Ashoka Reflections - June 2024
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ASHOKA
REFLECTIONS
A S H O K A U N I V E R S I T Y ' S M O N T H L Y N E W S L E T T E R
J U N E 2 0 2 4
Ashoka University is India’s premier interdisciplinary research and
teaching university located in the National Capital Region, New
Delhi. It is built on the finest global best practices of institution and
university
governance.
Accomplished
leaders,
philanthropists,
thinkers, and academicians with expertise in varied fields have come
together to create the university. It brings the best contemporary
values and practices in higher education, in the tradition of the
world’s leading universities, to India. With a strong emphasis on
multi-disciplinary learning, development of skills and leadership
attributes for the 21st century, Ashoka is preparing students to be
critical thinkers and ethical leaders in an increasingly diverse world.
A B O U T
Ashoka University
A S H O K A R E F L E C T I O N S
05
15
31
47
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Table of
Contents
ASHOKA REFLECTIONS
June 2024
Feature Story
10 Years of
Excellence
Latest Happenings
In Other News
In the Media
Ashoka Reflections | Page 03
Convocation 2024
Celebrating a Research
Milestone: Ashoka's First
Science Ph.D. Graduate
from the Department of
Biology
Ashoka Reflections | Page 05
Feature Story
Ashoka University is delighted to announce that Basabi Bagchi, its first Science Ph.D. graduate, was conferred her
degree at the Convocation 2024 ceremony on May 24th, 2024
Ashoka University proudly celebrates the graduation of Basabi Bagchi from the Department of Biology,
making her the first graduate from Sciences. Under the supervision of Prof. Imroze Khan, Basabi conducted
research in the field of Evolutionary Immunology. Since childhood, she has been fascinated by the natural
world and its mechanisms, particularly intrigued by the interplay between pathogens and their hosts, with a
specific focus on Evolutionary Biology, the study of how species evolve and adapt over time.
Ashoka Reflections | Page 06
Prof. Imroze Khan’s research in Evolutionary Immunology instantly resonated with Basabi’s interest. Her
eagerness to understand various facets of immune system evolution led her to choose Ashoka University for
her Ph.D. As one of the pioneering students in the Department of Biology, Basabi encountered unique and
sometimes challenging experiences during the initial months of her Ph.D. She played a key role in setting up a
new laboratory space, an initially overwhelming task that proved immensely valuable for her. This opportunity
allowed her to grasp the intricate details associated with establishing a new lab from scratch, from equipment
set-up to ensuring safety standards. This experience not only enhanced her practical laboratory skills but also
deepened her appreciation for the logistics involved in creating a research environment.
The immune responses of our body against harmful diseases can cause unintended damage to the healthy
tissues and cause mutations in the DNA sequence. Basabi’s research focused on studying the
transgenerational inheritance of genetic errors. She worked with a species of beetle, Tribolium castaneum,
infecting them to observe how mutations induced by infection could be passed down to future generations.
This work showed how infection in parents can lead to a progressive decline in progeny fitness over
generations
She then delved deep to understand whether evolution could offer a solution to mitigate these harmful
effects. Further experiments with Tribolium lines subjected to intense pathogen exposures over multiple
generations helped answer this question. Astonishingly, she found that the evolved lines exhibited a
significant reduction in mutation transmission to subsequent generations and continued to produce healthy
offspring despite facing infections. This suggested a rapid evolution of germline repair mechanisms to
counteract the infection. Thus, her study revealed the transmission of mutations could have an unrecognised
cost of immunity. It also demonstrates the ability of organisms to adapt to adverse conditions.
She recalls her research journey as a Ph.D. scholar at Ashoka University to be immensely fulfilling. The
university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary learning has played an instrumental role in shaping her academic
journey. The faculty and peers at Ashoka helped cultivate a supportive research environment with a strong
emphasis on open communication and collaboration. During Basabi’s time at Ashoka, she had the opportunity
to attend various seminars, workshops, and conferences held on campus, which greatly expanded her
perspective on different areas of interdisciplinary sciences.
Additionally, the Research and Development Office at Ashoka University empowers Ph.D. scholars to
participate in conferences and workshops at both national and international levels. This support enables
Basabi and her peers to connect with leading researchers in their respective fields.
Currently engaged in post-doctoral research at the University of Montana, Basabi's doctoral experience has
equipped her to explore new projects and deepen her understanding of Evolutionary Biology. With a passion
for both research and teaching, she aspires to pursue a career in academia. Ashoka University extends
heartfelt congratulations to Basabi Bagchi and wishes her continued success as she embarks on this exciting
new chapter.
Written by Kangna Verma (Intern, Academic Communications, RDO)
Graduate
Stories
A Reflection
on My
Journey at
Ashoka
University
Ashoka Reflections | Page 08
Graduate Stories
“My journey at Ashoka University began three years
ago when I stepped into this vibrant community
with a strong background in sciences. Over the
years, I've embraced a truly liberal education,
expanding my horizons beyond my initial expertise
into fields like philosophy, literature, and history.
Reflecting on my time here, one of the most
significant lessons I've learned is the power of
voice. Ashoka's unique classroom experiences,
where students from various cohorts interact,
initially posed a challenge in voicing my thoughts
among older, more experienced peers. However,
this environment taught me the importance of
speaking up and engaging in dialogue, a skill that
has been crucial both inside and outside the
classroom.
Leadership at Ashoka goes beyond traditional
roles; it involves understanding and integrating
diverse perspectives and needs. My role in
organising and hosting events taught me to move
forward collectively, tailoring approaches to
ensure effective communication and a
harmonious team environment. These
experiences were made richer by the accessibility
and mentorship of our professors, who were
always eager to collaborate with students on
various projects, from classroom assignments to
late-night discussions over tea.
To all incoming students, my advice is simple: be
yourself. Ashoka is a place where everyone
eventually finds their niche and passion. Take your
time to explore and immerse yourself in the
myriad opportunities Ashoka offers, and enjoy
every moment of your college life. Embrace the
diversity, challenge yourself academically, and
make the most of your journey at this remarkable
institution.”
Satyaki Choudhury is a part of
the graduating batch of the
Undergraduate Programme
this year.
Beyond the
Field and
Classroom
Ashoka Reflections | Page 09
Graduate Stories
“The Ashokan experience was more than just a
chapter in my life; it was a transformative journey
that shaped the person I am today. When I first
arrived, it felt like stepping into a whole new world.
Joining the women's football team was like finding a
second family. The honour of being appointed co-
captain was a defining moment, thrusting me out of
my comfort zone and into a leadership role that
tested and strengthened me in ways I never
imagined.
Yet, it wasn't only the on-field experiences that
defined my time at Ashoka, but the moments spent
off the field. Together, we shared laughter, tears,
and growth, not only as athletes but as individuals
united by our love for the game. These moments
forged lasting friendships and created memories
that will forever hold a special place in my heart.
One place that really made a difference for me
was the Center for Writing and Communication
(CWC). They helped me with everything from
organising my essays to fixing my grammar
mistakes. It was like having a personal coach for
my writing skills.
As I look back on my journey, I am grateful for the
lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the
growth experienced at Ashoka. It was here that I
learned to face the challenges and seize the
opportunities that lie ahead with confidence and
resilience. I gained some valuable lessons from
both my peers and faculty that I plan to carry
forward with me. One significant insight I learned
from my peers is the importance of balancing
academics with fun. They showed me that it's not
just about studying all the time; having fun is
crucial too. Another important lesson came from
my football team. Being part of the team taught
me that everyone is there to support each other,
and all I have to do is ask. These two lessons have
taught me the importance of collaboration, self-
care, and the power of reaching out when I need
assistance, and I plan to carry them forward
wherever I go.
My advice for new students at Ashoka University:
firstly, explore! Take a variety of courses from
different fields. I did psychology, media studies,
biology, entrepreneurship, performing arts, and
language courses. It helped me figure out what I
really wanted. So, don't be afraid to try new things.
Secondly, get involved outside of class. Play some
sports or join clubs, as it will give you hands-on
experience and opportunities to take on
leadership roles. Plus, it's a great way to meet new
people and make friends. So, keep an open mind,
try new things, and get involved.”
Neeta Kumari is a part of the
graduating batch of the Ashoka
Scholars Programme this year
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