Dr Darius Köster from University of Warwick Conducts an Engaging Workshop at Ashoka

Dr Darius Köster, a biophysicist from the University of Warwick, conducted a hands-on science workshop as part of the prestigious Lodha Genius Programme at Ashoka University.

The Lodha Genius Programme at Ashoka University is a multi-year educational programme to nurture India’s brightest young minds by equipping them with world-class academic support, practical life skills, and access to global experts.

Dr Köster’s ‘Building Simple Cytoskeletal Networks’ was conducted from 9-13 June and was part of the ‘Great Ideas Seminar’ series. The students gained hands-on experience with fundamental cell biology and biochemistry techniques in a real science lab setting.

“This is likely the first time many of these students have set foot in a lab environment,” said Dr Köster. “My hope is that by experiencing science in action, they’ll be inspired to explore STEM fields with confidence and curiosity.”

Actin, a major structural protein in all cells, plays a key role in maintaining cellular integrity, enabling movement, and powering muscle contractions via its interaction with the motor protein myosin. Through Dr Köster’s workshop, students witnessed firsthand how actin networks can be reconstituted in vitro, providing them with a unique entry point into molecular biology and the microscopic mechanics that underlie all life.

Dr Köster continues, “The students taking part in this programme are very smart, enthusiastic and curious, and it is a pleasure and privilege to work with them. This one-week program is a combination of small lectures combined with practical lab work, where they get insights into how we combine physics, biology and chemistry to understand the fundamental mechanisms driving cell shape and function. This teaching format enforces learning of the theoretical content and is modelled after our courses in the first year of Warwick’s MSci Integrated Natural Sciences.”

The Lodha Genius Programme continues to redefine the academic landscape for high-achieving Indian students by blending rigorous science and mathematics curricula with holistic development and access to mentorship networks that extend well beyond the classroom.