Lab Experience

Embarking on my PhD journey at the Infection Bioengineering Group, IIT Indore, was more than an academic pursuit—it was a period of profound personal and professional transformation. What began as curiosity soon evolved into an exploration of scientific rigor, collaboration, and perseverance.

Under the guidance of Dr. Hem Chandra Jha, I learned that good science thrives on both curiosity and critical thinking. His mentorship challenged me to look beyond results and to understand the deeper biological stories that data reveal. Each discussion, each experiment, and each failure contributed to shaping my perspective as a researcher.

The lab itself became a vibrant ecosystem of ideas. Interacting with senior colleagues and mentoring junior ones cultivated a sense of community and shared purpose. Our days often extended beyond the bench—filled with brainstorming sessions, troubleshooting, laughter, and an occasional debate over coffee. These moments strengthened both our research and our camaraderie.

Working across diverse collaborations—from molecular biology to clinical applications—broadened my appreciation for interdisciplinary science. Engaging with brilliant scientists, clinicians, and fellow researchers provided invaluable insights that bridged the gap between basic science and translational relevance, particularly in the context of oral cancer biology.

As I look back, my time in the lab taught me that research is not merely about experiments—it’s about persistence, intellectual honesty, and collective progress. The lessons learned here continue to guide my scientific journey, reminding me that every discovery, no matter how small, is built on collaboration and curiosity.