At the Bangalore University examinations of 2005- 06, he bagged the first rank in M. Sc. (Applied Genetics). And rightly so, he was the cynosure of all eyes at the 42nd Bangalore University Convocation held at the Jnana Jyothi Convocation Hall as he received a gold medal, citation and cash award for his stupendous feat. Since bagging the first position, accolades show no signs of receding. “It’s a great feeling to be felicitated by the University and that makes me feel, yes, I did it,” he told this GCC World Correspondent in an interview. Deepak who was on campus to share his moment of glory with Dr. Joseph V.G, chairman, GCC, is presently working on his research proposal on Developmental Biology at the premier Tata Institute of Fundamental
Research, Mumbai.

Even in his moment of glory, Deepak does not lose on the opportunity to express his gratitude for the support he received from various quarters- the institution, lecturers and students. “It’s a collective joy and just about everyone played a role. Be it during the seminars, conferences or the time spent at the college library for that matter, there was no dearth of encouragement,” he reiterates. And the young achiever understands success
comes with added responsibility- to live to the expectations.

“I cannot forget the support from my parents who instilled in me the value of hard work and discipline, and my sibling who has always encouraged me at home,” he added.

What is more gratifying about Deepak’s achievements is that it reinforces the institution’s decision to offer students learning opportunities beyond their classrooms. “It was important for us to attend seminars and conferences which helped us a great deal. This was the reason why I joined this college and I can say that it was worth the time spent,” explains Deepak.

Born to a middle class family in Bangalore, Deepak has a younger sibling following on his trail. “I don’t know whether it is my influence or the encouragement from our parents but she is also keen to pursue Genetics as a discipline and I am happy for her.”

Deepak believes being the first-born, there are always set standards that one is expected to match and outshine and this has helped him a lot. Growing up, he was always inclined to the sciences and Genetics appealed to him. He also insists its time efforts were made to encourage more students to take up Genetics as a discipline of study. Deepak has been involved in the discipline and has published many papers, “Establishing an assay to test the effect of antibiotics using drosophila system” being one that won much
acclaim. While studying for his pre university, Deepak was selected as a research assistant at the prestigious Indian Institute of Science (Bangalore). Perhaps the time he concluded he was cut for the discipline. Aside, he has been involved with social issues especially campaigns to create awareness on HIV/Aids and working for an NGO on a child help line. His is a mission to prove that scientists are not detached from realities in the society they live.

Deepak may be busy with his academic engagements but does not hide the fact that he reads a lot (not necessarily about Genetics), and continues to volunteer to various charitable organizations. “I have always taken to community service. I am happy if I can be of help to someone in need,” he explains. On his future plans, he reveals he wants to be involved in work that will benefit someone tomorrow. “India as a country has children born with hereditary defects. I hope we can help reduce the birth disorders, if not find the best ways to bring relief.” Though he does not rule out a foray in one
of the laboratories abroad, his heart and focus is on India. “We should think about developments in the country at all times,” he stresses.

Recalling the days spent at GCC with a lot of pride, the young achiever insists he is not a typical cold no-nonsense lab addict. If anything, he shares his happiness at having made many friends from all walks of life on campus. “Its not often you get into an institution with such an open mind set to multi cultural learning. What it has done is to imbibe in the students an all embracing attitude. “I think this is important for a country like ours
which has a mind-boggling diversity. Come to think of it, the world exists without borders and having students from across the globe studying here is great. Those are friendships I will cherish for a lifetime.”

With the awards now well tucked behind, Deepak is intent on his goal- to become a leading scientist. All of us can only wish him the very best of luck in his future endeavors. A job well done, no doubt.