Trailblazing, All-rounder, Problem-solver

"Aalok is my mentor and a fellow labmate who has been a constant source of inspiration for me. He has studied neuroscience using a combination of computational and experimental approaches and has now transitioned to understanding how life is impacted by and adapting to climate change. Throughout my PhD, Aalok has motivated me to seek answers to seemingly impossible questions. At the lab meetings and talks, Aalok would ask the most incisive and thought-provoking questions. His ability to cut through the noise and bring logic to the forefront of discussions is extraordinary. He possesses an uncanny skill to think ahead and often provides insights on challenges before they materialize. His passion for research extends far beyond the confines of the lab bench - be it strategizing on the tennis court, or experimenting in the kitchen. Beyond his scientific contributions, Aalok is a strong advocate of inclusivity, fairness and gender equity in STEM. He has driven impactful initiatives through eLife’s Early Career Advisory Group (ECAG) to make a real difference. His commitment to these values set an example for all of us to follow. Aalok is an avid reader, a classical Indian dancer, and a multilingual all-rounder. His linguistic skills span from English, French, Spanish, Japanese, Malayalam and a multitude of Indian languages, all the way to programming languages - Python, MATLAB, and Java and more. In every sphere he touches, Aalok exemplifies excellence, curiosity, and integrity, and, the Lab Heroes Award will be a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional contributions as an all-rounder scientist."

Nominated by Shivangi Verma, National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, India