Science Beyond the Laboratory

As researchers, we often spend countless hours in laboratories, focused on experiments, data, and publications. But some of the most meaningful moments of my PhD have happened outside the lab, interacting with young students and witnessing their curiosity come alive.

I had the privilege of participating in the Science for Rural India (SFRI) outreach program, an initiative dedicated to bringing science to students. The goal is simple yet powerful: to spark curiosity and show that science is not just a subject in textbooks, but a fascinating way to understand the world.

Over the course of the program, I visited a rural school in Chikkaballapur, participated in outreach activities at the Indian Academy of Sciences in Bengaluru, and a small school located in an urban slum. Although the students' backgrounds were different, their enthusiasm for learning was the same.

Rather than delivering lectures, we focused on hands-on demonstrations. We showed simple physics experiments, explained concepts like projectile motion using everyday examples, and demonstrated how a small silicon solar cell could power a fan or light an LED under sunlight. Watching the students' faces light up as they tried to understand how sunlight could be converted into electricity was incredibly rewarding. Their questions reminded me that curiosity is the starting point of every journey.

These outreach visits were made even more enjoyable by an enthusiastic team of colleagues from IISc, who shared the same passion for making science accessible and engaging. Together, we created an environment where learning was driven by exploration and excitement.

The biggest lesson I took away from these experiences is that talent and curiosity are everywhere. What often makes the difference is access to opportunities, guidance, and encouragement. Every child we met wanted to learn. Sometimes, all it takes is one experiment, one conversation, or one moment of wonder to inspire a future scientist.

At the Indian Academy of Science, Bengaluru

For me, science is not only about discovering new knowledge but also about sharing it. If we can ignite curiosity in even a handful of young minds, we help build a future where scientific thinking reaches far beyond our laboratories.

:)