experience , working in Indian institutes are eligible to apply . The jury panel , consisting of eminent scientists , meticulously evaluates each application based on four parameters : originality , innovation , scalability , and implication on human life . Shortlisted applicants present their work to the jury members . The presentation allows the panel to gain deeper insights into the transformative potential of the research , leading to the selection of the winners and runners-up .
The past competitions have seen a large number of applications from across India . There have been many worthy applicants and several were recognized in 2019 and 2021 . Given the high standards , this award series can become a benchmark for high quality translational research for the life sciences community .
What advice would you give to aspiring scientists who are interested in pursuing a career in drug research and development ?
Scientists need to embrace a problem solving mindset that involves identifying unmet needs , understanding how the world is currently addressing the problem and deducing the gaps . Armed with such knowledge , scientists should then propose an appropriate hypothesis and develop their research program . This approach ensures that their research is better aligned with what industry wants .
In today ’ s world , being interdisciplinary is key . The world ’ s toughest problems , whether related to sustainability or drug development require scientists to traverse multiple areas of science . I am not suggesting that scientists sacrifice depth . Instead , addressing research questions collaboratively is what I think will make outcomes more innovative and tailored .
I encourage scientists to think big and be bold . Ideas that are futuristic spur cutting edge research which in turn , lead to impactful solutions .
Looking ahead , what are your longterm goals and aspirations for CSIR-CDRI ?
CSIR-CDRI has a history of successfully developing drugs and taking them to market . With changes in the regulatory requirements , funding mechanisms and business models of the pharma industry , CDRI has had to adapt . In the current environment , CDRI needs to be more closely aligned with industry , work in greater collaboration with academic institutes , foundations and startups and stay focused on differentiated products . Further , CDRI should become an integral part of the startup ecosystem , helping startups achieve proof-of-concept with their innovations and serving as codevelopment partners . Finally , my hope is that students and scientists see CDRI as a hub of excellence to pursue basic and translational research and development .
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