Swati Mahiwal

PhD student
 

1. What fascinates you most about plant science?

I am always fascinated by plants; they are beautifully diverse, both externally and internally. As a biochemistry student, I was amazed to observe the puzzle-shaped leaf epidermal cells under the microscope—a sight I hadn’t encountered while working with animal cell lines. That moment marked the beginning of my scientific journey with plants. Plants possess intricate processes that enable them to survive in changing environments, efficiently utilizing their resources with minimal energy loss. There are specific molecular mechanisms and developmental processes unique to plants, all characterized by layers of complexity. This uniqueness, along with their elegance, makes them exceptional model systems for study.

2. Tell us briefly what scientific questions you are pursuing at MPIPZ.

I am studying root development, specifically the differentiation of the endodermis in Lotus japonicus. The endodermis undergoes two stages of differentiation, but I am particularly interested in the second stage, during which suberin deposits form within the endodermis. These suberin deposits create a hydrophobic barrier in the endodermis and are deposited around almost all endodermal cells, following a specific pattern, with the exception of a few cells known as “passage cells.” I am exploring the development and function of these passage cells and investigating their potential association with nodulation in Lotus

3. Who has inspired you greatly in your career so far?

I have been incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with many scientists and colleagues who possess great ideas and enthusiasm for science. I have learned a lot from each of them, and their passion has been a constant source of inspiration for me. I especially admire the women scientists who have contributed to the field, particularly those who have overcome the challenges of a patriarchal society to pursue their careers. In an era when women's education was not commonly encouraged in India, two phenomenal scientists, Dr. Janaki Ammal and Dr. Sipra Guha- Mukherjee, stand out for their dedication and passion for plant sciences. Learning about their lives as scientists has always given me hope and motivation.

5. What did you find most challenging in your career so far?

Every researcher, regardless of their level, faces different challenges. The positive aspect of these challenges is that we learn a lot when we attempt to overcome them. Currently, I find the most challenging issue to be “uncertainty in science.” While this uncertainty can be exciting in the context of experiments, it can also be demotivating when it comes to pursuing a career in science. I believe one of the greatest hurdles is trying to balance these two sides of the “coin of uncertainty.”

6. How do you see your future in science and why?

In addition to my research work, I appreciate the freedom to ask questions in the academic field. I consider this as a significant privilege that researchers have in academia. The encouragement to “think outside the box,” while also considering the boundaries and dimensions of that box, inspires me to continue my scientific journey. Hopefully, I will be able to keep my curiosity alive to be able to address the fundamental questions in plant sciences.