Dr. Harshala Rajkumar, as the Postgraduate Head of Department, played a pivotal role in kindling her interest and inspiring her to pursue a career at this esteemed university. Over the past 21 years, she has served as a dedicated teaching faculty member and healthcare professional (Nutritionist). She successfully completed her Ph.D. from Bharathiar University under the supervision of Dr. A. J. Hemamalini, Professor and Head of the Department of Clinical Nutrition at SRIHER (DU).
She has established a strong teaching record and possesses extensive research experience, with an impressive portfolio of publications in UGC CARE List Group I & II, Scopus, and Web of Science–indexed journals, along with authored book chapters and filed patents. As the outreach coordinator, she has organized a wide range of impactful activities, including Dietetic Day, World Food Day, Breastfeeding Week, National Nutrition Month, World Hepatitis Day, World Diabetes Day, and many others. She is recognized for her diligence, integrity, and willingness to embrace new challenges, known for her commitment and conscientiousness. She excels in teamwork, effectively follows instructions, and fosters positive working relationships across all levels. With an active and dynamic approach to her responsibilities, she remains determined and decisive in achieving her goals.
Ph.D., (October 2024)- Food and Nutrition- Bharathiar University, Coimbatore.
M.Phil, (April 2010) – Family Life Management (Foods and Nutrition)-Mother Teresa Women’s University, Kodaikanal.
M.Sc., (April 2002) – Foods and Nutrition- Bharathiar University, Coimbatore.
B.Sc., (April 2000) – Nutrition Food Service Management and Dietetics – University of Madras, Chennai
Developing and Validating Waist -to-Height Ratio Cut-offs to Define Abdominal Obesity Among School -Going Girls Aged Eight to Twelve Years in Chennai, Tamilnadu : A Cross Sectional, Observational Study
My Research Highlights
What is already known?
BMI -for Age has been considered as golden standard for assessing obesity among children
What this study add?
Extensive research evidence from various part of the country conceive that Waist -to -Height Ratio is a better indicator for Central/Abdominal Obesity .This Study also highlights that Waist-to-Height Ratio is more predictive than using a matrix based on BMI in rural and urban Chennai Population.
Awarded a Cash Prize for Achieving First Place in Poetry Competition “Balance for Better” conducted as a part of International Women’s Day celebration on 8th March 2019 at SRIHER (DU)
Title :- “Developing and Validating Waist -to-Height Ratio Cut-offs to Define Abdominal Obesity Among School -Going Girls Aged Eight to Twelve Years in Chennai, Tamilnadu : A Cross Sectional, Observational Study”