Interview with a Research Professional in Biochemistry

Harsha Kocherla is a Research Professional in Biochemistry and is currently working as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Zurich, Switzerland. Born for teachers in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India, Harsha found passion in Biotechnology and is on path to becoming a Scientist in the field of Biotechnology. This is his career journey.

 - What is Biochemistry?

Harsha - Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes within and relating to living organisms.

- What are you currently working on?

Harsha - I specialize in Structural Biology, branch of Biology concerned with structure of macromolecules especially proteins and nucleic acids. And I use a method called Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of Proteins to determine the structure of Biomolecules. My research and work helps in designing new drugs that are highly specific, thereby treating a disease.

- When and how did you first realize your interest in Biotechnology?

Harsha - After my high school, I signed up for Bachelors of Science (B.Sc.) program and became very interested in Biotechnology during the program. Besides classes, Bachelors program included Workshops, poster presentations and field trips to Biotech research establishments like Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB). These out of the classroom activities during B.Sc. boosted my interest in pursuing a career in Biotechnology.

- How did you continue to pursue your passion in Biotechnology?

Harsha – Back then In India, the minimum qualification for junior positions at Biotech research institutions was having Masters degree. So I entered into Masters of Science (M.Sc.) program in Biochemistry. Later, I realized that the starting salary for a fresh graduate in the Biotech industry is very low in India. So I decided to get further education from top institutions, hoping to fall in a higher salary range. To accomplish that dream, I worked very hard, scored high in competitive exams and entered into M. Tech program at IIT-Madras (IITM) specializing in Medical Biotechnology. I secured a job at Novartis after M. Tech but my passion for research compelled me to go for Ph.D. I chose University of Zurich for its reputation in Biotech research, work culture, and amazing infrastructure. And I have been involved in research since then.

- What do you enjoy most being a Biochemist?

Harsha – Being a researcher, everyday is a challenge and the result from every experiment is exciting. This excitement motivates me to perform cutting-edge research, and hope to find a lead to the discovery of a potential drug molecule that has therapeutic potential.

For example, I am a Biochemist working in drug discovery and development line of work. To bring a drug to the market, it takes at least 10 years after first identifying the “lead/magic” molecule. My current work/research contributes to the development of new antibiotic that fights against bacteria. And the success of my work could lead to launch of new antibiotic in the market. And there is dire need for antibiotics in the market because most of the bacteria have become resistant to existing antibiotics.

- What challenges did you face in this career journey?

Harsha – I faced several challenges with employment and immigration in my journey.

The number of open positions and salaries are very low for a fresh Biotech graduate coming out of college in India. And even the median salary/stipend for Ph. D’s and postdoctoral fellows is low compared to tenured positions in Biotech.

And now it is very tough to overcome immigration challenge that comes in the way of finding full-time employment after Ph.D in Switzerland. I currently work at University with a residence permit for training and foreign student like me requires employment with permit in Switzerland.

- How did you overcome these challenges?

Harsha – Consistent support from my parents, guidance from my professors, and my passion towards research helped me focus on my research.

I hope to have a break-through in my research and then science publications in top journals would help me in becoming a scientist.

- What advice and resources do you have for young people who want to start their career in Biotechnology?

Harsha – I strongly suggest young people to get a thorough grasp of basics in chemistry and then dive deep into the Biochemistry and Microbiology.

For the information regarding Biotech career and institutions, internet is your go-to source.