Ishika, 22, just won her state's young innovator award. She hopes to inspire girls in STEM

Ishika Mahajan, a 22-year-old research scientist in Adelaide, has dedicated the last four years to advancing the field of brain cancer research in Australia. Her passion extends to fostering greater representation of girls in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Ishika Mahajan, 22, winner of the young innovator award in South Australia. Credit: Ishika Mahajan

Key Points

• Ishika Mahajan was honoured with the 2023 Young Innovator of the Year Award by Women in Innovation (WINN), a South Australian government-supported initiative recognising exceptional women.
• At the age of 22, Ishika Mahajan has garnered multiple awards and acknowledgments.
• The young scientist expresses her desire to mentor girls aspiring to overcome barriers in the STEM field.

Mahajan, who describes herself as a "small-town girl from Punjab" (north India), said she consistently aspired to achieve higher goals.

Recently, she was honoured with the Young Innovator of the Year Award 2023 by Women in Innovation (WINN), an awards program supported by the South Australian government to celebrate inspiring women.

"A guiding principle in my life, instilled by my father, is to aspire for ambitious dreams in order to attain significant life goals. This is the philosophy I've embraced," she said.

Ishika Mahajan Credit: Ishika Mahajan

She explained that her "challenging" journey in Australia began four years ago as an international student.

"I have worked hard to build personal and professional connections from scratch. Today, people recognise me and my work, which I truly believe is crucial for new migrants," she added.

"I've actively engaged in multiple initiatives, leading to the accumulation of over 30 accolades, primarily for my achievements in leadership and contributions to STEM."

Mahajan was among the finalists of the 7News Young Achiever Awards and the University of Adelaide STEM Award, while she has also received a BUPA UniSA International Student Grant, UniSA Sport Club Colours Award and a Vacation Studentship by the Cancer Council.

Her work as a scientist

Focused on addressing the most deadly forms of brain cancers, Mahajan is actively exploring inventive therapeutic approaches.

Leveraging her diverse expertise in AI Machine Learning, and Bioinformatics, she has pinpointed potential therapeutic targets.

Ishika Mahajan (R) receiving an award. Credit: Ishika Mahajan

During her honours at the Centre for Cancer Biology, she is validating these findings by repurposing FDA-approved drugs typically employed in the treatment of central nervous system disorders and cancers through meticulous experimentation.

"I discovered my passion in researching brain cancer, recognising that there is a significant journey ahead in addressing this formidable and deadly form of cancer," Mahajan, who has recently joined CSIRO, said.

Family support is crucial

Mahajan attributed her current accomplishments to the unwavering support she receives from her family.

Ishika Mahajan with her parents and siblings. Credit: Ishika Mahajan

"I hail from Gurdaspur (Punjab) where people still prefer marrying their daughters rather than investing in their education," she opined.

"However, my father held a different perspective and consistently backed my ambition to pursue studies abroad. In fact, one of his friends questioned why he was investing so much in my international education."

Embarking on an academic journey abroad posed a significant financial challenge, but Mahajan managed to secure a generous scholarship from the University of South Australia.

"We are three siblings, and funding my overseas education was still a considerable expense. However, my father was willing to cover the costs; fortunately, I received a scholarship that eased the financial burden," she said.

Message to international students

Mahajan said she is now determined to take the lead in the STEM field while also motivating other young women to pursue their passions.

"During my childhood, my mother ensured that I read about women scientists who achieved recognition and shattered barriers. This has had a significant impact on me," she said.

Ishika Mahajan (third from left) with other South Australia HELP awardees. Credit: Ishika Mahajan

"I plan to do PhD but also my goal is to make a positive impact on my community by providing guidance to young girls aspiring to pursue careers in STEM. I plan to achieve this through mentoring and active support for initiatives that promote and enhance STEM education," she added.

In her message for fellow international students, she emphasised the significance of perseverance.

"To build a life in this new environment, it's crucial to actively take the initiative and venture beyond your comfort zone by participating in activities that may seem daunting," she said.

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