Prof.M.Santappa is a distinguished scholar and a scientist of international repute. He had a rich background of research and teaching experience. He was also the Head of the Department of physical chemistry of University of Madras. His main contribution is in the field of physical chemistry and has published a number of research papers in journals of international reputation and has groomed a number of Ph.D. scholars.

Prof. Santappa is a Fellow of (a) the Royal Institute of Chemistry (b)Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore (c)National Academy of Sciences, New Delhi.

Prof. Santappa is also associated with a number of academic and research bodies. Prof. Santappa became the Director of CLRI on August, 1st, 1973. He is intimately connected with the problems, planning and organization of chemical and allied industries and actively involved with the research and development activities of the Institute.