Non-Executive Director
Dr Arpana Pandey is an academician, researcher and development professional working at the intersection of science, technology, society, gender, health and rural development. Her work combines interdisciplinary research, field-based inquiry, innovation and community engagement to address contemporary social and developmental challenges, particularly those affecting women and rural communities.
Dr Pandey holds an M.Phil. and PhD from the Centre for Studies in Science Policy, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. She is currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Centre of Science and Society, Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj. Her academic and research journey reflects a strong commitment to understanding how science, technology and innovation can contribute to inclusive and sustainable development.
Her scholarly contributions include research on menstrual health in India, menstrual hygiene management among rural women, environmental implications of menstrual products and the development of knowledge landscapes in emerging areas of research. She is currently leading an ICSSR-sponsored major research project on “Feasibility and Impact of Menstrual Leave Policy in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.”
As an educator and research supervisor, Dr Pandey is actively involved in guiding young researchers and students working on issues related to menstrual health, women's empowerment, rural development, corporate social responsibility and social challenges. She also contributes to academic and community capacity-building initiatives through invited lectures, training programmes, seminars, and outreach activities on women's health, rural development, corporate social responsibility, and related areas.
At RIDF, she contributes to advancing research, innovation and community-centred approaches for inclusive and sustainable development.