I am Stephy Jose, a postdoctoral researcher currently working at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Hyderabad. From a young age, I was drawn to science, curious about how things worked. Physics, in particular, interested me—not because it was easy, but because it wasn’t. It always felt mysterious, like it held secrets about the universe waiting to be discovered. Ironically, physics was also the subject where I scored the least in school, but that only made me want to understand it more.

I pursued a Bachelors in Physics from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, and later a Masters in Physics from University of Hyderabad. In 2019, I joined TIFR Hyderabad for my PhD under Kabir Ramola, focusing on "Hydrodynamics and fluctuations in models of active particle motion."

My research – Understanding active matter

My PhD research centred on understanding active matter—systems made up of self-propelled entities that move using their own internal energy. These range from humans and animals to bacteria and synthetic particles. Have you ever seen a flock of birds or a school of fish move in perfect sync? Even microscopic bacteria exhibit collective motion, forming dynamic clusters. My work involved developing mathematical models using tools from Statistical Physics to understand how these entities interact, and self-organise into clusters, waves, or other emergent structures. A major focus of my research was on how noise or unpredictability influences their motion, how they decide where to go next, and how their initial conditions—like their starting positions affect their future trajectories.

Applying for postdoctoral positions – A real struggle

I started applying for postdoctoral positions six months before completing my PhD. Looking back, I would say the earlier you start, the better. The best time to apply is during the fall (September–December) and spring/summer (March–June) cycles, when universities advertise open positions.

The process, however, was far from easy. Openings in my specific field were rare, and when positions did exist, they were competitive. I reached out to experts in my field, but many simply didn’t have funding. I considered switching fields, but most labs preferred candidates with prior experience, as postdocs are expected to deliver results quickly. The constant rejections made the journey disheartening. I reached out to Hartmut Löwen, Professor at Heinrich Heine University (HHU), Düsseldorf, Germany and he suggested applying for externally funded fellowships. This would allow me to work independently on problems I was passionate about, without being tied to a lab’s existing grants.

What is the Humboldt Fellowship and when to apply?

The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation offers a prestigious research fellowship for postdocs and experienced researchers—the Humboldt Research Fellowship—which allows international scientists to conduct independent research in collaboration with a German host. It provides generous financial support, family benefits, and language courses.

One of the biggest advantages is the Humboldt Network, which facilitates long-term professional relationships, and career growth opportunities. Plus, you get to explore Germany, from historic sites to stunning landscapes—who wouldn’t love that?

If you have finished your PhD within the last four years (for postdocs) or twelve years (for experienced researchers), you are good to go! Strong publications, a solid research plan, and a potential host in Germany are key. Your host should be someone actively working in your field, who is enthusiastic about mentoring you. The best part? No fixed deadlines! You can apply anytime. But don’t let that fool you into procrastinating—processing takes months, and securing a strong host is crucial. I would say, give yourself at least six months before you hope to start.

My journey – A moment of reflection

Although I was enthusiastic at the beginning of my PhD, I felt a noticeable decline in that energy as I approached the end. Writing papers, revising manuscripts, working on thesis, and giving seminars became routine. Somewhere along the way, the deep curiosity that once drove me started to wane. This made me question myself. I had everything required for a successful PhD—enough publications, solid research—but I lacked something more profound: satisfaction. I always wanted to continue in academia, but I wondered whether I would excel in this field? Could I guide students effectively?

At the same time, I wanted to explore new directions. My research so far has been largely theoretical. But I wanted to see my abstract ideas come to life. That meant stepping into unfamiliar territories. Could I excel in a new field?

One thing I appreciated about the Humboldt Fellowship was that it gives me the freedom to take that risk. The rest, I would figure out along the way. I hope this opportunity helps me understand where I stand and what I truly want to do. For now, I am committed to giving it my 100%.

How I applied

My journey started with identifying a host whose work closely aligns with my interests. I also received valuable feedback from my PhD supervisor and previous fellows. The application included:

• A research proposal (after multiple iterations!)

• A CV and publication list (quality over quantity)

• Reference letters (preferably from people who really know your work)

• A support letter from the host scientist in Germany (someone established and excited to work with you!)

One of the unique aspects of this fellowship is that there is no interview. Selection is purely based on your application documents. This means that every document must be crystal clear and compelling.

Tips for a good research proposal

• Strong research idea – Should be well-thought-out, either building on your PhD work or exploring a new direction.

• Think broadly and ambitiously – Consider the bigger picture and the potential impact.

• Clarity and precision – The first paragraphs should clearly state your research objective, why it is important, and how it differs from existing work. It should be understandable by non-experts.

• Well-structured format – Use well-defined sections with headings for readability.

• Use visual elements – Include figures with captions to enhance understanding.

• Detailed methodology and research plan – Clearly outline your plan.

• Include preliminary results – Strengthens your case.

• Future directions – Show that you have a long-term vision.

• Your unique fit – Considering your expertise and background.

• Role of the German host – Describe how they will contribute and what you will bring to their institute.

• Page limit – Maximum 5 pages, excluding references.

• Compelling conclusion – End with a strong closing statement.

My biggest advice? Start early, find the right host, and don’t hesitate to seek feedback on your proposal. If you enjoy research, collaboration, and a bit of adventure, this fellowship is a fantastic opportunity.

I believe in hard work and smart work, guided by honesty, compassion, and discipline—values that shape both my personal and professional life. Every day feels like an opportunity to learn something new, and I find it difficult to sit idle. There is so much to explore, and life is too short to let it pass by without purpose. And who knows? Maybe your next big idea will take shape over a cup of German coffee!

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in behavioural ecology?

During my second year of BSc, our class went on a field trip to the Western Ghats. We planned to spend a day at the Centre for Ecological Sciences (CES) at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore. During this visit, I attended a talk by Raghavendra Gadagkar, which I found fascinating. We later visited his lab, where they studied the Ropalidia marginata wasp.

He encouraged us to ask questions and answered them eagerly. A year after this trip, he released his book, “Survival Strategies," which I found interesting. This experience inspired me to pursue a PhD in his lab.

Also, a new professor at my college, Srilanjan Bhattacharya, who was a student of Madhav Gadgil, often shared interesting stories about Madhav Gadgil, Raghavendra Gadagkar, and CES. These stories further fuelled my interest in CES, making it my dream to pursue a PhD there.

2. After your PhD in wasp at your dream lab, what prompted your transition from studying wasp to studying dogs, which was an entirely new model system for you?

I wanted to set up my lab in India, so I decided not to study social insects, as it would imply that I was doing the same thing as my PhD supervisor. To create an independent identity, I decided to look for a new model system. From my readings, I found three behaviour systems very interesting: crow, dog, and lastly, human infant behaviour. After discussing with my PhD supervisor and evaluating the pros and cons, I decided to pursue dog behaviour.

3. What challenges did you face while setting up your research group and transitioning to studying dogs?

Initially, people were doubtful, as I was planning to do a completely different thing. As they pointed out, “you don’t have any experience in this,” and my answer to them was:

That is what research is about. You do new things. I know the basic tools. So, I will be able to do it.

People were not convinced until I started publishing. To think of it, I did not face too many challenges because it felt like I had walked out of a lab and reached a new institute. Before I joined, my PhD senior, Annagiri Sumana, had joined six months earlier. She took me under her wing.

In my initial days at IISER Kolkata, doubts about my research remained. After one year, people began asking me about publishing papers. I felt that, because of my model system, that I was not taken seriously. Another challenge I faced when I started sending out papers was that all my reviewers were from abroad since no one had worked on dogs in India. I was asked very silly questions, like why dogs live on the street or why they eat biscuits. Although we were submitting video proof for our studies, it took time to convince people, which was a real challenge after I started my lab.

4. Would you like to tell us about some interesting results from your studies, particularly those that excite or surprise you?

One of my favourite findings is about dogs having joint families. Dog pups are always taken care of by a grandmother or aunt. We also looked at a concept called parent-offspring conflicts. Researchers have modelled it, but there are fewer experimental studies for which dogs can be a suitable study system.

There is a common conception that dogs approach us only for food, but an experiment from our lab showed that petting alone can develop trust without offering food.

Another fascinating result from our lab showed that dogs have an affinity for yellow, although we don’t yet understand why.

5. What advice based on your career would you like to give to young researchers in behavioural ecology?

The field of behavioural ecology is very diverse, so it would be difficult to generalise based on my career alone. I can only share what worked for me. I had many broad questions and multiple sub-questions that could be put together to build a story. To support these stories, experimental data is required.

We collect the data by studying live animals, and often the experimental protocol may not work. We face setbacks like the animal dying or not getting enough samples to complete the target for the day. Despite the challenges, we need to keep planning for the next day and stay committed to science. I suggest not setting very ambitious targets, as it takes time to publish a paper in this field.

6. How do you balance the demands of field work and research with other aspects of your life and career?

Nowadays, I am not actively involved in field work, as all of it is done by my students. I have become a manager of science rather than an active science worker. As you advance in your career, more students join; all of them need your time. So, I am more involved in brainstorming than doing active fieldwork.

My time balances out between teaching and wearing multiple hats of responsibilities and commitments to different committees. Then, of course, home is there. Everything demands time, resulting in work spilling over into my home time. I guess I can manage it well.

7. Do you think a PhD prepares you for a faculty position, or do you think there is something missing?

On average, I will say no. I think a PhD does not prepare you for a faculty position. One fine day, you become a faculty member, and you are supposed to know how to hire people, submit research grants, teach, design syllabi, and handle committees. This all comes to you without proper training. PhD programmes are not well-designed well, with supervisors expecting students to do full-time research without mentoring them for future roles.

8. How do you take your research from the field to the public and translate it into dog welfare?

I have received invitations from a couple of institutions to talk about my work, which would help animal welfare committees take steps to manage conflicts. These problems should be managed with the help of science, for which more research is required. Recently, I was invited by the Municipal Corporation of my town to become an advisor to a committee looking into dog problems. Efforts like these are taken locally, but there should be something at the national level too.

Policymakers should understand the science behind a problem before coming up with any policy.

To contribute from our side, we can encourage someone from our lab to start a startup. For example, shelter homes for stray dogs are poorly managed. If inputs are taken from scientific studies, better care can be provided to the animals.

9. What is one significant change that can benefit women pursuing a career in science?

Ideally, social prejudice should change, but I think we should start with policy-level changes. For example, childcare leave should be considered for both parents, as raising a child is a shared responsibility between genders. It is not just the mother’s responsibility to raise a child.

10. What was the most fulfilling moment of your career?

I think when I was invited to give a keynote address at the Canine Science Forum last year, it was really an honour for me. The Canine Science Forum congregates every two years, and all the big names from Europe in the field of canine science attend it.