Rendezvous

Hailing from a nondescript village, 120 kms from Bangalore, Dr. Jagadish Mittur has traversed a long journey to be where he finds himself- Monsanto. The erudite scholar completed his higher education in Bangalore before boarding a flight to Ireland for his doctoral studies and later, jumping to the teaching bandwagon. For almost two decades, he taught in Ireland, USA, Germany and Australia. His accomplishments are no doubt many like being a member of the Teens that won CSIRO Award for outstanding achievements in research. Between 1982 and 1984, he pursued his post doctoral fellowship at the boys' Thomson Institute for Plant Research, Cornell, USA. Dr, Jagadish is a recipient of the Mahadevaiah prize for securing the top position in natural sciences groups during his college days at SJRC, Bangalore. GCC World spoke to Dr. Jagadish on the sidelines of Bio-Rujivith, the annual symposium on life science at GCC. Excerpts from the interview:

Q. How do you feel coming to GCC campus?
A. This is not my first visit here. Talking of the changes since my last visit, the innovations on campus is something that has not escaped m attention. Take for instance the field of journalism you both have opted for. The field has many openings and the college has put in place forums such as GCC World and Campus Radio that are sure to benefit students. As students, you should make best out of these.
should make best out of these.

Q. What has been your experience in the journey of life?
A. (Sighs) Well, I must say that I am very fortunate. Coming from a very small village, I got the chance to make it to places one would just dream about. All the credit goes to my parents who have been very supportive. I did my Bachelor of Science degree with Chemistry, Botany and Zoology as subjects of study, completed Master of Science in Botany from Central College, Bangalore and then flew to the Trinity College in Ireland for my doctoral studies in Yeast Genetics.

Q. What are the opportunities students of life sciences can look out for?
A. When it comes to science, there are various openings that spread out like and umbrella. It all depends on one's interests in a particular subject. Today, there are many platforms for youngsters not only in this field but in arts and commerce.

Q. Your advice for Gardenians?
A. Each one should know what subjects interest them and follow your dreams. Pursue careers based on your natural interests and build on positive attitude.