.png)
Falling in Love with Plant Sciences
MANMATH
Dear Young Friend,
When I was in school (10th Class), I didn’t have a deep fascination with plant biology. My knowledge about plants was limited, and honestly, I didn’t find them very exciting. However, as I pursued my graduation and later post-graduation in biotechnology, I slowly became more interested in plant science, realising how crucial plants are to our health and environment. They provide us with cleaner air, a healthier life, and even solutions for medicinal treatments.
One day, during a biology class (Intermediate), my teacher explained how plants grow, how they produce oxygen, and how their roots, stems, and leaves work together to sustain life. It felt like discovering a hidden universe right in front of us! That was the moment I knew I wanted to learn more about the incredible world of plants.
Image credits to Felix Mittermeier on Pexels
.png)
.png)
I studied (class 1-10th) in a rural area with limited resources (Rajnagar, Odisha), where science education lacked creativity, hands-on experiments, and clear explanations. However, in my intermediate studies, I had a knowledgeable teacher (Ms. Rajashree Samant, Lect. in Botany, SSJM College, Rajnagar, Odisha) who explained concepts well and demonstrated experiments, strengthening my fundamentals. Science is not just about theory but is driven by experiments and research-based concepts, making learning more engaging and insightful. This exposure sparked my curiosity, which deepened during my Botany (Hons.) graduation. The emphasis on experiential learning enhanced my understanding of plant systems, ultimately inspiring me to explore the field further in my higher studies.
My real passion developed when I learned about plant biotechnology (during my MSc. Bio-tech, at North Orissa University, Baripada, Odisha), especially in the conservation of edible and medicinal plants. These plants have powerful healing properties and play a significant role in drug development and pharmaceutical research. Many natural medicines, such as those derived from neem, turmeric, and aloe vera, have been used for centuries to treat various diseases. Studying how these plants produce bioactive compounds that fight infections, reduce inflammation, and support overall health fascinated me and motivated me to explore plant microbiology and biotechniques further.
However, research was not easy. Initially, I was fearful—especially when it came to calculations and complex experiments in the lab. During my intermediate studies, I performed microscopic examinations of plant specimens in microscopy and performed plant physiological experiments. These experiences gradually built my confidence and deepened my understanding of scientific research. Managing research work felt overwhelming, and I often doubted my abilities. But over time, with persistence and practice, I gradually improved and built confidence. I realised that research is not about being perfect from the start but about learning, adapting, and continuously growing.
As I grew older and pursued higher studies, I realised that biology isn't just about understanding life—it's about solving problems."
"
Scientists and researchers use biology to find cures for diseases, develop sustainable food sources, and even understand how ecosystems work. I became passionate about research because it allows us to ask questions and find real solutions that can change the world.
Research is the art of perseverance and making mistakes.
Research is not about perfection.
Image credits to Lidija Ostojić on Pexels
Now, working in the medical device industry, I am supporting the creation of healthier products that improve people’s lives (e.g., Blood Collection Kit). The principles I learned from plant science—understanding biological processes, developing innovative solutions, and ensuring safety and effectiveness—continue to guide my work in making medical devices that contribute to a healthier and safer world.
If you are curious about plant science or any other field, don’t be discouraged by challenges. Keep exploring, ask questions, and embrace learning. Science is about curiosity and persistence, and who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll make a discovery that benefits the world in ways we can’t even imagine today!
Happy exploring!
Manmath Kumar Rout
About Manmath
Manmath Kumar Rout has a postgraduate in Biotechnology and is serving as a QA/RA professional with 5+ years in medical devices & bio-products.
.jpg)
Related Posts
To Paying Attention
ZAKHIYA
"When you are curious is when you pay attention, and when you pay attention you get more curious, it's the one inexhaustible cycle that can wheel your journey. Life is long, life is tedious, the system will keep forcing you to determine but the world is ever changing and the only way to make sense of it all is to be curious and to pay attention, to what is around and to what is within."
Just Go with the Flow
BHAVNEET
"I am telling you this because I want you to understand, that you don’t have to know what you want to do in science. It’s not an intersection of roads, rather you are in a boat called Life floating in the ocean of scientific pursuits, and you can pick any direction you want. And guess what? You can always edit your course as you go along."
Share this page: