Over the past 6 years, I have had the privilege of serving the institution in various capacities, contributing to its growth and success. Here are some of my notable institutional contributions:
1. Streamlined ME thesis, RP allotment, QP/AK collection, and teaching duty allocation as the DCA convener (2 years, 2020-2022). Developed mechanisms to ensure timely collection, review, and submission of handouts, promoting uniformity, speed, accuracy, and transparency in academic processes.
2. Engaged as a DCA member for 6 years (2017-2023), actively participating in institutional decision-making and contributing to the development of academic policies and initiatives.
3. Contributed to the faculty screening process as a member of the DLSC and served as an interview panelist, ensuring the selection of highly qualified individuals to join the institution.
4. Currently serving as a member of the Space and Budget committee of the Department of Biological Sciences (from 2023 onwards). Identifying space, infrastructure, and budget requirements, and providing solutions to bridge gaps and address needs promptly.
5. Actively involved in the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee, assessing animal study protocols to protect animal rights and promote efficient study design. Utilized expertise in animal models, biosecurity, and biosafety to enhance ethical practices and knowledge within the institution.
6. Organized and participated in various events such as Synapsis, conferences, international talks, and science outreach talks in colleges, promoting knowledge sharing and fostering academic engagement.
7. Served as a core member of the team of examiners for PhD entrance, interviews, and qualifying exams, ensuring fair and rigorous evaluation of candidates.
8. Fulfilling BITSAT duties, including question paper preparation and moderation, contributing to the smooth conduct of the examination since 2017.
9. As the convener of the Department Welfare Committee in 2021, worked closely with scholars and faculty members to identify infrastructure needs and communicate them to the relevant authorities, facilitating the department's growth.
10. Actively involved as a core team member in designing an ERP-based grant management system, collaborating with the SRCD and accounts departments to streamline processes such as UC/SOE/ZBSA.
11. Led the project and course curriculum design for the Indo-Franco Campus application jointly submitted by BITS campuses, fostering international collaborations and academic partnerships.
12. Engaged as a Scientific Organizing Committee Member for the Society for Biological Chemist Conference to be held in BITS Goa, contributing to the organization and success of the event.
13. Served as a member of the Science Steering Committee of the Department of Biological Sciences, responsible for coordinating multiple teams within the department, other departments within the institute, and external institutions to secure multi-crore national and international grants.
14. Actively involved in networking with postdoctoral researchers and talented candidates at national and international conferences and events, encouraging them to consider applying to BITS Pilani (all campuses) for future faculty positions.
15. Established connections with funding agencies, funders, and institutions in India and abroad, aiming to attract significant national and international grants to support the institution's research and development initiatives.