Tell us about yourself
I am Ajay Devda, a PhD student in the Watershed Sciences program in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Sustainability. I joined the program in Fall 2024. I am from India. I grew up in Ratlam, in the central part of India, and then lived in different regions of the country for my undergraduate and master’s degrees. I love to cook Indian cuisine, play badminton, write for people, and spend time traveling to unknown parts of the world. My research focuses on transboundary wetland management under changing Earth system dynamics and developing remote sensing-based solutions and policy frameworks for better management of these fragile ecosystems.

When did you know that you wanted to become a scientist? What do you like most about your research field?
I grew up in a family of teachers, where stories of scientists, discoveries, and space missions were part of my upbringing. I dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot and even attempted to join the Indian Air Force, but was unsuccessful. Instead, I pursued engineering to immerse myself in scientific discoveries. While my fascination with space sciences remained, I was equally intrigued by Earth itself—its origins and the unique conditions that make it habitable among billions of planets. These questions and my thirst for exploration eventually led me to my true calling: Climate Science.

How would you explain your research to someone who is not a scientist? Can you summarize it in 5 sentences?
Wetlands are the most productive ecosystems on Earth; they support significant biogeochemical processes and play vital roles in the water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles. Hydrological variables are key to managing these ecosystems, their emissions, and their services. However, due to their transboundary locations and related conflicts, about one-third of wetlands are not properly managed and require joint monitoring and management among neighboring countries. My research aims to develop remote sensing models for managing transboundary wetlands and to improve their representation in Earth system models to enhance predictions and reduce uncertainties.

What are your hobbies and preferred activities when you are not doing science?
When I’m not doing science, I enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes, playing badminton, or dancing at home. I also take time to write, connect with people, and participate in leadership organizations.

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your research?
One of the major challenges in my research is data collection from the field. As the study sites are located in transboundary regions, mostly remote and less accessible, data availability is poor, and sometimes there are no monitoring stations. In such cases, I have to collect data myself, which requires long trips, tiring schedules, and substantial funding. Secondly, as an interdisciplinary researcher, finding common ground between science and policy requires an immense amount of brainstorming and a strong understanding of methods, concepts, and limitations.

What are some of the challenges you face as an international scholar/student?
Starting a new life as an international student in a foreign country is never easy. Building friendships and connecting with the local community can be challenging due to language barriers, cultural differences, and varying perspectives on life. I come from a vibrant culture rich in festivals and social events, so adapting to a more individualistic and growth-oriented lifestyle has been particularly challenging for me.

Can you describe a city or place in your country that everyone should visit, and what would you recommend doing there?
India offers countless incredible places to visit, but I highly recommend Bombay—often called the “City of Dreams”—where life never slows down. The spirit of the people and their way of cherishing life is something everyone should experience. To truly feel Bombay, travel by local transport like trains and autos, savor the street food, and spend an evening at Marine Drive soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Other places I recommend visiting include the natural and historical heritage of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, which sustain the cultural roots and spiritual essence of humanity.

To know more about Ajay you can visit : https://sites.google.com/view/ajaydevda