From a Failed Physics Exam to Antarctica: The Inspiring PhD Journey of Dr. Priyanka Patel

Dr. Priyanka Patel’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, mentorship, faith, and the unwavering support of family. Once told she was “not capable of science,” she rose to become a Doctor of Physics and an Antarctic researcher—turning early setbacks into extraordinary achievements.

As a teenager, Priyanka dreamed of becoming a commercial pilot and chose Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry as her core subjects. However, her aspirations faced a major setback when she failed Physics in Class 11. The situation worsened when a teacher advised her mother to shift her to arts or commerce, declaring her unfit for science.

But her mother, Mrs. Hemangini Patel, refused to accept that verdict. She asked for just one month to prove her daughter’s potential and found the right mentor in Mr. Amit, a physics tutor who understood Priyanka’s learning style. With focused guidance and relentless determination, Priyanka reappeared for the exam—and scored an impressive 67 out of 70 in Physics. This marked the beginning of her deep and lasting connection with the subject.

She went on to complete her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Physics, followed by the most demanding phase—her PhD. Like many scholars, her doctoral journey involved long hours, repeated failures, and constant pressure to publish. Reflecting on the experience, she says, “A PhD teaches patience. You fail every day, but you must stand firm like a tree in a storm.”

Throughout this journey, Priyanka found strength in spirituality. She believes that science and spirituality are not separate, but complementary. She humbly credits the blessings of Krishna and Radha for giving her clarity, courage, and inner balance during difficult times.

Her research career took shape at Ganpat University, which played a crucial role in her academic growth. A significant turning point came when she was selected as a trainee at the Space Applications Centre (SAC), part of Indian Space Research Organisation, in Ahmedabad. She worked in the Cryospheric Sciences Division, focusing on ice-sheet research.

Based on her performance, she was appointed as a Junior Research Fellow on a collaborative project titled “Spatio-Temporal Investigation of Ice Sheet Mass Balance,” under the guidance of Sandip R. Oza, who recognized her analytical and imaginative abilities.

Her PhD supervisor, Kunvar Yadav, played a vital role by providing structured guidance, trust, and encouragement—ensuring her doctoral journey remained balanced and focused.

A defining moment came when she participated in a 10-day glacier field training at the Drang Drung Glacier in Ladakh, conducted by Faruq Azam in collaboration with UNESCO. This was her first real encounter with snow and glaciers—transforming her research from theoretical analysis into a deeply personal scientific passion.

Soon after, she received a rare opportunity to join an Antarctic expedition as part of her PhD work. After clearing medical tests and completing Pre-Antarctic training, she began her journey from Goa to Cape Town, and finally to Antarctica. Reflecting on the experience, she says, “That place stole my heart—it felt like heaven on Earth.”

Upon returning, she faced the final challenge: writing and defending her PhD thesis. After completing all requirements—publications, reviews, and viva—she received confirmation of her final defence on 18 December 2025. Despite the nerves, she presented her research successfully and finally heard the words she had worked years for:

“Congratulations, you are now Dr. Priyanka Patel.”

She recalls that the standing ovation from her parents in that moment meant more than the degree itself.

Dr. Priyanka Patel dedicates her success to her parents, Mrs. Hemangini Patel and Mr. Mahesh Patel, and her brother, Mr. Nikunj Patel, whose unwavering support carried her through every challenge. She also expresses deep gratitude to her mentors, colleagues, Space Applications Centre, NCPOR, and Ganpat University.