Dr. Alka Rao is currently leading CSIR–Institute of Microbial Technology (CSIR-IMTECH) as Director. She is a molecular microbiologist and protein engineer with over 16 years of experience in R&D and regulatory affairs, she previously served as Advisor (Science & Standards and Regulations) at the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). In that capacity, she led a network of over 300 experts to develop national food safety regulations and managed India’s responsibilities as the National Codex Contact Point and WTO-SPS Nodal Enquiry Point. During her tenure, India secured membership in the Codex Executive Committee (CCEXEC) for a second term and increased its participation in over 45 electronic Working Groups (eWGs) for global standard development. She also served or serving on statutory committees for several Government of India ministries—including MoEFCC, MoHFW, MoE, and MoCI—as well as state bodies and universities.

Dr. Rao has led 25 R&D projects, publishing over 70 international papers and filing more than 15 patents and copyrights, seven of which have been granted. Her scientific contributions include the discovery of rare bacterial enzymes and the commercial launch of a microbial agricultural product. The recipient of over 15 awards and fellowships, she was named a CSIR "Women Scientist Achiever" in 2023 and received the 2024 Zero Project International Award for developing tech-driven communication interventions that empower the deaf community.