As organisations realise how much diversity functions as a major facilitator for innovation and fostering a positive culture, there has been increased awareness about the importance of it. Bringing in people from different backgrounds, age groups and other variables together is essential for any domain to thrive.

As part of my role, my responsibilities include supporting staff and PhD students in their research endeavours and attracting top talents to apply for our programmes at the University. Also, research prioritisation as well as cultivating research culture amongst colleagues.

At Heriot-Watt University, we honour multicultural opportunities and diversity, this includes women taking up leadership roles and female students getting recognised for excelling in their programmes of study.

Work culture is an essential, if not the most important reason behind the success of individuals. A healthy work environment is one where colleagues are inspired by one another, and where there is a culture of support between leaders and teams.

An ideal work environment would bring out the best version of oneself through being allowed the opportunity to make a difference and feeling that one’s work is appreciated.

Communication with students and being part of their journey is the most engaging aspect of my job. I am grateful for being part of this growing field, witnessing the breakthroughs happening in it and propagating this knowledge to our next generation of students.

Sharing this with students, helping them understand developments in the field and how they can contribute is a constant source of gratification for me.

It is almost impossible to find a job role where one’s role is limited to one function. Although this is an essential aspect of growth, it comes with its own challenges. The most important resolution, which is an essential learning of my identity as a woman, is that taking several roles is not only inevitable in one’s career, but one’s life in general.

There is always the struggle of devoting equal parts of ourselves for every responsibility we have, while ensuring our personal growth agenda is firmly anchored.