‘Since a young age, Biotech has fascinated me’

Meghna Chitkara is an alumnus of Apeejay Stya University (ASU), who completed a five year integrated programme (B Tech + M Tech) in Biotechnology from there. She was a part of the 2016-21 batch. Currently, Meghna is working  as a Research Associate at Apelo Consulting, a market-research consultancy firm. In an exclusive interview, the research associate gives us a glimpse into her work schedule as well as delineates her inspirations and future targets. Edited excerpts: 

What all responsibilities does a research associate have at work?

My roles and responsibilities include doing a quality check, data analysis, releasing and working on different research studies to understand the global market landscape on different topics such as malaria diagnostics or say surgical devices. It involves a lot of mental processing and alertness.  

What was the inspiration to join this field of work?

I was keenly interested to understand how innovation happens and how new development takes place in the biotech field. So, I pursued this subject and gradually realised that my area of expertise is more into understanding the market and its role in launching new products.

Tell us about your best memories at ASU?

My best time at ASU was the cultural fest period. At that time , everyone in the university gets excited. Students prepare for the fest for two weeks and I was the moderator of the fest. It was a great feeling to be a part of it and coordinate the event well. Apart from that, of course talking with friends while sitting in the café or ground were great memories.

One word of advice for current ASU students?

Enjoy the time you have in the university. This time will never come back. This is the most precious time of your life. So develop as a person and cultivate your personality. This will help you when you come out in the industry. You will clearly understand how it works.

What are your future targets?

I am looking forward to doing an MBA in healthcare management.