Ashoka University, Delhi-NCR, has announced the appointment of Professor Rishikesha T. Krishnan as its next Vice-Chancellor. Professor Krishnan is slated to commence his three-year term on August 1, 2026, succeeding Professor Somak Raychaudhury.

The university confirmed the appointment following a comprehensive search and selection process conducted by a committee established by its Governing Body. Professor Krishnan brings a background in academic leadership, having previously served as Director of two Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).

Krishnan’s Background and Academic Leadership

Professor Krishnan’s academic career includes a five-year Integrated M.Sc. in Physics from IIT Kanpur, a degree in Engineering-Economic Systems from Stanford University’s School of Engineering, and a doctoral program in Management and Public Policy from IIM Ahmedabad. His research has concentrated on innovation within India at organizational, industrial, and national levels, with publications in international journals across management, economics, development, and science policy. He is also the author of “From Jugaad to Systematic Innovation: The Challenge for India” and co-author of “8 Steps to Innovation: Going from Jugaad to Excellence.”

He completed full directorship terms at IIM Indore (2014-2018) and IIM Bangalore (2020-2025). During his tenure at IIM Bangalore, he oversaw the establishment of a School of Multidisciplinary Studies and the planned launch of undergraduate programs in Economics and Data Science. Professor Krishnan has contributed to various boards, including the Higher Education Financing Agency and the Board of Management of Manipal Academy of Higher Education. His engagement in national policy includes serving on Department of Science & Technology committees and as a member of the Justice BN Srikrishna Committee, which formulated a data protection framework for India. In 2025, IIT Kanpur presented him with its Distinguished Alumni Award for contributions to management education.

Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Chancellor of Ashoka University (https://www.ashoka.edu.in/), noted Professor Krishnan’s “distinguished record as a scholar and institution builder” as aligning with the university’s needs at this juncture. Pramath Raj Sinha, Founder & Trustee, expressed confidence that Krishnan’s “vision, experience, and leadership will further strengthen Ashoka University’s position.”

Professor Krishnan stated, “It is a great privilege to lead the University as its Vice Chancellor at this critical yet exciting juncture in its evolution. I look forward to working closely with the faculty, students, staff, alumni, donors and all stakeholders to contribute to the university’s continued growth and aspirations.”

Professor Raychaudhury’s Tenure

Professor Somak Raychaudhury’s leadership marked a period of academic and institutional expansion for Ashoka University. Under his stewardship, the university established seven new schools, including the Havells School of Management & Leadership, Trivedi School of Biosciences, Vachani School of Advanced Computing, and RK Damani School of Natural and Mathematical Sciences. The university also expanded its scholarship offerings, providing 500 merit- and need-based scholarships, and initiated collaborations with institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania and the India Meteorological Department. Professor Raychaudhury, an astrophysicist, will continue his association with Ashoka as a scientist and professor.

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