Inspiring Innovation
For A Better World

In this special episode of KPIT STEM Dialogues, we are honored to have Dr. Hari Balakrishnan, a pioneering figure in the field of computer science and networking, join us. Dr. Balakrishnan's illustrious career spans academia and industry, with groundbreaking contributions that have shaped modern communication technologies. Here are the highlights from our conversation.

Early Education and Career Beginnings
Dr. Balakrishnan grew up in a research-oriented household with parents who were both theoretical physicists. This intellectually stimulating environment naturally led him to pursue a career in technology. Initially inclined towards mathematics and physics, his passion for computer science was ignited during his time at IIT Madras.

Influence of Family and Early Interests
The atmosphere of scientific inquiry at home, coupled with access to a wide range of books, fostered his intellectual curiosity. While he had a brief interest in pursuing cricket, his academic path eventually led him to computer science, where he found his true calling.

Transition to Computer Science
Although he initially intended to study physics, Dr. Balakrishnan chose computer science at IIT Madras due to his high entrance exam rank. Despite the challenge of catching up with peers in programming, his dedication and interest grew, culminating in a deep love for the field during his graduate studies at Berkeley.

Key Research Projects
One of Dr. Balakrishnan's first significant research projects involved graph algorithms at IIT Madras. At Berkeley, he focused on improving data communication for mobile computing, a project that laid the groundwork for his future contributions to networking and mobile sensing technologies.

Contributions to Networking and Congestion Control
Dr. Balakrishnan has made substantial contributions to the field of networking, particularly in congestion control and traffic management. His work aims to maintain high throughput and low latency in networks, ensuring smooth data flow for applications like video streaming and real- time communication.

Innovative Applications: B Cluster Project
The B Cluster project involved using drones for aerial sensing, demonstrating the potential of distributed algorithms in practical applications. This project highlighted the innovative use of technology to solve complex problems in new ways.

Balancing Academia and Industry
Dr. Balakrishnan's career seamlessly blends academic research and industrial application. His roles as a professor and CTO at Cambridge Mobile Telematics allow him to pursue impactful research while addressing real-world challenges in road safety through telematics.

Leveraging Smartphones for Telematics
CMT's use of smartphones for telematics exemplifies Dr. Balakrishnan's ability to leverage widely available technology for large-scale applications. By utilizing existing sensors in smartphones, CMT provides real-time data on driving behavior, enhancing road safety.

Advice for Young Researchers
Dr. Balakrishnan emphasizes the importance of intellectual curiosity, starting with small, manageable projects, and improving communication skills. He advises young researchers to read widely and communicate effectively, as these skills are crucial for impactful research and collaboration.

Conclusion
Dr. Hari Balakrishnan's journey from a research-oriented household to becoming a pivotal figure in computer science is truly inspiring. His contributions to networking, mobile sensing, and telematics, along with his philosophy on education and research, offer valuable lessons for students and professionals alike.

In this special episode of KPIT STEM Dialogues, we are honored to have Dr. Bjarne Stroustrup, the inventor of the C++ programming language, join us. Dr. Stroustrup's extensive career spans academia and industry, with significant contributions that have shaped modern computing. Here are the highlights from our conversation.

Early Education and Career Beginnings

Dr. Stroustrup grew up in Aarhus, Denmark, in a working-class family. Despite attending the worst primary school in town, he was always curious and driven to learn. He worked various jobs to support himself and found his passion for programming and machine architecture during his university years.

Love for Mathematics

Initially interested in history, sociology, and philosophy, Dr. Stroustrup ultimately chose mathematics for its career prospects. His discovery of programming and computer science solidified his true calling.

Transformative Experience at Cambridge University

At Cambridge University, Dr. Stroustrup learned from Dr. David Wheeler through discussions and explorations of ideas, which taught him critical thinking and problem- solving.

Genesis of C++

Dr. Stroustrup created C++ to combine the hardware manipulation capabilities of C with the high-level features of Simula. Starting as "C with Classes," it evolved into C++ to meet broader needs.

Evolving C++

C++ has significantly evolved over the years. Dr. Stroustrup emphasized listening to the community to continually improve the language while maintaining compatibility.

Thoughts on AI and Programming

Dr. Stroustrup sees potential in AI but believes it has a long way to go before it can be fully trusted. AI can handle routine tasks, freeing humans for more complex problems, but human insight and creativity remain essential.

Balancing Hobbies and Work

Dr. Stroustrup values hobbies like running, reading history, and listening to music to relax and think differently, preventing burnout and providing a broader perspective.

Advice to Students

Dr. Stroustrup advises students to get a broad, solid education and stay curious. He emphasizes the importance of a broad education and lifelong learning.

Conclusion

Dr. Bjarne Stroustrup's journey from a small town in Denmark to becoming a pivotal figure in computer science is truly inspiring. His contributions to programming and his philosophy on education and life offer valuable lessons for students and professionals alike. We thank Dr. Stroustrup for sharing his insights and experiences with us.

In a recent edition of KPIT STEM Dialogues, Dr. Alan Finkel, an esteemed scientist and engineer, shared his extensive knowledge on green energy and neuroscience. Dr. Finkel's career spans numerous fields, including his role as the architect of Australia's Hydrogen mission.

Green Energy and Silicon

Dr. Finkel highlighted the importance of hydrogen in our future energy landscape. He explained that silicon, despite its insulating nature, becomes a powerful semiconductor when doped with small amounts of phosphorus or boron. This unique property makes silicon indispensable in electronic processing chips, which have continuously improved and outperformed potential competitors.

Lithium: The Queen of Batteries

Discussing lithium, Dr. Finkel emphasized its significance in rechargeable batteries for mobile phones and electric cars. Lithium's light weight and high working voltage, coupled with its ability to store large amounts of energy, make it ideal for mobile applications. Lithium-ion batteries, known for their durability and safety, have become the backbone of modern portable technology.

Hydrogen's Role in Achieving Net Zero Emissions

Hydrogen, which accounts for 90% of all atoms in the universe, is pivotal in achieving net zero emissions. Dr. Finkel detailed the potential of green hydrogen, produced via electrolysis using zero-emissions electricity, to revolutionize industries such as steelmaking and fertilizer production. Additionally, green hydrogen can be used to create synthetic jet fuel, significantly reducing carbon emissions from aviation.

Neuroscience and the Complexity of the Human Brain

With a background in neuroscience, Dr. Finkel described the human brain as the most complex device in the universe. Despite decades of research, our understanding remains limited, making neuroscience an exciting field for future exploration and discovery.

Advice for Aspiring STEM Students

Dr. Finkel encouraged young students to choose fields that fascinate them and to pursue their interests with dedication. He stressed the importance of staying curious, continually learning, and embracing challenges, as science and engineering offer endless opportunities for innovation.

Dr. Finkel's insights provide a valuable perspective on the future of green energy and the boundless potential of scientific discovery. His words inspire current and future generations to explore and innovate, driving progress in science and technology.

In the inaugural edition of KPIT STEM Dialogues, Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar shared his extensive knowledge and vision for the future of science and technology. Known for his transformative work, Dr. Mashelkar has received numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. Here are some key takeaways from his conversation.

Key Areas of Future Impact

Dr. Mashelkar highlighted several areas that will significantly impact the future:

New Biology: He spoke about the advancements in synthetic biology and CRISPR-Cas9, emphasizing how these technologies will revolutionize genome editing, tackle genetic diseases, and enhance agriculture to withstand climate change.

Digital Technologies: Dr. Mashelkar discussed the exponential growth of AI, machine learning, cloud computing, and quantum computing. These technologies are set to transform industries and daily life by increasing efficiency and enabling new innovations.

Clean Energy Technologies: Addressing climate change, Dr. Mashelkar stressed the importance of decarbonization technologies like green hydrogen, which is produced via water electrolysis using renewable energy.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: He emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers between different scientific fields to foster significant breakthroughs and innovations.

Life Lessons and Advice:

Reflecting on his extraordinary journey from studying under streetlights to becoming a leading scientist, Dr. Mashelkar shared several key lessons:

Power of Ideas: Innovative thinking can compete globally, regardless of resources.

Risk-Taking: Embrace bold and audacious ideas.

Borderlessness: Promote interdisciplinary collaboration.

Inclusion: Leverage high technology to benefit the poor.

Continuous Improvement: Always strive for excellence and believe that the best is yet to come.

A Glimpse into His Week

Dr. Mashelkar remains highly active, balancing various roles. His week typically includes giving awards, chairing advisory councils, working on his upcoming book on exponential improvement, and engaging with academic and industry leaders.

Achievements and Challenges

Among his proudest achievements, Dr. Mashelkar mentioned being elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society, a recognition few Indian engineers have received. He also played a pivotal role in establishing Technology Day in India. Despite facing challenges and opposition, his perseverance and commitment to the greater good have always guided him.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Dr. Mashelkar envisions a world driven by digitalization, democratization, and decarbonization. He advises young scientists to embrace these changes, focus on interdisciplinary learning, and strive to make a positive impact.

Dr. Mashelkar's insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for aspiring scientists and engineers. His commitment to innovation and societal betterment continues to inspire and guide future generations.

Q: Welcome to another exciting episode of KPIT STEM Dialogues. We are honored to have Dr. Hari Balakrishnan with us today. Dr. Balakrishnan, welcome to KPIT STEM Dialogues, and thank you for accepting our invitation.

Hari Balakrishnan: Thank you. It’s wonderful to be here.

Q: Dr. Balakrishnan, your background is impressive, encompassing academia and industry. Currently, you’re a Fujitsu Professor at MIT in the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL). Could you tell us about your early education and what motivated you to pursue a career in technology?

Hari Balakrishnan: I grew up in a research-oriented household where my parents were both theoretical physicists. This environment, coupled with my curiosity about how things work, naturally led me to pursue a career in technology. Initially, I was more inclined towards mathematics and physics, but during my time at IIT Madras, I discovered my passion for computer science.

Q: You mentioned that both your parents are distinguished theoretical physicists. How did that environment influence your career?

Hari Balakrishnan: Growing up in a household filled with discussions about research and science definitely had an impact. My parents never pressured us to follow a specific path, but their passion for their work and the access to a plethora of books at home instilled in me a love for learning and research.

Q: Your early interest was in Mathematics and Physics. How did you transition to computer science?

Hari Balakrishnan: Initially, I was set on pursuing physics, but I got a good grade in the entrance exam and chose Computer Science at IIT Madras. Although I had to work hard to catch up in my first programming course, by the end of my studies, I had fallen in love with Computer Science. This passion was further solidified during my graduate studies at Berkeley.

Q: Could you share an early research project that you worked on during your undergraduate or graduate days?

Hari Balakrishnan: One of my first research projects was on graph algorithms at IIT Madras. Later, at Berkeley, I worked on improving data communication for mobile computing, which was crucial as laptops and the web were just emerging. This project laid the foundation for my future work in networking and Mobile Sensing Technologies.

Q: You’ve made significant contributions to the field of Networking, especially with your work on congestion control and traffic management. Can you explain the importance of this work?

Hari Balakrishnan: Efficient congestion control is essential for maintaining high throughput and low latency in networks, which is critical for applications like video streaming and real-time communication. My work has focused on developing algorithms that ensure data flows smoothly and efficiently across the network.

Q: You’ve also explored innovative applications like using drones for aerial sensing. Can you tell us more about the B Cluster project and its implications?

Hari Balakrishnan: The B Cluster project involved using drones for aerial sensing and creating a network that could be used for various tasks such as mapping and monitoring. This project combined distributed algorithms with practical applications, showcasing the potential of drones in gathering and processing data efficiently.

Q: Balancing roles in academia and industry must be challenging. How do you manage your time and responsibilities across these domains?

Hari Balakrishnan: It’s all about collaboration and leveraging the strengths of exceptional colleagues and students. While academic projects may have longer impact timelines, industry projects often demand quicker results. Maintaining a balance between these roles requires continuous learning and adaptation.

Q: Your work at CMT focuses on making roads safer through Telematics. Why did you choose to leverage smartphones for this purpose?

Hari Balakrishnan: Smartphones come equipped with the necessary sensors and are widely available, making them an economical choice for scaling Telematics. Our goal at CMT is to use these devices to provide real-time data on driving behavior, helping to improve road safety.

Q: Reflecting on your career, what advice would you give to young researchers, especially in India?

Hari Balakrishnan: First, embrace intellectual curiosity and always ask questions. Start with small, manageable projects and build from there. Second, read widely and improve your communication skills. Being able to convey your ideas effectively is just as important as the ideas themselves.

Q: Thank you so much, Dr. Balakrishnan, for sharing your insights and experiences. It has been a pleasure talking to you.

Hari Balakrishnan: Thank you. It’s been great to be here. Keep asking questions and stay curious. Have a wonderful day.

Q: Welcome to this episode of KPIT STEM Dialogues. We are extremely happy and honored to have with us today Dr. Bjarne Stroustrup. Dr. Stroustrup, welcome to the show, and thank you for accepting our invitation.

Bjarne Stroustrup: Thank you. It's a pleasure to be here.

Q: Dr. Stroustrup, you have an impressive background, weaving together work in academia and industry. Currently, you're a professor of computer science at Columbia University. Before that, you were with Morgan Stanley, Texas A&M, and Bell Labs. Could you tell us about your early education and what motivated you to pursue a career in science?

Bjarne Stroustrup: I grew up in Aarhus, Denmark, in a working-class family. I attended the worst primary school in town, but I was always curious and interested in learning. I had various jobs to earn pocket money, like delivering milk and newspapers. When I got to university, I found programming and machine architecture fascinating. I paid for my education by programming, and although education in Denmark is free, you still need to live, so it helped.

Q: Mathematics seems to have been a significant part of your early education. Was it your favorite subject?

Bjarne Stroustrup: Yes, mathematics was a favorite of mine. Initially, I thought of pursuing history, sociology, or philosophy, but I realized math was a better career choice. I signed up for mathematics at my local university. However, once I discovered programming and computer science, I knew that was my true calling.

Q: Mathematics seems to have been a significant part of your early education. Was it your favorite subject?

Bjarne Stroustrup: Yes, mathematics was a favorite of mine. Initially, I thought of pursuing history, sociology, or philosophy, but I realized math was a better career choice. I signed up for mathematics at my local university. However, once I discovered programming and computer science, I knew that was my true calling.

Q: You have spoken warmly about your experience with Dr. David Wheeler at Cambridge University. Can you share how that influenced your career?

Bjarne Stroustrup: My time at Cambridge was transformative. Dr. Wheeler used a teaching method that involved discussing ideas and exploring alternatives rather than just delivering lectures. This approach taught me how to think critically and approach problems as a scientist and engineer. It was a significant shift from the classical education I received earlier.

Q: Can you tell us about the genesis of C++? What inspired you to create it?

The idea for C++ came from my need to combine the efficient hardware manipulation capabilities of C with the high-level features of Simula, such as classes and object-oriented programming. I started developing C++ at Bell Labs to build a distributed computer system. The initial version, called "C with Classes," evolved into C++ as I added more features to meet the needs of my colleagues and myself.

Q: C++ has evolved significantly over the years. How do you manage to keep the language fresh and relevant?

It's essential to listen to the community and understand their needs. I look at what people are doing with C++ and what they would like to do. We then work on improving the language by strengthening its good aspects and finding alternatives for what doesn't work well. Compatibility is crucial; we aim to simplify the language's use without breaking existing code.

Q: What are your thoughts on AI and its impact on programming?

AI and large language models have potential, but they have a long way to go before they can be fully trusted. They can handle routine tasks well, which frees up humans to focus on more complex problems. However, designing systems and understanding real problems still require human insight and creativity.

Q: How do your hobbies and interests outside of computer science contribute to your work?

Activities like running, reading history, and listening to music help me relax and think differently. They prevent burnout and provide a broader perspective. For example, I get some of my best ideas while running. It's crucial to have a well- rounded life to sustain a long and productive career.

Q: How do your hobbies and interests outside of computer science contribute to your work?

Activities like running, reading history, and listening to music help me relax and think differently. They prevent burnout and provide a broader perspective. For example, I get some of my best ideas while running. It's crucial to have a well- rounded life to sustain a long and productive career.

Q: What advice would you give to students pursuing a career in computer science?

First of all, get a broad, solid education—the best you can get. Don't think you know exactly what you'll need; the most useful subjects might surprise you. Go for a broad education and stay curious. Remember, it's life, not just the next project.

Q: Thank you so much, Dr. Stroustrup, for sharing your insights and experiences. It's been a pleasure talking to you.

Thank you. It's been great being here. Have a wonderful day.

Q: Dr. Finkel, you have had a diverse and impactful career. Can you tell us about your journey and what sparked your initial interest in science?

Dr. Finkel: My journey began with a passion for silicon over 50 years ago. As a teenager, I was fascinated by electronics and went on to study electrical engineering. This foundation led me to explore various fields, including neuroscience and entrepreneurship.

Q: You mentioned silicon as a significant part of your career. What makes silicon so special in the world of electronics?

Dr. Finkel: Silicon is extraordinary because it can be doped with small amounts of phosphorus or boron to introduce charge carriers, making it a semiconductor. This allows silicon to carry current, form PN junctions, and create transistors. Its versatility and stability have kept it at the forefront of technology, despite many predictions of its obsolescence.

Q: Let’s talk about lithium. Why is lithium so important in today's technology?

Dr. Finkel: Lithium is the queen of batteries. It has the highest energy storage density per kilogram and the highest working voltage among metals used in batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are lightweight, can be discharged thousands of times, and maintain their charge well. This makes them ideal for mobile applications like electric vehicles and portable electronics.

Q: What are some key figures you mentioned about lithium?

Dr. Finkel: Lithium has an atomic weight of 7, making it the lightest metal. It provides a working voltage of 3.7 volts in batteries, compared to 2.5 volts for sodium and 2.2 volts for lead. This combination of light weight and high voltage makes lithium batteries exceptionally efficient.

Q: Hydrogen is another topic you are passionate about. Can you explain its potential and significance?

Dr. Finkel: Hydrogen is the green molecule of the future. It can be produced through electrolysis using renewable energy, resulting in zero carbon emissions. Hydrogen is abundant and can be used in fuel cells to generate electricity, heat, and water. It's crucial for achieving net-zero emissions, especially in applications where high-density energy storage is needed, such as long-distance freight and steelmaking.

Q: You have also made significant contributions to neuroscience. Can you share some insights from your work in this field?

Dr. Finkel: My work in neuroscience includes founding Axon Instruments, which develops high-end scientific tools for brain research. One fascinating aspect of the brain is neuroplasticity, the ability to form new neural connections throughout life. This adaptability is fundamental to learning, memory, and recovery from injuries.

Q: What impact do you hope your work will have on future generations?

Dr. Finkel: I hope to inspire and educate the next generation of scientists and engineers. Interdisciplinary learning and innovation are crucial for solving complex global challenges. Whether through advancements in energy, neuroscience, or education, I believe in the power of science to drive progress and improve lives.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to students pursuing careers in science and technology?

Dr. Finkel: Get a broad and solid education. Stay curious and open to learning across disciplines. The challenges of the future will require integrated solutions, so be prepared to think creatively and work collaboratively. And always remember, science is not just about knowledge; it's about making a positive impact on the world.
Dr. Alan Finkel's insights and experiences highlight the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and the transformative power of science and technology. His contributions continue to inspire and guide future generations in their pursuit of knowledge and innovation.

Q: Welcome to the first edition of KPIT STEM Dialogues. We are very happy to have Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar as our first speaker. Dr. Mashelkar is a world-renowned scientist known for his transformative work in the field of science and technology. He has received numerous awards, including the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. He has also been the Director General of CSIR and has received 45 honorary doctorates from institutions around the world.

Q: Dr. Mashelkar, you have been involved in various scientific and academic institutions and have led numerous initiatives. What are the four or five areas of scientific development that you think will be highly impactful over the next 25-30 years?

Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar: Thank you for having me. There are several key areas that will be highly impactful:

New Biology: Advances in synthetic biology and tools like CRISPR-Cas9 have revolutionized our ability to read and write genomes. This will enable us to address genetic diseases and create plants that can withstand climate change.

Digital Technologies: Exponential technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and quantum computing will continue to grow. These technologies will transform industries and improve our daily lives.

Clean Energy Technologies: To combat climate change, we need to focus on decarbonization. This includes developing technologies like green hydrogen, which is produced through water electrolysis using renewable energy sources.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The future of science lies in breaking down the borders between different fields. Interdisciplinary research will lead to significant breakthroughs and innovations.

Q: Your life has been an extraordinary journey, from studying under streetlights to becoming a renowned scientist. What lessons have you learned, and what advice would you give to young students?

Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar: My journey has taught me several important lessons:

Power of Ideas: It's not the power of the budget that matters, but the power of ideas. Innovative thinking can compete globally, regardless of resources.

Risk-Taking: Embrace adventurous and audacious ideas. Failure should be seen as a First Attempt In Learning (FAIL).

Borderlessness: Interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial. Break down the borders between different fields of science and engineering.

Inclusion: Make high technology work for the poor. Science should help improve the lives of the underprivileged.

Continuous Improvement: Always believe that your best is yet to come. Keep striving for excellence every day.

Q: At the age of 80, you remain incredibly active. Can you describe a typical week in your life?

Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar: My weeks are filled with diverse activities. Last week, for example, I gave awards in Sangli, chaired an advisory council at IIT Bombay Research Academy, worked on my upcoming book on exponential improvement, interviewed a candidate for the Jio Institute, and attended several other engagements. Balancing academic, industry, and social responsibilities keeps me energized and motivated.

Q: What do you see as your dearest achievements and moments of despair?

Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar: One of my proudest achievements is being elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society, a recognition that only three Indian engineers have received since 1660. Another was playing a role in establishing Technology Day in India, which celebrates significant scientific and technological achievements. Moments of despair include the challenges and opposition faced when implementing transformative changes, but perseverance and commitment to the greater good have always guided me through.

Q: Looking ahead, how do you envision the world of science 25 years from now, and what advice do you have for our audience?

Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar: The world of science will be dominated by digitalization, democratization, and decarbonization. Innovations in these areas will drive exponential changes, creating new opportunities and challenges. My advice is to embrace these changes, focus on interdisciplinary learning, and strive to make a positive impact. Remember, your aspirations are your possibilities. Keep pushing boundaries and believe that your best is yet to come.

Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar's journey and insights highlight the power of perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to making science work for the betterment of society. His contributions continue to inspire and guide future generations.