Associate Director, Academic and Government Relations (India)

An enabler, mentor, and leader with 16+ years of experience in science promotion, communication and business development. Smita has a Ph.D. degree from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore with a history of working in the biotechnology industry at the start of the career trajectory.
Smita works at CACTUS Communications as Associate Director, Academic and Government Relations (India) and is responsible for growing the Science/Research Communications business across research sectors by engaging with decision makers and introducing them to CACTUS legacy, ethos, capabilities; networking and cultivating relationships.
Prior to joining CACTUS, she led IndiaBioscience for five plus years and was responsible for establishing the strategic vision and partnerships; growth, fundraising, grants and team management; and overseeing the activities of the networking, communication, education, data & policy and skill-building verticals. She is passionate about 'Careers in Science', 'Mentoring', and developing courses for 'professional development'.