As part of the SEED feature Women in Science & Engineering, Lalitha gave the following answers to questions about how she came to work in the world of science.

Question: What led to your choosing science/engineering as a profession? Did a particular event direct your choice? Did someone significant influence you? What factors most influenced your choice?

Answer: In high school, I had two main options. I loved playing shuttle badminton (a popular game in India) and dreamed of having an opportunity of becoming a professional player. I also liked my science and math classes. To choose science in college and engineering in University was a natural step. This decision was to a large extent shaped by social pressure. I realized that I did not have much of a career in India if I had pursued my love for badminton. On the other hand, I could be more financially independent if I chose to pursue a career in science. This decision was also in sync with my parents' expectations of me. So, choosing science/engineering as a profession was a natural choice. In hindsight, I am very happy with this choice.

Q: Have you ever found yourself in a professional situation where your being a woman resulted in you or your work receiving inequitable treatment? How did you deal with the situation?

A: No; on the contrary. In the past, I have often found myself in situations where I am the only woman in a room full of men (for example, at a class). Sometimes, it is possible to take advantage of this situation. Since I am the only woman, I get noticed and my ideas are heard.

Q: Did you ever consider dropping out of science? If so, for what reason and what made you stay?

A: No.

Q: What impact has your choice of career had on your family life?

A: My choice of career has had a very positive impact on my family life. Both my husband and I are financially independent and can afford to pursue our dreams. We also love traveling to other countries and it is not difficult to find a job in most countries with a career in science/engineering.

Q: What advice would you share with young female scientists today?

A: To dream and to pursue one's dreams. There is nothing that one cannot do if one sets one's mind to it.