1) What first got you interested in Science and/or your current field of study?
I am researching life extension in C.elegans in the hopes of finding a solution for aging and age related diseases.
My name, Amrit is Sanskrit for "The Elixir of Life" and this has been my primary motivation to research life extension and aging.
2) What did you want to be "when you grow up"?
If and when I "grow up", I would like to be involved in a mega-scale international collaboration for biomedical, cryonic, genetic/cellular, cyber-neurocognitive and nanotechnological solutions to the various problems of aging with the primary goal of maximizing healthy lifespan and human productivity.
Once we have achieved this, everyone can go back to what they thought their life was about. Time will suddenly be insignificant instead of intimidating.
3) What is the most enjoyable part about studying science?
The challenges and thrills of discovery that lie at the frontiers of cutting edge knowledge can only be found by studying science - both natural science and social science.
4) What words of wisdom would you want passed to along to our next generation of science leaders?
The scientific method is one of the primary driving forces in shaping our modern human civilization to the form it has become today. Respect and adhere to the scientific method of primary inquiry.
With such powerful tools and knowledge at our fingertips, you as science leaders pioneering innovation in the 21st century have a great responsibility in sustaining the planet while concurrently developing the human race.
The general public still remains apathetic to the needs and scope of basic scientific research. I feel that sustained investment of a significant portion of any economy's GDP for R&D has always and will always continue to be a boundlessly rewarding and pluripotent investment. No civilization in today's age can afford to be left behind as others blaze the trail and apply cutting edge technologies for the betterment of their people. YOU as leaders of science and basic research have the power to transform the planet - TAKE charge, get the SUPPORT of the people of the WORLD, invest resources in SCIENCE and make it HAPPEN.
If you're going to think anyway, you might as well think big. Life is too short for small dreams.
5) What is something about yourself that most people don't know?
I have an unlimited potential that just needs a motivation and a cause. I believe that I have found that cause and that my life is devoted to achieving it. My name is my cause. I believe that I can find the genetic equivalent of "The Elixir of Life"