Next Gen Scientists Foundation offers interns an incredible chance to pursue their passion for life science by conducting a project of their choice at their preferred laboratories. We conducted exclusive interviews with our interns and gathered insights into their unique experiences. Read below to know more about Swati’s journey!
This internship was a rewarding experience that contributed both to my professional and personal growth!
~Swati Mishra
Q. What do you study and where?
Swati: I am pursuing BSc. Hons. in Microbiology at Delhi University.
Q. Who was your PI and what was your host institute?
Swati: My Principal Investigator at the Central Drug Research Institute was Dr. Sidharth Chopra, who provided me with their invaluable guidance and mentorship all throughout my internship.
Q. What was your Internship project work and how did you enjoy working on it?
Swati: My internship project involves testing new antibiotics against ESKAPE pathogens while assessing their cell toxicity. ESKAPE includes Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species, known for their resistance. By evaluating antibiotic effectiveness and safety, I aim to combat resistance. I’m passionate about microbiology, especially in the lab, observing microbe reactions to antibiotics. Studying cell toxicity is particularly fascinating and rewarding, despite its challenges. This research has been incredibly enjoyable for me.
Swati and her lab-mates, guided by Dr. Sidharth Chopra at Central Drug Research institute, Uttarakhand
Q. How was your experience attending NGS Internship Program?
Swati: I had a great experience during the internship, and the stipend was incredibly helpful. It enabled me to focus on my work without worrying about finances. Additionally, the internship provided me with valuable opportunities to learn new skills and enriching my knowledge in the field. Overall, it was a rewarding experience that contributed to my personal and professional growth.
Working with the microbes in lab
Q. How was the city you moved in? Did you face issues?
Swati: Moving to Lucknow and collaborating with my lab-mates under Dr. Sidharth Chopra at CDRI was truly enjoyable for me. The collaborative environment played a significant role in making it a pleasant experience.
Q. Would you recommend your fellow students to apply to NGS Internship Program?
Swati: Absolutely, I would recommend it. In fact, I’ve already started suggesting it to my juniors.
