When did you start dabbling in coding in general and AI/ML in particular? When would you advise students currently in college to start?

My journey into coding commenced during my school years, fueled by an intrinsic passion for problem-solving. Though I initially pursued marine engineering to delve into a different domain, my enduring interest in technology propelled me towards working on IoT models and advanced automation systems. This experience honed my analytical skills, seamlessly transitioning my focus toward AI/ML and complex mathematics. My Ph.D. research, concentrated on cybersecurity, further augmented my expertise in these cutting-edge fields.

For current students, I would advocate for immersing themselves in what genuinely ignites their curiosity, rather than merely following prevailing trends. This approach not only fosters deep engagement but also paves the way for true mastery and innovation.

Can you share details of an interesting project that you undertook or contributed while at BITS, and how it contributed to your career?

 During my tenure at BITS, I embarked on a pioneering project centered on developing advanced anti-malware systems designed to detect metamorphic malware. This undertaking involved the intricate process of normalizing files to a base state to facilitate detection and crafting sophisticated defensive systems against these normalized attack vectors. The complexity and challenges of this project significantly honed my problem-solving acumen and laid a robust foundation for my subsequent ventures in generative AI.

In parallel, I was involved in the development of a Generative Deep Reinforcement Learning (GDRL) system, a project that has now emerged as a pivotal cornerstone for Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). This GDRL system, with its ability to provide profound reasoning capabilities to GenAI agents, exemplifies the foresight and innovation that characterized my early research. This foundational work continues to be instrumental in shaping the future of AI, underpinning the advanced cognitive functionalities of next-generation AI agents.

What role has the BITS tag and the BITS Alumni Network played in your professional journey?

The BITS Pilani ecosystem has been a cornerstone of my professional journey, offering unparalleled exposure and project opportunities that were crucial for my development. The practical, high-caliber education I received at BITS has equipped me with a robust foundation of knowledge and skills, facilitating my growth in the field of artificial intelligence.

While the BITS tag may not always carry the same competitive weight as the IIT brand in certain circles, its value lies in the quality of its academic environment and the extensive industry connections it fosters. The BITS Alumni Network has been a tremendous asset, providing a rich tapestry of professional contacts and collaborative opportunities that have been instrumental in advancing my career. This network has facilitated seamless interactions with industry leaders and innovators, amplifying my career trajectory and reinforcing BITS' reputation as a crucible for talent and excellence.

BITS is known for its emphasis on academic excellence. You had a stellar academic record during your Master’s and Ph.D. as well. To what extent did academics contribute to you bagging a dream job at giants like Microsoft and NVIDIA?

While academic degrees and certifications certainly have their merits, it is the amalgamation of rigorous knowledge, hands-on experience, and unwavering passion that truly shapes one's professional journey. My relentless enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and machine learning, coupled with my commitment to research excellence in AI and product design, has been pivotal in securing coveted positions at industry-leading companies such as Microsoft R&D and NVIDIA.

The solid academic foundation laid during my Master's and Ph.D. not only provided me with in-depth technical proficiency but also instilled a persistent drive for innovation and excellence. This blend of theoretical acumen and practical expertise has been instrumental in propelling my career forward and achieving recognition in the competitive landscape of AI research.

Many of us find it difficult to choose which domain we want to get into. How did you find out that AI research was your calling, and what advice would you give students struggling with this problem?

Discovering one's true calling is paramount. Rather than chasing fleeting trends or what appears to be popular, it's essential to focus on what genuinely ignites your passion. My journey into AI research was driven by an intrinsic curiosity and a deep-seated fascination with problem-solving and innovation.

To students facing this dilemma, I would emphasize the importance of pursuing your authentic interests. Avoid the pitfalls of dopamine-driven distractions that may lead to short-term gratification but offer little in terms of lasting career satisfaction. By aligning your endeavors with what you are truly passionate about, you will find enduring motivation and the recognition that accompanies genuine dedication and expertise.

What are your duties as Head of AI Research and Developer Relations at NVIDIA?

My role at NVIDIA is multifaceted and dynamic. I engage with startups through both group and one-on-one interactions, providing strategic guidance and support. Additionally, I conduct Generative AI workshops and contribute significantly to NVIDIA's developer programs.

As an esteemed instructor at the Deep Learning Institute, I take immense pride in being the sole South Asian certified to lead DLI workshops across the entire Large Language Models (LLM) and Generative AI (GenAI) spectrum. Beyond this, I play a crucial role in assisting educational institutes in establishing Generative AI initiatives tailored for their advanced education and industrial students. My focus extends to nurturing and enhancing GenAI developer capabilities throughout India and the South Asia region, ensuring a robust and progressive AI ecosystem.

Is your current role more demanding on the management part of the tech side? Which aspect do you enjoy the most?

The greatest challenge lies in striking a harmonious balance between the management and technical facets of my role. Both aspects are paramount and demand equal dedication. The management side involves strategic planning, coordinating with various teams, and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. Conversely, the technical side keeps me deeply engaged in cutting-edge AI research, problem-solving, and the continual advancement of AI technologies.

While both dimensions are equally compelling and critical, I find immense satisfaction in the intersection where management and technical expertise converge, driving impactful AI innovations and fostering a thriving, collaborative ecosystem.

Should we be apprehensive of new developments in AI that might lead to a net loss of livelihood? Do you ever experience any moral qualms regarding your work?

As with any transformative technology, those who adapt thrive, while others face challenges. The advent of the internet, for instance, led to the displacement of certain jobs but concurrently created a plethora of new opportunities. In a similar vein, AI is set to reshape the job market. It will inevitably automate roles that can be efficiently and cost-effectively performed by AI, yet it will also generate a myriad of new roles for individuals who can harness AI to amplify their productivity and innovate within their fields.

Adaptability is paramount in navigating these changes. Embracing continuous learning and leveraging AI to augment human capabilities can foster new avenues for professional growth and creativity.

Regarding moral qualms, it is essential to approach AI development with a strong ethical framework, ensuring that its deployment contributes positively to society. The key lies in responsible innovation, where the aim is to enhance human well-being and address potential challenges proactively