Why did you choose biotechnology as your specialty?
Genetic engineering/molecular biology was an upcoming field during my under-graduate days at BITS, Pilani. The fact that you can clone DNA of your interest fascinated me and I took most of my electives in this field.

Are you happy that you chose biotech?
My present job is exciting as I get to transform research ideas and discoveries from academia into commercially-viable concepts. Looking back, I am happy with the multidisciplinary training that I have had, which helps me with my current job profile.

How do you see at biotechnology as an area of opportunity of career growth in women?
I feel that women researchers benefit from the biotech industry's less hierarchical, team-based structure. Biotechnology is also the one area where women can have a work-life balance.

Who is your role model and why do you feel so?
Dr Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw of Biocon and Dr Renu Swarup of BIRAC are my role models. Both the women built innovative organizations from scratch.

What are your aims and objectives in life?
Like these women, I too would like to carve a niche for myself in the biotechnology arena.