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Manasvi: IIT Delhi’s Bold Step Toward Empowering High School Girls in STEM

In a world increasingly shaped by technological advancement, ensuring gender equality in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity. Recognizing this, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi launched a pioneering initiative titled ‘Manasvi’ , a STEM mentorship programme for high school girls . The programme, unveiled in New Delhi today, is spearheaded by the institute’s Academic Outreach and New Initiatives Office . Manasvi is not merely an educational engagement; it is a transformative platform aimed at inspiring and empowering young girls to pursue careers in STEM, fields traditionally dominated by men. At the heart of Manasvi lies the ambition to address the deep-rooted gender disparity in STEM education and careers . Despite producing the largest number of science graduates globally, India continues to see disproportionately low female representation in STEM careers —a statistic that underscores the urgent need for su...

EMBO Global Investigator Network: Pioneering Scientific Excellence through Young Leadership

The European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) has recently announced the inclusion of two esteemed Indian scientists, Dr. Prem Kaushal and Dr. Rajender Motiani, from the Regional Center for Biotechnology (RCB) into the prestigious EMBO Global Investigator Network. This honor highlights their exceptional contributions to scientific research and positions India prominently on the global map of molecular biology.

Unveiling the EMBO Global Investigator Network

The EMBO Global Investigator Network is an elite program designed to support and empower young group leaders who are in the nascent stages of establishing their independent laboratories. This initiative covers promising scientists from countries including Chile, India, Singapore, and Taiwan. The program aims to nurture innovative minds and provide them with the resources needed to flourish in the competitive scientific landscape.

What Makes the EMBO Global Investigator Network Unique?
  • Financial Backing: The program offers four years of financial support to aid investigators in their pioneering research projects.

  • Global Collaboration: By fostering partnerships with scientists and institutions around the world, it bridges the gap between emerging talent and established global networks.

  • Skill Enhancement: The program provides training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help investigators enhance their scientific and leadership skills.

  • Research Promotion: It supports early-career researchers by facilitating access to cutting-edge methodologies and advanced research environments.

Celebrating Indian Excellence

Dr. Prem Kaushal and Dr. Rajender Motiani's selection into the EMBO Global Investigator Network is a remarkable achievement not only for themselves but also for India’s scientific community. Their selection underscores India's growing influence in molecular biology and biotechnology. Both researchers are associated with the Regional Center for Biotechnology (RCB), a pioneering institution dedicated to excellence in biotechnology education and research.

About the Regional Center for Biotechnology (RCB)

The RCB, established by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, is a state-of-the-art research and education institution. It functions with regional and global collaborations, synergizing with UNESCO’s programs as a Category II Centre. As a hub for cutting-edge research and education, the RCB is committed to training future leaders in biotechnology and molecular biology.

Key Highlights of RCB:
  • Global Partnerships: Collaborates with international research bodies to advance scientific knowledge.

  • National Importance: In 2016, the RCB was recognized as an Institution of National Importance by the Parliament of India.

  • Innovative Research: Conducts groundbreaking research at the intersection of various scientific disciplines.

  • Education and Training: Offers world-class educational programs to nurture the next generation of biotechnologists.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

The EMBO Global Investigator Network and institutions like RCB play a crucial role in fostering talent and encouraging young researchers to pursue innovative scientific paths. Dr. Prem Kaushal and Dr. Rajender Motiani’s achievements symbolize the potential of Indian scientists to excel at the global level.

FAQs

  1. What is the EMBO Global Investigator Network?

    • It is a program by the European Molecular Biology Organization to support early-career scientists in establishing independent labs.

  2. What does the program offer?

    • Financial support for four years, training, mentorship, and global networking opportunities.

  3. Why is RCB significant?

    • RCB is a leading biotech institution in India, recognized as an Institution of National Importance.

  4. How are Indian scientists contributing to the network?

    • By leveraging cutting-edge research to make significant scientific contributions on a global scale.

  5. What are the future prospects for selected investigators?

    • They will benefit from global exposure, collaboration opportunities, and enhanced research capabilities.

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