Building Evidence, Changing Lives: Dr. Monica Karunakaran’s Mission to Transform Public Health

In India’s research ecosystem, where women-led firms are still rare, Dr. Monica Karunakaran is quietly reshaping the public health landscape—one data point, one policy, one empowered voice at a time.

As the founder of PROPUL Evidence LLP, Monica set out with a bold, clear vision: to place evidence at the center of decision-making. From systematic reviews for policy guidelines to capacity-building for young researchers, her Chennai-based firm redefines leadership with integrity, precision, and purpose in the biomedical world.

The road here was far from smooth. It was carved with resilience by a woman who believed that rigor, empathy, and vision could shift entire systems.

“I didn’t have a big funder or a flashy network when I started PROPUL,” Monica reflects. “What I had was a deep desire to make research accessible, ethical, and impactful.”

From Researcher to Reformer

Founded in Chennai, PROPUL (Partnership for Research, Opportunity, Planning, Upskilling, and Leadership) is not just a consultancy—it is a public health research engine with a conscience.

The organization delivers health technology assessments, systematic reviews, grant-writing support, and advocacy programs. Its end-to-end research model supports governments, academic institutions, and start-ups alike.

Collaborating with stakeholders such as ICMR and WHO, PROPUL has become a trusted partner in global health research—offering clarity where the landscape is often complex.

Breaking Barriers, Building Trust

When Monica entered the field, she challenged two norms: being a woman founder in a male-dominated space and building an independent research firm without institutional backing. Skepticism was common. Funding was scarce. Yet, Monica stayed anchored in excellence.

Armed with certifications in evidence synthesis and statistical methods, she focused on delivering results that spoke louder than doubts. Every pilot project became proof. Every publication built trust. Over time, partnerships flourished—fueled by persistence and purpose.

“It wasn’t easy,” she admits. “But every challenge sharpened my thinking, strengthened my team, and made our mission stronger.”

Empowering the Next Generation

Beyond policies and reports, PROPUL’s greatest legacy may be its people. Through fellowships, mentorships, and in-house training, Monica has empowered a new wave of researchers—many of them women from underrepresented backgrounds.

Workshops have been widely praised by participants, who credit them for transforming their research journeys. The impact extends beyond skill-building; it cultivates a community where evidence and ethics walk hand in hand.

Leading Through Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic was a crucible moment. The need for real-time evidence skyrocketed. Monica responded with agility—introducing remote collaboration systems and scaling delivery without compromising quality. PROPUL’s reports during this time became guiding lights for critical public health decisions.

Through it all, Monica held firm to her north star: integrity over speed, clarity over convenience.

Lessons for Women Entrepreneurs

Monica’s journey offers insights for aspiring women leaders in STEM and beyond:

• Invest in expertise—it is both power and protection.

• Seek mentors who challenge and uplift.

• Build inclusive teams, because transformation is never a solo act.

• Celebrate small wins to fuel big battles.

• And above all, lead with purpose, not perfection.

Her message to young women is simple yet profound: your work matters, your voice

matters, and evidence is powerful leadership in motion.

The Legacy Ahead

Today, PROPUL is not just influencing policies but shaping the future of public health research in India and beyond. For Monica, every project is a step toward a more evidence-driven world—one where ethical research drives meaningful change.

Website: https://propulevidence.org

Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/propul-evidence-llp/