We are delighted to receive news that a former PhD student and postdoctoral researcher, Dr Saroj Kiran Velamakanni, PhD, FRSA, has been inducted as a Knight (KCR) by Duarte Pio, Duke of Braganza, Head of the Portuguese Royal House, in May 2026.
The honour was awarded in recognition of Dr Velamakanni's contributions to education, scientific research, and international academic collaboration across the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Commonwealth countries. The distinction also recognises his longstanding commitment to mentoring students globally and promoting access to world-class educational opportunities through his work in higher education and academic consultancy.
Dr Velamakanni completed his PhD in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Cambridge under the supervision of Professor Hendrik van Veen. Following the completion of his doctoral studies, he continued his academic career within the Department as a Medical Research Council-funded postdoctoral researcher with Professor van Veen before moving to Professor Colin Taylor's group. During his time in Cambridge, he contributed to research in pharmacology and biomedical sciences while developing a strong commitment to teaching, mentoring, and student development. In particular, Dr Velamakanni provided valuable support to undergraduate students in the Natural Sciences Tripos and the Medical and Veterinary Science Tripos at Wolfson College.
Since leaving academia, Dr Velamakanni has combined his scientific training with a passion for education and talent development. He is the Founder and Director of SKV Consultants Ltd, a Cambridge-based educational consultancy specialising in mentoring and university admissions support. Through his work, he has helped students from across the UK, Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East gain admission to the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, Harvard University, and other leading universities globally.
In addition to his educational leadership, Dr Velamakanni has maintained a strong interest in research and innovation. He is a named inventor on multiple international patents in the fields of cancer biology and biomedical sciences and remains actively engaged in supporting scientific research, academic mentoring, and international educational initiatives.
Reflecting on the honour, Dr Velamakanni noted that his experiences within the Department and the wider University of Cambridge played a formative role in shaping both his scientific career and his commitment to education. He credits the Department's mentorship, intellectual environment, and collaborative culture as important influences on his subsequent work in research, teaching, and educational leadership.
We warmly congratulate Dr Velamakanni on this significant recognition and are pleased to celebrate the achievements of one of our alumni.