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Dr. Kalimuthu Krishnamoorthy is a professor of statistics and the Philip and Jean Piccione Endowed Chair in Statistics in the Department of Mathematics.

His research interests include multivariate data analysis, inferences with missing data, statistical tolerance region and calibration, and meta analysis.

He was recently honored as a 2019-2020 Outstanding Doctoral Mentor by the Office of the Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Economic Development.

Guiding the Highest Levels of Scholarship

The Ph.D. program in mathematics at UL Lafayette emphasizes research and prepares graduates for the highest levels of scholarship. Concentrations are offered in statistics, applied mathematics, and pure mathematics.

������ο��Ƶs in the program can “carry out collaborative research with ������ο��Ƶs/faculty from other disciplines within the math program,” and they have “ample choice for variety” when it comes to their coursework, Krishnamoorthy says.

When mentoring doctoral ������ο��Ƶs, he carefully leads them step by step through the research process. 

“After a ������ο��Ƶ expresses her/his interest to pursue research under my supervision, the ������ο��Ƶ and I decide on a research topic based on the ������ο��Ƶ’s performances in different courses that I taught. We will figure out some research problems that are doable, of practical importance and publication worthy,” he says.

After working side by side to guide ������ο��Ƶs towards the appropriate tools and other theoretical and computational details to solve the problems, Krishnamoorthy then makes space for his ������ο��Ƶs to begin working independently.

Maintaining open communication is key to helping his ������ο��Ƶs stay focused and on track.

It is important, he says, to “make ������ο��Ƶs comfortable and encourage them to discuss some of their personal problems that could be obstacles to progress in their research.”

Using Expertise Beyond Graduation

Good mentorship is not just about leading ������ο��Ƶs to complete their dissertation, but effectively preparing them for professional success, Krishnamoorthy says. 

“It is imperative to help ������ο��Ƶs during the job search process,” he notes.

Many graduates of the Ph.D. program in mathematics opt to work in academia. For these ������ο��Ƶs, Krishnamoorthy helps guide them on preparing a CV, statements on research and teaching, and cover letters. He also prepares them to give interview presentations on their research.

“Most of our graduate ������ο��Ƶs are international ������ο��Ƶs who have never experienced the academic interview process in the USA,” he says.

“I explain to them the usual process of the academic interview, what do they expect and what kind of questions they can ask the search committee and the dean. All ������ο��Ƶs appreciated the help and later told me that they were very comfortable during the interview process.”

“I am really proud of our ������ο��Ƶs who have been working as professors in reputed universities and collaborating with renowned scientists,” he adds. 

Other graduates choose to put their talents to use by pursuing a career in industry.

“Some of our ������ο��Ƶs joined industries such as banks, pharmaceutical companies, insurance companies and government agencies. They are quite successful in their professions,” he notes.

Above all, he imparts to his ������ο��Ƶs the importance of developing their professionalism and actively engaging with their field.

"Once ������ο��Ƶs complete their programs and are ready to pursue a career, I just remind them of three principles: promptness, work ethic, and integrity.  I also emphasize the importance of collaborative research and networking," he says.

From start to finish, Krishnamoorthy finds the process of mentoring doctoral ������ο��Ƶs to be a rewarding exchange of ideas and perspectives.

“Research discussion between a professor and a ������ο��Ƶ not only enhances the ������ο��Ƶ’s knowledge, but also helps deepen the professor’s knowledge,” he notes. “Indeed, I have learned a few things from each of my twenty-eight Ph.D. ������ο��Ƶs who have already graduated.”