Careers in academia exist beyond research and publications. There are always aspects more than what meets the eye. Often, we tend to learn about what is made available and evident, leaving behind many questions. It is only natural for aspiring scientists to have questions that shape their minds and impact their research. Some questions pertain to professional realms, others may relate to more broader perspectives on ambitions, inspirations, and what one deems as meaningful. Not every day do we get the opportunity to present these floating concerns at a forum and have experts address and pay heed to the same. In this session, a successful scientist with many years of experience will provide a look back to give a personal perspective of her/his career.

This year, we have the absolute pleasure of having with us Professor Todd A. Ehlers, who is an all-round geologist, head of the Earth Surface Dynamics group at the University of Tuebingen, Germany. Todd’s work has been contributing to better understand how tectonic, climatic and biogenic forces interact and drive landscape evolution, using an ensemble of techniques such as thermochronology, cosmogenic nuclides, numerical modelling, near-surface geophysics. Besides his research expertise, we shall engage in conversations regarding the challenges that came his way, and the manner in which he overcame those, and how his research shaped his life and in turn, how his life is impacted by the research he does. The discussions shall offer a unique opportunity to learn and empathise with a scholar’s work and life that has inspired many. The session shall conclude with the prospect of questions that Todd shall be happy to answer.