Sumitra Rajagopalan

Sumitra became interested in the concept of smart materials from a young age while studying Chemistry in Russia. She has followed through on this early interest, earning her master’s degree in polymer chemistry. Driven by a desire to pursue real-life applications instead of niche academic subjects, Sumitra launched her business, Bioastra, which works on developing and commercializing practical uses for smart materials. Her business has grown from a one-woman operation to a team of 17, and was listed on the 2017 Profit 500 ranking of Canada’s fastest growing companies.