who is a PhD from the University of Connecticut and is an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community.

Let’s explore some actionable strategies for fostering a more inclusive scholarly ecosystem, one that amplifies diverse voices and dismantles systemic barriers.

Tune in to the podcast now to embrace DEIA principles and create a future where every individual can thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

This episode is a reminder of the transformative power of open dialogue and allyship!