The transition of a simple cell into a complex one, billions of years ago, is the reason we share the planet with millions of wonderful species of microbes, plants and animals today. My research focusses on “what drove that biological transition?”

The approach involves a nuanced understanding of ancient marine environments, via novel and cutting-edge geochemical techniques. My research questions key concepts, and explores links between early Earth evolution, the origin of complex life and formation of precious mineral deposits. Geology has offered me a wonderful medium (the rock record) to travel as far as 3.5 billion years ago!

My research topic was fascinating enough to encourage me to move to Australia from my home country India in 2014 for my PhD at the University of Tasmania. Post-graduation in 2017, I continued as a postdoctoral researcher in Tasmania alongside branching out into fields of public outreach, geoscience communication and diversity initiatives. As a person colour, a migrant and as a woman I am always ready to communicate issues pertaining to intersectionality.

Dr Indrani Mukherjee is a Superstar of STEM.