How early education in India and advanced studies in the US shaped the careers of seven world-renowned scientists
Indian-origin scientists have emerged as some of the most influential figures in American science, technology, and policy. Many began their journeys in Indian classrooms, later pursuing advanced education in the US that propelled them to the forefront of their fields. Their careers illustrate how a strong educational foundation can shape not just individual success, but also the direction of global scientific progress, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Venkatraman “Venki” Ramakrishnan, Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry (2009), began with a physics degree from Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda before moving to the US for a PhD in physics at Ohio University. A postdoctoral shift to molecular biology at Yale University paved the way for his ribosome research.
From Nobel laureates to tech CEOs, their paths blend Indian roots with US opportunities
Arati Prabhakar, born in India and raised in Texas, became the first woman to head both DARPA and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. She earned her electrical engineering degree from Texas Tech University, followed by a master’s and PhD in applied physics from Caltech, blending technical expertise with public service leadership.
Manjul Bhargava, Fields Medal-winning mathematician, completed his undergraduate studies at Harvard University and his PhD at Princeton University, where he now teaches. Deeply influenced by Indian mathematical traditions and Sanskrit poetry, his unique approach to number theory bridges cultural heritage with elite academic training.
Ashok Gadgil, environmental engineer and humanitarian innovator, earned his physics degree from IIT Kanpur before completing his master’s and PhD at UC Berkeley. His work focuses on low-cost, sustainable technologies like water purifiers and fuel-efficient stoves for developing countries.
Krishna V. Shenoy, a pioneer in brain-computer interface technology, earned his bachelor’s in electrical engineering from UC Irvine and his master’s and PhD from MIT. At Stanford, he advanced neural prosthetic systems that restored communication and mobility to paralysed individuals.
Renu Malhotra, planetary scientist, earned her bachelor’s degree from IIT Kanpur before earning a PhD at Cornell University. Her research on planetary motion contributed to Pluto’s reclassification as a dwarf planet.
Sanjay Mehrotra, CEO of Micron Technology and co-founder of SanDisk, earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering from UC Berkeley. His innovations in flash memory technology have transformed global data storage.
