Our Mission

To empower Life Science students in navigating their careers with clarity and confidence. Addressing the lack of structured guidance within Indian educational institutions, we aim to impact over 10,000 individuals within the next 3 years, through awareness, skill-building, and connections, offering invaluable insights, and facilitating seamless career transitions.

Fuelled by data-driven insights and community trust, our vision is to establish a leading platform catering to Life Science students, providing them with comprehensive career navigation support.

Our Vision

Dr. Aditya Parekh (Founder) (Ex- IIT Kgp, NCBS, Johns Hopkins)

Hello, I'm Aditya Parekh, a dynamic professional with an academic background in Life Science. Having graduated from IIT Kharagpur with a strong research background, I have experience working at esteemed institutions such as Johns Hopkins University, National Centre For Biological Sciences (TIFR), Anant National University, and IndiaBioscience, at both pre-doctoral and post-doctoral levels. Throughout my journey, I have served in various capacities, as a researcher, teacher, practitioner, and director. My passion lies in working in the domain encompassing career transition, skill development, and policy discussions. In the past, I have contributed to building resources, conducting talks, workshops, and organising events. Through the current venture, NaviClar, I strive to remain committed to making a positive difference by smoothening the career navigation journey for thousands of students.

Who we are

Sakshi Poddar (PhD scholar @ NISER Bhubaneswar)

I am Sakshi Poddar, currently pursuing PhD in molecular microbiology from National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER), Bhubaneswar. I have always been a science enthusiast. My journey started with a bachelor’s in biotechnology, zoology and chemistry from Bajaj College of Science, Nagpur University. followed by master’s in biochemistry from Pune University. The passion for research and something to do for the betterment of society was cultivating inside. Therefore, I got associated with initiatives like NaviClar and ASAR (Association for Socially Applicable Research), which aim to make a strong life science community in India and help to bridge between research and society. I feel connected to the vision of NaviClar that aims to build a strong life-science community in India and I believe that’s the need of the hour. As I am interacting with more and more students as a part of my role at NaviClar, I feel the need for more career awareness and exposure, which we aim to address shortly. Any small help that we as a NaviClar team can provide to our fellow life science people makes me feel happy.

Lead: Student and faculty engagement

Lead: Design

Coordinator

Gayatri Kulkarni (Lecturer and PhD aspirant)

I am Gayatri Kulkarni, a biotechnology professional with a strong academic foundation, currently pursuing an M.Sc. in Biotechnology from the University of Mumbai. My research experience includes identifying microRNAs as biomarkers for early detection of triple-negative breast cancer at ICMR-NIRRCH. I have also completed advanced courses in genetic engineering and biostatistics. Proficient in molecular biology techniques, I bring a detail-oriented approach to research. My interests lie in genetics, genomics, genetic engineering and epigenetics, with a passion for exploring cutting-edge developments in biotechnology.

Harshit Borasi (Dual degree student, NISER Bhubaneswar)

Dr. Smita Jain (Associate Director @ CACTUS)

Smita is an enabler, mentor, and leader with 17+ years of experience in science promotion, communication, and business development and has a Ph.D. degree from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. With a history of working in the biotechnology industry at the start of her career trajectory, Smita had great stints at C-CAMP and IndiaBioscience, in the fields of science administration, management, and communication. Her purpose to 'empower researchers' has remained the motivation behind each of her stints so far.
At CACTUS, Smita is responsible for managing and growing the CACTUS business across academic, corporate, and government sectors and forging trusted relationships.

Our Advisors

Founder @ NaviClar

Kshyama Subhadarsini Tung (PhD Scholar @ NISER Bhubaneswar)

I am Kshyama, currently pursuing PhD at the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) Bhubaneswar, working on Cellular Immunology, particularly Viral Immunology. I have been an academic nerd my whole life and have a strong interest in microbiology and immunology. I aim to pursue a career in the biotechnology RnD sector. Outside of my academic pursuits, I love painting and art, which allows me to express my creativity and find balance in my life. As a passionate supporter of the future of Indian life science students, I deeply resonate with NaviClar's mission. The journey through of life science students can often be fraught with uncertainty, and the need for clarity and guidance is paramount. NaviClar's dedication to providing the necessary tools and insights ensures that students are well-informed and well-prepared to step into the industry confidently. Working at NaviClar has been a fulfilling experience for me, as it allows me to contribute to this meaningful mission and helps me connect with and develop my creative side.

Lead: Social media and Design