Dr. D. Barathi, M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed., Ph.D., is currently serving as Principal of Namakkal Kavignar Ramalingam Government Arts College for Women, Namakkal, having previously held the post of Principal at Government Arts and Science College, Sendamangalam (from 06.03.2023). Her association with N.K.R. Government Arts College for Women dates back to 26.08.1996, giving her over 27 years of teaching experience and 17 years of research experience. She has been a recognised research supervisor of Periyar University since 08.10.2015 (Approval No. PU/R/RD3/06147/2015), served as a Senate member from 2017 to 2020 and again from 2023 to date, and was honoured with the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Award for lifetime contribution to teaching and scientific excellence, sponsored by Marina Labs, Chennai.

Research and Academic Contributions Her research spans vibrational spectroscopy, nanotechnology and crystal growth, with 24 papers published in international journals. She has guided 15 M.Phil. scholars and 3 awarded Ph.D. candidates, with 3 more in progress, and serves as a reviewer for two international journals. Alongside this, she has organised 6 seminars and conferences, participated in 22–28 seminars and workshops, presented 5 conference papers, delivered 10 special and guest lectures, and acted as a viva-voce examiner. Her institutional service includes membership of the PG Board of Studies at Periyar University (2020–2023), BOS membership at Nehru Memorial College, Puthanampatti and Government Arts College, Salem, doctoral committee membership at four colleges, and roles on college council, admission, hostel and sports committees, besides serving as Additional Chief Examiner and on a university flying squad.