Prof. V. S. Ramamurthy did his Masters in Physics in 1961 from Madras University and doctorate (Physics) from Bombay University in 1971. Furthermore, he has also received Doctorate (Honoris Causa) from Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, Anna University, Chennai, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi and University of Madras. Prof. Ramamurthy has won many prestigious awards in his 40 years of service including the Padma Bhushan in 2005. In July 1995, Professor Ramamurthy assumed charge as Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Science & Technology (DST), New Delhi.