Meet the Changemarkers
We take you behind the scenes with leading scientists and innovators. In each episode, we ask key questions about their journey, the challenges they’ve faced, and how they approach problem-solving. Discover the stories, insights, and strategies that drive breakthroughs and shape the future of science. By sharing their experiences and insights, the series reveals the human side of science and the thinking that drives innovation.
Spotlight: Prof. Jocelyn Bell Burner
Discovery of Pulsars​
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As a young researcher, Prof. Jocelyn noticed unusual signals in radio telescope data that others might have overlooked, leading to the identification of a completely new type of object in the universe.
The talk offers a unique opportunity to hear first-hand from a pioneering scientist whose work has had a lasting impact on astrophysics, both scientifically and socially. It will be of interest to students, researchers, and anyone passionate about space science.
Spotlight: Prof. Michel Talagrand
The Power, Beauty and Purpose of Mathematics​
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Professor Michel Talagrand is a French mathematician working in probability theory, functional analysis and mathematical physics. He won the 2024 Abel prize, sometimes called the Nobel prize of mathematics, for his work on probability theory and describing randomness.
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This talk presents mathematics as both a deeply rewarding pursuit and a powerful tool for understanding the world. It highlights how mathematics underpins many natural laws, from planetary motion to scientific discovery, while also offering career opportunities and intellectual fulfillment. The speaker emphasizes independent thinking over shortcuts, encouraging exploration to find personal strengths within the field.
Spotlight: Prof. Avi Loeb, Harvard University
Searching for Packages from Cosmic Neighbours in Our Backyard
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Drawing on his groundbreaking research in astrophysics and the search for extraterrestrial life, Prof. Loeb discusses how scientists investigate unusual cosmic objects, interstellar visitors, and possible technological signatures from beyond Earth. The session examines the intersection of science, curiosity, and imagination — encouraging students to think independently and challenge conventional assumptions about the Universe.
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The conversation also includes an engaging live Q&A, where students asked thoughtful questions about black holes, alien civilizations, space exploration, and the future of astrophysics research.
Spotlight: Prof. Ramakrishna Ramaswamy
In this episode of “Meet the Changemakers”, we sit down with Prof. Ramakrishna Ramaswamy, an acclaimed Indian scientist whose work spans nonlinear science, computational biology, and physical chemistry.
Prof. Ramaswamy has had a distinguished academic journey from earning his Ph.D. at Princeton University to shaping research and education at Jawaharlal Nehru University and IIT Delhi and has served in leadership roles including President of the Indian Academy of Sciences.
In our conversation he opens up about his path into science, the challenges he’s faced, and his problem‑solving approach that has guided decades of impactful research and mentorship.