Designation : Head of the Department and Assistant Professor,Honorary Fellow, The University of Edinburgh, Scotland (2024-27)
Qualification : Ph.D
Email-ID : kiran@rajagiri.edu
Dr. Kiran Thampi is an academic and researcher in the field of social work for the past 19 years, currently serving as the Head of the Department of Social Work at Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous) in Cochin, Kerala, India. He is an approved research guide under Mahatma Gandhi University and has held the position of Assistant Director of the Office of International Relations since 2012. He also serves as the President of Indian Council of Social Welfare, Kerala State Branch from the year 2024 onwards.
In recognition of his significant research in the field of International Social Work Education, Dr. Thampi was honoured by the European Association of Schools of Social Work (EASSW) in 2023. Furthermore, he has been appointed as an Honorary Fellow at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, effective in 2024, thereby enhancing his international academic stature. He has also served as an adjunct faculty member in the School of Health and Human Services at Nazareth College, USA, during the summer A Semester in 2015, and has undertaken teaching assignments at various international institutions, including participation in the German Academic Exchange Programme (DAAD).
Dr. Thampi holds a PhD and has conducted government-funded research focusing on the organizational practices of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). In 2022, he led an international project funded by the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW), collaborating with partners from Israel and Australia. His editorial contributions include membership on the editorial review board of the International Journal of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, as well as serving as a peer reviewer for several esteemed journals in the fields of social work and mental health.
His research and publication interests encompass integrated health models, participatory project planning and management, mental health issues among the elderly and youth, caregiver support in palliative care, and the broader domain of International Social Work. In addition to his academic and research endeavours, Dr. Thampi serves as a consultant for NGOs and has conducted impact assessments for corporate and governmental agencies. He also possesses a background in yoga teacher training and conducts training sessions for various organizations, including international universities, thereby promoting holistic well-being and mindfulness practices.