Curiosity, courage, and collaboration: Conversations with three trailblazing Indian women in science

I (Apeksha Srivastava) got the chance to interview Dr Asha, Dr Deekshi, and Dr Gayathri during Women Force 2026, organised at the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) from 26th to 28th February. Conceived as a special edition of the pan-India Future Oriented Research Conferences and Exhibitions (FORCE) series, the event recognised the impact of women in shaping contemporary science, technology, entrepreneurship, and policy worldwide. 

The following piece is an amalgamation of my interviews and provides a glimpse into the experiences of these successful women, ranging from being curious school students and later spending late nights in the laboratory to building a career in scholarly publishing, leading one’s own classroom and mentoring hundreds of children from rural areas. Their journeys reflect the passion and dedication of women in different walks of science and life, with their stories having the potential to inspire the next generation of scientists! 

Please tell us something about yourself. 

Dr Asha: I am Asha Liza James, a proud alumna of IITGN. I grew up in Kerala (India), where I completed my schooling and earned my BTech in Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering before moving to IITGN for my PhD. I worked in the Chemical Engineering department with Professor Kabeer Jasuja, focusing on materials chemistry and nanoscience, an experience that shaped my interdisciplinary outlook. While I loved research, I was equally drawn to reading, writing, and communicating science. That interest ultimately led me to pursue a career beyond academia and into scientific publishing. Today, I serve as an Associate Publisher with the American Chemical Society (ACS) Publications, a highly reputable and trusted publisher in chemistry and related sciences, providing a high-impact portfolio of 90+ peer-reviewed journals, eBooks, and scientific content. I am part of its Global Editorial Strategy team and collaborate closely with journal editors from around the world. Outside of work, I am an absolute homebody at heart. I enjoy reading, cooking, and noticing the small, beautiful details in everyday life; quiet moments that bring me joy and help keep me grounded. 

Dr Deekshi: My name is Dr Deekshi Angira, and I come from Himachal Pradesh, an Indian state nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. I completed my schooling in Dharamshala and Kangra, after which I moved to Mandi for my BSc in Biotechnology. I then pursued my MSc in Biochemistry from Dehradun. Driven by curiosity to understand how biological systems work, I joined the PhD programme at IITGN. After completing my PhD, I joined the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore as a Department of Biotechnology (DBT) Research Associate, where I worked for two years during the challenging COVID period. Later, I received the Fulbright-Nehru Postdoctoral Fellowship, which took me to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Texas, USA. After spending two years in the United States, I returned to India, open to exploring different opportunities without limiting myself to a single path. I applied to academic institutions, industry positions, and even publishing roles. Eventually, my efforts paid off, and I was fortunate to join Dr Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar (Madhya Pradesh), as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biotechnology. 

Dr Gayathri: My name is Dr Gayathri Purushothaman. Currently, I run a coaching institute that prepares students for competitive examinations such as the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), IIT-Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), and Common Law Admission Test (CLAT), along with other central entrance exams. I completed my undergraduate degree at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, followed by my master’s degree at IIT Kharagpur. After that, I started my PhD at IITGN. My research was interdisciplinary, combining chemistry, biology, and biochemistry. During this time, I received one of the most prestigious recognitions, the Young Scientist Award, to attend the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting, at which young scientists get the opportunity to interact with Nobel Laureates directly. In this meeting, I even received an opportunity for a postdoctoral position at Humboldt University in Germany. After completing my PhD, when I returned to my hometown, which is a rural area, I realised that many students lacked proper guidance and awareness about how to prepare for competitive exams. Because I too experienced the struggles of moving forward without guidance, I felt that I should transfer my experience to students who truly need it. So, along with my husband, Mr Sriram, I started a coaching institute called C Academy in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India. Our focus is primarily on students from rural areas and government schools. 

What does it mean to you to be a woman in STEM? 

Dr Asha: To me, being a woman in STEM today means being represented, included, and truly heard. It means having our contributions recognised and our voices amplified. Over the last few years, I have seen meaningful progress: more supportive environments, more initiatives, and more encouragement from colleagues, families, and society at large. When I was a student attending conferences, I remember seeing a few women in the audience and even fewer on the stage. Today, I am heartened to see far more women presenting their science with confidence. In my current role at ACS, it is inspiring to work alongside so many wonderful women, both in the office and across virtual meeting rooms. Workplaces are becoming more inclusive with flexible hours and childcare support, and that shift matters. Of course, there is still much more to be done. I hope even more women find strength and sisterhood in science, supporting, uplifting, and nurturing one another as we continue to shape the future of STEM together. 

Dr Deekshi: Being a woman in STEM means embracing many roles at once. I am a mother, a researcher, a teacher, a wife, and a daughter, and balancing these responsibilities is not always easy. At times, it can be challenging to give equal attention to everything, and the journey often requires resilience and constant prioritisation. Yet, despite these challenges, it is deeply fulfilling. I take great pride in being a woman in STEM and in contributing to science while navigating the many roles that shape my life. 

Dr Gayathri: My vision goes beyond being a scientist. I want to ensure that STEM education reaches everyone equally, especially women and children from rural backgrounds. Right now, opportunities exist, but many people are not aware of them. Our goal is to build a bridge between opportunities and the students who need them most, regardless of their economic or social background. 

What advice would you want to give to school girls? 

Dr Asha: My advice would be: ask lots of questions and stay endlessly curious. Value in‑person interactions because real conversations often give you clarity that the internet cannot. In a time when AI and online information can be biased or misleading, seek out mentors, teachers, and role models who can guide you in the right direction. Surround yourself with people who encourage your curiosity and believe in your potential. 

Dr Deekshi: Believe in yourself and treat yourself with kindness. Do not work under unnecessary pressure; let curiosity guide your learning. Stay strong, support your peers, and remember that, along with becoming a good scientist, it is equally important to be a good human being. 

Dr Gayathri: Explore all opportunities! Believe in yourself. In my area, I was the one who went to school using a bus. I was the first one to pursue my senior secondary education in an urban area, to pursue my bachelor’s degree outside the town, and to cross the state border to pursue my master’s degree. Now, I want to set a path for others. Girls should be brave and confident. 

How would you describe your field to a non-technical audience? 

Dr Asha: I work with ACS Publications, which is part of the American Chemical Society, and it is one of the world’s most trusted sources of scientific information. Think of it like a global library where scientists publish their discoveries so others can learn from them, build on them, and solve real‑world problems. We publish high‑quality journals, magazines, books, and digital resources that help researchers, students, and industries stay updated on the latest advancements in chemistry, medicine, environment, materials, and related fields. 

Dr Deekshi: I see myself first as a teacher, and teaching is something that truly makes me happy. My field is biotechnology, which is about understanding how living systems work and using that knowledge to solve real-world problems. Many of the basic ideas actually start in school biology, but later we study them in much greater depth. In my research, I try to understand how certain diseases, such as cancer or Alzheimer’s, develop, and how we might slow down or stop their progression. More recently, I have also started exploring the impact of microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 mm that can enter our food, water, and even our bodies. My work looks at how these particles might affect human health. 

Dr Gayathri: During my PhD, I worked on a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori, a major cause of stomach ulcers. It can sometimes lead to stomach cancer. Just as humans need proteins to survive, bacteria also rely on specific proteins. Our research focused on targeting a critical protein in this bacterium. If we can block that protein from functioning, the bacterium cannot grow in the stomach. In simple terms, my research involved identifying and targeting a protein in the bacteria so that it cannot survive, which could eventually help prevent ulcers. Currently, my husband and I not only train students academically but also create awareness about scholarships and entrance exams. We regularly visit government schools and conduct awareness programs about higher education opportunities. 

What is something in your work that excites you the most? 

Dr Asha: Artificial intelligence is both an exciting and slightly intimidating development in our field. It is transforming the way we conduct research and communicate scientific ideas. AI can sharpen language, make writing more concise, and streamline many aspects of scholarly communication. While it is a powerful tool, it should remain just that: a tool. Science must still be driven by human curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. AI can support the process, not replace it. I know its rapid adoption worries many, but I believe it is here to stay. Our responsibility is to use it thoughtfully, ethically, and with a clear understanding of its limitations.

Dr Deekshi: Two areas particularly excite me right now. One is neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. While we have made progress in managing diseases like cancer, diabetes, and hypertension, these neurological conditions still pose major challenges, and there is a lot more to understand about their progression. The second area is microplastics and nanoplastics. As a parent, I am increasingly concerned about the hidden contaminants that we consume unintentionally. In my lab, we are beginning to explore how microplastics can be broken down into nanoplastics and studying how these particles may affect biological systems, including plant growth and morphology. These questions are important both for environmental health and for the future of the next generation. 

Dr Gayathri: We started the academy around 2019–2020. Over the last five to six years, nearly 200 students from our academy have scored good marks in NEET and are now studying in various government medical colleges. Similarly, more than 100 students from our academy have cleared JEE Mains. They are now studying in prestigious institutions such as Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs). So, that has been very exciting for us! Currently, we have a residential campus, where more than 300 students are receiving coaching. I would also like to mention that in January 2026, during the JEE Mains examination, about 70 students from our academy scored above 80%. Many of them are from rural backgrounds and have studied in regional language mediums and not English. Despite these challenges, they successfully cleared the exam and became eligible for admission to premier institutions. We are extremely proud of this achievement. 

How do collaborations shape your work? 

Dr Asha: Collaborations shape my work in every possible way. Being part of the Global Editorial Strategy group at ACS Publications means working across diverse teams, time zones, and geographies, all connected by a shared commitment to science. When we keep that common purpose at the centre, collaboration becomes far more meaningful and fluid. Understanding each other’s perspectives and maintaining transparent communication are essential; it makes teamwork not just productive, but genuinely enriching. 

Dr Deekshi: I strongly believe that science is never a one-person effort. It is inherently interdisciplinary; biotechnology often intersects with chemistry, physics, chemical engineering, and many other fields. No single person can be an expert in everything. Collaboration allows each of us to contribute our strengths from our respective areas of expertise. When we work together this way, we are able to approach problems more effectively and develop better, more meaningful solutions.

Dr Gayathri: Right now, my focus is on preparing the next generation of researchers, doctors, and engineers. My aim is to ensure that students from rural backgrounds gain access to premier institutions. We want to make these opportunities open to anyone with talent and determination, regardless of where they come from. Hence, the most valuable collaboration would be with government schools and educational authorities. If we receive support to extensively conduct awareness programs and training programs in rural schools, it will help us reach many more students. Another point with respect to collaboration is that my husband and I are doing this work together. I think that if I had a motivating person like him during my childhood, my journey would have been easier. So, I feel very proud of him. 

What has been your most fun work experience? 

Dr Asha: One of my most fun research experiences was spending two months as a visiting scholar at the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology during my doctoral studies. On a personal level, it felt surreal as I grew up watching anime and admiring Japanese culture; so experiencing it firsthand was incredibly special. Scientifically, it was eye‑opening to work in a completely different ecosystem, surrounded by high‑end instruments, world‑class research, and a unique work culture. And yes, plenty of ramen and mochi kept the foodie in me very happy! In my current publishing role, a standout experience has been collaborating with global colleagues to develop a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEI&R) training course for journal editors. It was deeply fulfilling to help sensitise editors to the realities of modern science: how biases can unintentionally creep in, and how diversity in geography, gender, career stage, affiliation, and research topics strengthens the scientific community. I loved the multicultural, collaborative environment as part of the course development team and the opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable publishing ecosystem. 

Dr Deekshi: One of my most enjoyable collaborations was during my PhD, when I worked with another student on crystallisation experiments. It was exciting because I had never crystallised anything before. Seeing crystals form in front of my eyes for the first time was fascinating. At the same time, some samples simply refused to crystallise; it felt like the crystals were playing tricks on me! That mix of excitement and challenge made the experience truly memorable. And of course, I am still looking forward to many more fun collaborations in the future. 

What advice would you want to give to someone who wants to start their professional journey in science? 

Dr Asha: My advice would be to start with clarity: understand what you enjoy, what your strengths are, and just as importantly, what you do not want to do. Playing to your strengths will help you thrive, but being aware of your limitations can be equally valuable when you are choosing between different career paths. Both research and publishing offer many possibilities, so stay open, stay curious, and do not be afraid to explore opportunities that align with your interests and values. 

Dr Deekshi: I often tell my students, especially those considering a PhD, that research demands a lot from you, not just intellectually, but personally as well. It requires your time, patience, dedication, and the ability to handle uncertainty. A PhD is not just about knowledge; it is about learning how to ask the right questions, solve problems, and troubleshoot when things do not work. My advice is to first take some time to understand what research really involves. Explore the field, talk to people, and observe from the outside. If you still feel excited about it, then commit fully. Once you step into research with that conviction, there is no looking back. 

Dr Gayathri: Most importantly, you should love what you do. Enjoying your work inspires you to overcome any challenges along the way. 

What is the one lesson you wish that more young researchers understood early? 

Dr Asha: There is a saying I love: “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” Science isn’t built on perfect experiments; it is built on persistence, curiosity, and learning from what doesn’t work. I wish more young researchers understood early that failure is not a setback; it is part of the scientific process and often where the real learning happens. Remember that your physical and mental well‑being matter just as much as your research. Never hesitate to ask for help: seeking support from peers, mentors, or teachers is a sign of strength, not weakness. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, believe in your potential, and remind you that you belong in these spaces just as much as anyone else!

Dr Deekshi: Two things are crucial. First, seek your happiness; after all, we have only one life. Second, remember that every experimental result matters, whether positive or negative. A negative result is not a failure; if the experiment was done carefully and correctly, it helps the scientific community understand what does not work, which is equally valuable. Take one step at a time. Remember that it is your life, and you have the power to make your own decisions. Speak for yourself and be confident in whatever you choose to pursue. 

Dr Gayathri: Science is not difficult. It is actually part of everyday life. See, for example, biology explains how our body works, physics explains everyday actions and movements, and chemistry explains the reactions happening around us. Young researchers should understand what they are studying rather than fear it. Being a woman often means balancing both personal and professional responsibilities, but that should not stop anyone from pursuing their goals. 

In your field of work, what is something that still continues to surprise you? 

Dr Deekshi: During my PhD, I worked on Alzheimer’s disease, particularly on the formation of amyloid beta plaques-sticky protein clumps that accumulate between nerve cells in the brain. What continues to surprise me is how complex this process is. There are multiple pathways through which these plaques can form. Even if we try to block one pathway, cells often find alternative routes to continue the process. Understanding how these mechanisms adapt and finding effective ways to intervene is both challenging and deeply intriguing to me.

Dr Gayathri: What continues to surprise me is how challenging it can still be to convince families to let girls pursue higher education. Several parents that I meet believe that once a daughter finishes 12th grade, she should get married. Convincing them to let their daughters pursue more years of education is extremely difficult. Sometimes, I spend hours talking with parents, explaining opportunities and showing them previous results to build trust. In many cases, I tell them: “Your daughter will be like my own daughter, and I will take responsibility for her future.” Only after building a certain level of trust do they agree to let their girls study further. 

Why do you think events like ‘Women Force 2026’ are important for India?

Dr Asha: Events like Women Force are essential for strengthening India’s research ecosystem because they create a dedicated space for women – whether students, early‑career scientists, or senior faculty/researchers – to connect, relate, and learn from one another. They spark conversations that go beyond day‑to‑day work, encouraging participants to think deeply, ask new questions, and build meaningful professional and personal networks. These platforms also make room for honest discussions, from funding challenges to research hurdles to personal experiences. Most importantly, events like Women Force plant the seeds for a strong sisterhood in science, empowering women to uplift and inspire one another.

Dr Deekshi: Events like Women Force 2026 create a wonderful platform where women in science can come together to share their journeys, learn from each other’s experiences, and celebrate their achievements. They foster a strong sense of community, inspire younger researchers, and open doors for meaningful interactions and collaborations. Most importantly, they remind us of the power of supporting one another because when one woman grows, she helps uplift many others.

Dr Gayathri: Programs that highlight successful women’s journeys are extremely important. When women share their experiences, it gives other women the confidence to tackle problems and overcome them. It is about truly realising what women can achieve. I believe that such initiatives should also reach school-level students, so that young girls can understand their potential and opportunities early in life. 

These conversations reveal that the journey of women in science is as diverse as it is inspiring. From research to teaching, publishing and mentoring students, these experiences show how science can shape lives far beyond laboratories. The reflections reveal the importance of perseverance and creating inclusive spaces for learning and innovation. Together, they remind us that when women rise in science, they can illuminate the path for generations to come.

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Please click on the links to read the detailed interviews with Dr Asha Liza James, Dr Deekshi Angira, and Dr Gayathri Purushothaman.