About Us
We empower graduate students and early career researchers with skills to craft impactful and meaningful careers in STEM.
Your academic degree is just the beginning. In today’s ever evolving ecosystem, building a meaningful career requires more than technical expertise- it calls for intentional upskilling, and nurturing the ability to communicate one’s value in diverse professional environments.
We believe that every student and researcher has a unique value to offer—your skills, your knowledge, and your aspirations deserve a special place in this world, and we are here to help them realize it.
What We Offer
We work in collaboration with academic institutions, industries, and like-minded organizations that share our vision of driving progress in the STEM ecosystem by investing in the next generation of changemakers. Our unique set of offerings will help you bridge the gap between academic excellence and real-world influence-
Skill Building for Real World Success: Gain the non-academic skills required to thrive beyond Academia and create a strong impact that is uniquely yours.
Networking Platforms: Share ideas, get connected to professionals and peers, find collaborators, and grow together through curated events and conversations.
About the Founder
With a doctorate in life sciences, Madhura holds a non-linear blend of experience which encompasses research, teaching, content development, content management, and strategic communications.
By leveraging the knowledge & expertise gained through her ongoing professional endeavours, she curates programs that are aligned with the latest trends observed within the science and technology ecosystem, ensuring that students are provided with the essential life skills needed to thrive beyond academia.
Collaborators
Mr. Dhawal Patil brings a blend of technical expertise and an inspiring sense of purpose to the realm of sustainable water management. He was the recipient of DAAD WISE Scholarship and pursued Master of Science in Hydro Science and Engineering from TU Dresden, Germany. He is passionate about creating environments where technical acumen meets personal fulfilment. At Academia Plus, Dhawal leverages his rich experience and dynamic vision to inspire others to explore the intersection of their technical skills and personal passion. His work is dedicated to enabling professionals and students alike to unearth their ikigai—transforming the pursuit of professional success into a journey of meaningful, sustainable impact.
Ms. Gayatri Ramachandran has over 10+ years of experience in Academia in teaching and mentoring and in the field of human genetic research in the life sciences industry. She is passionate about promoting mental well-being in Academia, and aspires to use her knowledge and experience in empowering students, particularly women in different fields of STEM, STEAM and STREAM. Collaborating with Academia Plus, she is keen on contributing towards maximising and nurturing the inherent potential and skills of Indian graduate students by facilitating different peer-learning activities and providing rich insights through her mentorship.
Former head of the Microbiology department of MES Abasaheb Garware College (Pune), Dr. Deshpande has over 30 years of rich experience in academic teaching and mentoring. During her academic tenure, she has pioneered in setting up an independent research unit with kind support from several national funding agencies, and was actively involved in implementing various soft skill sessions for undergraduate and post graduate students. Currently, she is a University-recognized PhD guide. As a collaborator for Academia Plus, she routinely provides inputs in developing skill-building and career counselling programs.