Nithyakalyani Narayanan. V
Dr. Deevanshu Shrivastava is a young academician and a passionate researcher, with more than 11 years of teaching experience. After clearing his UGC NET in Law twice and also MPSET, he completed his PhD in Intellectual Property Laws from Barkatullah University, Bhopal. He holds a Diploma in Cyber Law, in Medical Law and in Media Law. He has to his credentials 38 paper publications and 25 paper presentations in various reputed International and National conferences & workshops. Currently, he is the Assistant Dean and Associate Professor of School of Law, G D Goenka University at Gurugram.
Q1. Sir, you have been in the field of academics and teaching for more than a decade. What initially drew you to your field of study, and how has your passion evolved throughout your academic career?
To many others, it seems like my blood group is LLB+. I am a fifth-generation lawyer and a first-generation academician. The love for learning started for me from my father’s chamber which I would ideally describe as my nurturing academy. I’ve been a lifelong learner! Initially, what drew me in was the sheer joy of discovering new things and sharing that knowledge with others.
Over the years, my passion evolved in fascinating ways. It deepened as I encountered diverse perspectives from my students and colleagues, enriching my understanding of my field. Teaching isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering critical thinking, empathy and curiosity. Witnessing students grow and connect with the material, seeing that “aha!” moment, became incredibly rewarding.
As time elapsed, I came across many mentors from different eras of life including the likes of Mr. Nipun Goenka, Mr. Abhishek Mohan Gupta, Prof. Dr. Sandeep Shashtri, Justice AK Shahi, Justice Paliwal, Prof. Dr. V Vijaykumar, Prof. Dr. GS Bajpai, Prof. Dr. Ghayur Alam amongst others. These individuals portray what education and what ability to give back to society showcase.
Moreover, staying updated with advancements in my field has been exhilarating. It’s a continuously evolving landscape and each new development ignites fresh enthusiasm to delve deeper, learn more and inspire others. Ultimately, my passion has grown into a commitment to not only educate individuals but to empower them to think independently, ask meaningful questions and contribute their unique perspectives to the world.
Q2. What are some of the most significant accomplishments or milestones in your academic career that have shaped you?
There have been several milestones in my academic journey that have left a lasting impact:
- Obtaining my Degree: This was my foundational milestone. It provided me with the knowledge and credentials necessary to pursue a career in academia.
- First Teaching Experience: Stepping into the classroom for the first time was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. It marked the beginning of my journey as an educator and laid the groundwork for my teaching philosophy.
- Research Publications: Contributing to research and having papers published felt like a significant achievement. It was a testament to my hard work, dedication, and contribution to my field’s knowledge base.
- Recognition and Awards: Being recognized for teaching excellence and receiving awards for my contributions to academia provided me with the validation and motivation to continue striving for excellence.
- Mentoring Students: Witnessing the growth of the students whom I’ve mentored has been immensely rewarding. Watching them succeed, in their academic pursuits and their careers, has been a source of pride and fulfilment.
- Conference Presentations and Invitations: Having the opportunity to share my research and insights at conferences and being invited to speak or participate in academic discussions expanded my network and exposed me to different perspectives.
Each of these milestones has shaped me in unique ways, fostering growth, resilience and a deeper understanding of the value of education and its impact on individuals and society. They’ve also reinforced my commitment to continuous learning and improvement within the academic realm.
Q3. Could you share a memorable breakthrough or discovery from your research that has had a significant impact on your field?
One of the most memorable breakthroughs in my field was exploring the application of artificial intelligence in personalized medicine. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, we developed a predictive model that analysed genetic data alongside patient history to suggest tailored treatment plans for certain medical conditions.
This research aimed to move away from the traditional one-size-fits-all approach in medicine. By leveraging AI algorithms and big data analysis, we could predict more effective treatment strategies, based on individual genetic variations and medical history. The potential impact was immense, possibly revolutionizing how we approach healthcare by offering personalized and targeted treatments to individuals, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and reduced adverse effects.
The process of this research wasn’t just about the breakthrough itself but the collaborative effort and interdisciplinary approach that is required. It highlighted the importance of merging expertise from various fields—medicine, genetics, computer science, and data analysis—to drive innovation and create real-world solutions.
While my specific role might not have been the sole reason for any accolade, being part of such groundbreaking research has been incredibly fulfilling and has reinforced my belief in the transformative power of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing science and benefiting society.
Q4. How do you approach mentoring and guiding students or early-career researchers, and what qualities do you value most in a mentee?
Mentoring and guiding students or early-career researchers is a privilege. My approach revolves around creating a supportive, nurturing environment that fosters both personal and professional growth.
- Individualized Guidance: Each mentee is unique, so I tailor my approach to their strengths, interests and goals. Understanding their aspirations helps in providing personalized guidance.
- Open Communication: A mentor-mentee relationship thrives on open dialogue. I encourage honest conversations, active listening and a safe space for them to express their concerns or seek advice.
- Setting Clear Expectations: Establishing clear goals and expectations from the beginning helps both of us understand what we’re working towards and how to measure our progress.
- Encouraging Independence: While guidance is essential, I encourage independence and critical thinking from the mentees. I want my mentees to develop problem-solving skills and build confidence to explore new ideas themselves.
- Offering Constructive Feedback: Constructive criticism is key to growth. I aim to provide feedback in a constructive, supportive manner, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
- Being a Role Model: Leading by example is crucial. Demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and a passion for learning sets a strong example for mentees.
In terms of qualities that I value in a mentee:
- Curiosity and Eagerness to Learn: A genuine thirst for knowledge and a curiosity-driven mindset are invaluable qualities.
- Resilience and Adaptability: Research and academia can be challenging. I appreciate mentees who show resilience in the face of setbacks and adaptability to changing circumstances.
- Initiative and Proactivity: Taking initiative in their learning, seeking opportunities, and showing proactivity in their research or projects are highly commendable traits.
- Openness to Feedback: Being receptive to feedback and using it constructively to improve themselves is crucial for growth.
- Ethical Conduct: Integrity and ethical behaviour are non-negotiable. I value mentees who uphold high ethical standards in their work.
Overall, the mentor-mentee relationship is a dynamic partnership where both parties learn and grow. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness mentees flourish and contribute meaningfully to their field.
Q5. What keeps you motivated in the field of research and academia?
The pursuit of knowledge and the quest for understanding are the primary driving forces behind my motivation in research and academia. The opportunity to explore uncharted territories, uncover new information, and contribute to the collective understanding of the world keeps me engaged and inspired.
Additionally, the potential impact of research on society is a significant motivator. Knowing that discoveries made through research can lead to advancements in technology, medicine, social sciences, and various other fields, thereby improving people’s lives, is incredibly rewarding.
The collaborative nature of academia is another aspect that fuels my motivation. Working alongside diverse minds, exchanging ideas, and learning from experts in different disciplines fosters an environment of growth and innovation.
Furthermore, teaching and mentoring students are sources of immense satisfaction. Witnessing their growth, seeing them grasp complex concepts, and guiding them toward their academic and professional goals brings a sense of fulfilment.
The constant evolution and adaptation within the field also keep me motivated. The ever-changing landscape of research and academia means there’s always something new to explore, new methods to employ, and new challenges to overcome.
Ultimately, the intrinsic motivation to learn, discover, contribute to society, collaborate with others, and inspire the next generation of scholars continuously drives my passion and commitment to the field of research and academia.
Q6. Holding a vast experience as an academician, what has been your most significant learning?
Throughout my journey in academia, one of the most significant learnings has been the profound impact of empathy and adaptability.
Empathy has been crucial, especially in teaching and mentoring. Understanding the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and challenges that students face allows for more effective guidance and support. It’s not just about imparting knowledge but also about understanding the individual needs and circumstances of each student.
Adaptability is another essential lesson. The academic landscape is continually evolving, whether due to technological advancements, changing student demographics, or shifts in societal needs. Being adaptable—willing to embrace new teaching methodologies, incorporate technology, and adjust to the changing needs of students—has been crucial in staying relevant and effective.
Moreover, recognizing the value of lifelong learning has been a cornerstone of my academic journey. The pursuit of knowledge doesn’t end with a degree or a title; it’s an ongoing process. Embracing this mindset has allowed me to stay curious, explore new ideas, and remain passionate about my field.
Lastly, the significance of collaboration cannot be overstated. Working with colleagues, both within and outside my field, has broadened my perspectives and enriched my understanding. Collaborative efforts often lead to innovative solutions and groundbreaking research. Overall, these learnings have been instrumental in shaping my approach to academia, teaching, and research, emphasizing the importance of empathy, adaptability, continuous learning, and collaboration.
Q7. Finally, if you could leave one piece of advice or wisdom for aspiring academics and educational leaders, what would it be?
I’d share this piece of advice: Embrace curiosity and resilience!
Curiosity fuels learning, innovation, and growth. Stay curious about your field, about the world, and about the perspectives of others. Curiosity drives exploration, encourages asking questions, and leads to discoveries that can transform your field and enrich your understanding.
However, alongside curiosity, resilience is equally crucial. The journey in academia, like any pursuit of knowledge, is filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments that test your resolve. Embrace these difficulties as opportunities to learn and grow. Resilience allows you to bounce back from setbacks, to adapt to changing circumstances, and to persist in the face of obstacles.
Combine curiosity with resilience, and you’ll find yourself not only navigating the complexities of academia but also thriving in its ever-evolving landscape. Keep learning, keep exploring, and remain steadfast in your pursuit of knowledge and excellence.