Chapter 1: The Genesis of a Scientific Passion

My fascination with science ignited when I first saw DNA on an agarose gel during a school trip to the National Dairy Research Institute in Karnal. The concept that scientists could visualize biomolecules, which I had always regarded as invisible, captivated me. In that moment, I resolved to become a scientist. My journey thereafter followed a conventional academic route until I reached the completion of my PhD.

Upon embarking on this journey, I held an idealized view of scientific progress and the life of a scientist. However, my experience at IISc revealed that reality diverged significantly from my expectations. I encountered numerous setbacks with my experiments and projects, challenges I hadn't anticipated. Yet, I learned that adversity is a powerful teacher, revealing one's true character.

Despite the challenges I faced, I gained invaluable insights—not only about science but also about my own strengths and weaknesses. I was fortunate to have a supportive circle of friends, which helped mitigate the isolation often associated with pursuing a PhD. While I sought therapy, the lack of available professionals limited its effectiveness. Nevertheless, I firmly believe in the importance of seeking professional support during difficult times, as mental well-being should take precedence over any academic achievement.

Interestingly, my PhD experience led me to realize that a long-term academic career was not my desired path. I yearned for a profession that allowed for greater creative expression, which I felt was often restricted to senior positions within scientific institutions. Through self-reflection, I discovered my passion for scientific drawing and illustration. Although I was not initially skilled in drawing, I dedicated time to honing my craft. I explored the rich biodiversity surrounding the IISc campus, sketching various specimens, and engaged with fellow natural history illustrators to enhance my understanding of the intersection between science and art.

With the unwavering support of my family, I was able to pursue my interests without immediate financial pressure. I began to establish my presence on social media and connected with various scientific communities. Eventually, opportunities arose as friends and colleagues organized conferences and sought assistance with poster and website design. One of my first paid gigs occurred at a UG festival at IISc, where a friend invited me to showcase my work. This marked a turning point; I began freelancing and illustrating for scientists. My work caught the attention of Minhaj Sirajuddin at inStem, who offered me a unique postdoctoral position focused on illustrating molecular interactions within cells.

The connections I cultivated at IISc, along with my experience at inStem, paved the way for fruitful collaborations. Currently, my work encompasses not only illustration but also storytelling and science communication. Through this journey, I've realized that we must not expect scientists to inherently be effective communicators. Instead, we need to invest in dedicated science communication initiatives and outreach programs within research institutions in India. It's also crucial to identify our audience when conveying scientific concepts to foster better understanding. I strive to incorporate this approach in my work. The reactions of the general public to my metaphorical representations of scientific ideas and the feedback from students during workshops bring me immense joy and fulfillment.

Reflecting on my peers, I believe I was one of the pioneers in venturing into this unconventional career path. Looking back, I wish I had undertaken a short-term research project or lab rotations before committing to a PhD. This experience would have allowed me to assess the research environment and make more informed decisions regarding my choice of institute, laboratory, mentor, and project. Therefore, I advise prospective PhD students to evaluate the lab culture and mentorship quality rather than solely focusing on a supervisor's publication record. If circumstances become untenable, it's essential to recognize your limits and consider transitioning to a different lab or even pursuing a different PhD altogether.

For those contemplating a career in science illustration, I recommend assessing whether you possess a natural inclination for visual thinking and an eye for aesthetics in presentations. Cultivating these abilities and acquiring new skills through workshops across the country is vital. Unfortunately, the lack of formal training in scientific illustration in India may contribute to the perception that this field is not a viable career option. Therefore, I suggest gaining a solid foundation in science and then integrating that knowledge with illustration skills. I advocate for the notion that all scientists should engage in drawing.

-Ipsa Jain, PhD in Molecular Biology and Oncology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

Editor's Note: Dr. Jain is a freelance science illustrator and communicator. Discover more about her work at www.ipsawonders.com and purchase her creations at www.instamojo.com/ipsawonders.

Chapter 2: The Art of Science Communication

In this chapter, we delve into the significance of effective science communication and the role of illustration in making complex concepts accessible.

In this engaging video, Mrs. Gardner explores the colorful world of painting, highlighting its connection to science and creativity.

"Let's Paint!" showcases the artistic process, demonstrating how creativity can enhance our understanding of scientific principles.