From backyard bugs to breakthroughs: Its HER scientific saga-Dr. Namrata...

In Conversation with :- Pooja Narang

Meet Dr. Namrata Rastogi , Principal Scientist at CSIR – Central Drug Research Institute - renowned for her ability to radiate positive energy and tackle challenges head-on. Her love for science began early on, as she explored the intricacies of flowers (and worms/birds etc etc) in her childhood.

Beyond equations, she believes in dreaming big and turning those dreams into real scientific breakthroughs. With contagious enthusiasm, she pushes the boundaries of science, inspiring others to see the wonder and possibilities in every discovery. Her passion lies not just in expanding knowledge but also in connecting science deeply with human experience.

1.      What was your first experiment or project as a kid that made you fall in love with science?

While there wasn’t a magical moment or a single project that drew me towards science, I was always that curious kid who asked a million questions and loved to analyse everything. My favourite pastime as a child was playing with my neighbour’s rabbits and birds, disassembling flowers, and examining each part up close. I guess it was that innate curiosity and fascination with the details of the world around me that led me to pursue science.

2.      Can you describe an "aha" moment in your career when everything just clicked?

The first project during my PhD was like chasing a rainbow that kept moving further away. For almost two years, I felt like a mad scientist in a cartoon, with my lab coat and safety goggles, trying every trick in the book and then some. Even my supervisor, who I swear has the patience of a saint, gently suggested I might want to abandon ship.

But no, I was determined to find that one successful reaction among 99 failures. It was like searching for a unicorn in a haystack. I can still vividly recall the lab meeting where I, with a mix of exhaustion and excitement, reported the isolation of the desired product in moderate yield. The room went silent for a moment, and then – boom! – an “AHA” moment erupted like confetti.

That first success was like finding a golden ticket in a chocolate bar. It gave me the hope and energy to keep going, and in the end, I wrapped up a project that turned out to be incredibly productive. It's proof that sometimes, you just have to embrace the chaos and keep pushing forward, even when the going gets weird. (also even the “AHA” moments come after lot of slogging and nothing in research just “clicks”)

3.      If you could have dinner with any scientist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Madam Marie Curie a physicist, a chemist, two times Nobel Laureate and above all a women scholar in that era! Do I need to cite more reasons?

4.      How do you celebrate your successes, both big and small?

I am not much into big celebrations and take recognitions as a reminder call that I have a long way to go. Though I do share my joy with family, my students and definitely God.

5.      Can you share a humorous moment from your career that still makes you smile?

On my first day at my current job, I had a memorable encounter with the security guard. I arrived only to realize I had forgotten my appointment letter (it was not the smart phone era!). The security guard, understandably cautious, wasn't about to let just anyone waltz in claiming to be the new scientist (He thought I was some student).

After some back-and-forth, I ended up calling a senior colleague to vouch for me. The guard's transformation was nothing short of theatrical. One moment, he was the stern guardian of the premises, and the next, he was all smiles and warm welcomes. It was like flipping a switch – from gatekeeper to greeter in the blink of an eye. That day taught me the value of having good contacts and, of course, not forgetting important documents!

6.      If you could travel anywhere in the world to conduct research, where would it be and why?

I assume that the question is about my current field of research. In that case any top ranking world universities with great infrastructure would be my choice.

7.      If you could invent one futuristic gadget or technology, what would it be and why?

A medical device, something like a chamber/cupboard which can scan any person entering it for any ailment/abnormality/diseased condition, in few minutes. The early and correct diagnosis of life-threatening diseases would help saving millions of lives.

8.      Do you have any quirky lab habits or superstitions that you follow?

Not really! Though I have a habit of listing out every task, small or big, as a “To Do List” which I follow diligently.

9.      What’s your go-to playlist or music genre when you need to focus or relax?

Devotional (Like Nirvana Shatakam)

About It's HER Saga

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