Dr. Sharmishta Mitra is a Professor in the department of Mathematics and Statistics at IIT Kanpur. Her research interests include order statistics and its applications, order estimation of nested non-linear models and econometrics.
Growing up in Kolkata, I attended South Point School, renowned as the city's first co-educational institution. My father, a mechanical engineer, worked for an Indo-German company, while my mother, despite her academic qualifications in Bengali literature and classical music, remained a homemaker due to my father's busy schedule. Despite the challenges, my upbringing was positive, and my school days were memorable, although the environment was highly competitive, especially regarding preparation for engineering and medical entrances.
Despite societal pressure to pursue engineering or medical sciences, I was more inclined towards subjects like languages, mathematics, and history. When it came to choosing my academic stream after the 10th grade, I opted for mathematics and economics, aiming for a career in financial analysis. Despite skepticism from others, I enrolled in Statistics in Presidency College, known for its history and notable alumni, including Nobel laureate Abhijit Banerjee. I chose statistics over economics, despite societal pressure, and remained committed to my decision, driven by the applied nature of statistics and its potential for creativity. I reflect on my exposure to eminent professors and the academic atmosphere at Presidency College, which significantly influenced my academic trajectory.
After completing my undergraduate studies, I became disillusioned with the treatment of Statistics during my Master's Program at Baliganj Science College, where the focus was more on theoretical aspects than practical applications. I decided to drop out and my life took a significant turn when I learned about the opportunity to pursue a Master's degree in Statistics at IIT Kanpur through Professor Rahul Mukherjee, an alumnus of Presidency College. Despite limited information about the program, I decided to take the entrance test with a group of fellow students, ultimately leading to our selection and enrollment at IIT Kanpur.
The process of applying for and securing admission to IIT Kanpur's Statistics program was challenging yet exciting. The rigorous selection process, including a written test and interview, and the overwhelming reactions from family members upon receiving acceptance were significant moments. Despite initial apprehensions, my peers and I embraced the opportunity, recognizing the unique academic environment at IIT Kanpur.
Following completion of our Masters, my husband, Amit, and I both decided to pursue our PhDs at the same institution. Despite other opportunities, we chose to remain at our alma mater due to our strong connection to the place and its academic environment. Amit excelled academically throughout his educational journey, becoming Professor Debashish Kundu's first PhD student.
Post-PhD, we had various options, including postdoctoral fellowships abroad, but fate had other plans. Despite uncertainties about our future income and career paths, we followed our hearts and tied the knot. We went on to work at the Reserve Bank of India, working on advanced financial modelling of large amounts of data. Subsequently, Amit was offered a postdoctoral fellowship at Uppsala University in Sweden, while I chose to take a leave without pay to spend time with our newborn child. Eventually, Amit joined IIT Bombay as faculty, embarking on his academic journey, while I returned to my job at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
The landscape of statistics careers in India was small, with limited opportunities available outside academia. I eventually transitioned back to academia after a decade-long hiatus, accepting a visiting faculty position at my alma mater, IIT Kanpur. This transition was not without challenges, but the support and camaraderie of my colleagues, who were once my teachers, made the journey smoother. Despite starting my regular faculty position relatively later in my career, I harbored no regrets, as my previous experiences enriched my understanding of the subject and its real-world applications.
Upon joining the faculty, I faced questions about my research plans, which traditionally should emphasize theoretical rigor rather than applied work. Reflecting on my journey, I realized that my PhD research focused heavily on theoretical mathematical statistics, while my work at RBI involved econometric modeling. Despite external expectations, I now focus more on reliability and survival analysis, which bridges my original research area with practical applications.
As I approach the final phase of my professional career, I contemplate the evolution of statistics careers in India. The increasing demand for professionals skilled in financial modeling and data analysis reflects the growing importance of mathematics and statistics in various industries. With advancements in technology and computing power, the ability to extract meaningful insights from data has become paramount, leading to lucrative career opportunities in fields such as high-frequency trading and financial analytics.
Reflecting on my own career choices, I offer advice to high school students, particularly girls, emphasizing the importance of financial independence and pursuing professions that support their financial stability. While building a successful career is essential, it should not overshadow other aspects of life. I encourage individuals to follow their passions and dreams, even if it means making unconventional choices or swimming against the current.
Despite the sacrifices and compromises inherent in balancing personal and professional priorities, I emphasize the value of following one's heart and prioritizing personal fulfillment. For me, the decision to take a year-long leave without pay to spend time with my young child, despite its potential impact on my professional trajectory, was a deeply fulfilling choice. In hindsight, I cherish the experiences and memories gained during that time, recognizing them as invaluable moments in my personal journey.
Expressing gratitude to influential figures in my life, I acknowledge the pivotal roles played by my parents and teachers at various stages of my journey. Their guidance and support sculpted me into an independent individual capable of making adjustments when necessary. Particularly, my mother's sacrifices and teachings instilled in me the importance of prioritizing family alongside professional aspirations.
Emphasizing the significance of a strong support system, I recognize the invaluable contributions of my family, especially my spouse, children, and in-laws. The unwavering support from loved ones, coupled with a conducive family environment, facilitates the pursuit of professional endeavors, particularly for women who often juggle multiple responsibilities.
Concluding the interview, I express gratitude to my colleagues at IIT, who, despite my decade-long absence, welcomed me warmly and provided invaluable support. Their encouragement instilled confidence in my ability to reintegrate into academic life successfully.