Aragen has introduced ChemiSHE, positioning it as India’s first chemistry synthesis laboratory fully operated and led by women scientists. The facility was inaugurated on 8 April 2026 at the company’s Mallapur campus in Hyderabad, marking a targeted step by the global Contract Research, Development, and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO) to advance gender diversity within its scientific workforce. The initiative aligns with a broader organisational effort to strengthen representation and leadership pathways for women in pharmaceutical research and development.
ChemiSHE will begin operations with a team of 12–14 scientists and is structured to enhance research ownership, elevate scientific visibility, and support progression into decision-making roles. The lab forms part of Aragen’s long-term workforce strategy, which aims to recruit between 800 and 1,000 women employees across scientific, operational, and leadership positions over the next three years. The move underscores the company’s intent to integrate diversity with capability building in its global R&D ecosystem.
Speaking at the launch, Aparna Reddy, who attended as chief guest, said, “ChemiSHE is a strong expression of the role women scientists play at Aragen and an important initiative to support the growth of women leaders. It creates an environment where women can work together, learn from one another, and grow under the mentorship of a woman leader.” Her remarks highlighted the lab’s role in fostering collaborative learning and leadership development among women professionals.
Addressing the strategic direction, Manni Kantipudi stated, “ChemiSHE is designed in line with the International Women’s Day 2026 theme of ‘Give to Gain’ – and it reflects our conviction that investing in women’s leadership multiplies innovation and scientific excellence. Over the next three years, we plan to add 800–1,000 women employees across scientific, operational, and leadership functions as we build a more balanced and future-ready workforce.” The lab will operate under the leadership of Pragya Yadav, Scientific Manager, Discovery Chemistry Solutions. Aragen currently serves more than 450 global pharma and biotech customers, leveraging Digital & AI capabilities across drug discovery, development, and manufacturing.
