Behind the Test Tube: Q&A
Abhijith Suresh Babu—Graduate Student, McCamant Group
Where is home/Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Kerala, a beautiful state in the southern part of India, known for its lush greenery, serenebackwaters, and rich cultural heritage. Often called 'God’s Own Country,' Kerala stands out for its classical art forms like Kathakali and traditional Ayurvedic practices. It's also a major center for farming—especially rice, coconut, and an incredible variety of spices such as cardamom, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, which have made it famous in the global spice trade for centuries.
Why did you choose chemistry as a career?
I knew early on that I wanted to pursue science after finishing school, and I was fortunate to gain admission to IISER Thiruvananthapuram. Initially, I planned to major in mathematics, but during my coursework, I found myself drawn to physical chemistry— especially the mathematical aspects of it. The subject combined theprecision of math with the complexity of real-world systems, which really resonated with me. I also had the opportunity to intern in several research labs, which gave me hands-on experience and solidified my decision to build a career in chemistry
What do you like to do when not in the department?
When I’m not in the department, I love listening to music and spending time with friends— whether we’re relaxing in parks, hanging out at the beach, or trying out new restaurants. It’s a great way to unwind and stay connected.
A Rochester must?
The Lilac Festival at Highland Park is a favorite of mine. On rare nights, you can even catch the Northern Lights at Hamlin Beach, which is surreal. I also love exploring nearby trails—Seneca Park has waterfall views and a chance to spot animals from the zoo, and Turning Point Park’s boardwalk takes you right over the Genesee River to Lake Ontario. It’s such a great way to unwind and enjoy nature close to the city.
Feast/meal of the times? Details, please!
My favorite meal is the Aranmula Valla Sadhya, a legendary vegetarian feast served during the boat festival in Aranmula, Kerala. It features over 60 unique dishes, all served on a banana leaf— no repeats! What makes it magical is the spirit: you’re not supposed to ask for anything—the food just keeps coming, one surprise afteranother. It's more than a meal; it’s a celebration of generosity, tradition, and togetherness that always reminds meof home.
An inspiring book/movie/show?
A book that continues to guide and ground me is the Bhagavad Gita. Its teachings on duty, clarity of mind, and inner balance have helped me face challenges with calm and perspective.
One verse that resonates deeply with me is: “You have the right to perform your duty, but not to the fruits of your actions.” It reminds me to focus on the process, stay sincere in my efforts, and let go of the anxiety around outcomes. The Gita’s wisdom feels timeless, especially when navigating uncertainty or making big decisions.
A holiday that rocks? Care to tell us why?
Onam is Kerala’s most vibrant and joyful festival, celebrated with flower carpets, traditional dances, and the grand vegetarian feast known as Onam Sadhya, served on banana leaves with a wide variety of dishes. Rooted in Kerala’s agrarian culture, Onam also marks the rice harvest season and honors the hard work of farmers across the state. One of the most exciting highlights is the Vallam Kali or snake boat race, where massive, beautifully decorated boats rowed by synchronized teams glide through the backwaters to the rhythm of traditional songs. The energy, unity, and festive atmosphere—especially during the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Alappuzha—make Onam a truly unforgettable celebration that brings people together in the spirit of tradition and joy.
Fun fact or quote:
“Excellence happens not by accident. It is a process.” – Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, This reminds me that consistent effort, curiosity, and patience are key to growth. It’s not about instant success, but about showing up every day and learning along the way.
Ask me about…
Indian Cuisines and Kabaddi
The goal of this initiative is to highlight the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives in the Department of Chemistry and help our community develop stronger connections and synergies. You can think of these spotlights as the beginning of a conversation that we very much hope you will continue in the corridors of Hutch and beyond.
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