Acknowledgements

It is said that a person is the average of all the people that surround him. I am glad to be guided and blessed by some of the best humans I have ever known. I mention them (elders) here in a non-exhaustive list so please don’t curse me if I forgot to mention you. If you’ve influenced me you know it and how thankful I am of having you by my side.

I start with my parents, Rahul and Shalini Mittal, who have often gone out of their comfort zone to ensure I’m comfortable.

Dr. SK Sanyal, Principal, BKBCE, is like a father-figure to me and I’ve learnt many life lessons under his tutelage. I make it a point to visit school whenever I am in town.

Mr. Parnab Mukherjee, for never being satisfied with what I do, and constantly pushing me to do better by myself and the community.

Dr. Amalin Prince, Associate Professor, BITS Goa, for introducing me to research, and teaching me about the best research practices.

Dr. Soumyadip Bandyopadhyay, Assistant Professor, BITS Goa, for teaching me scientific thought and civil service can go hand-in-hand.

Dr. Dominique Blouin, Research Engineer, Telecom Paris, one of the coolest people I know, for teaching me the importance of good work, and showing me that a researcher can have a vibrant life. Also, for introducing me to French culture.

Monsoor Shaik, for teaching me balance in life, tips and tricks when I was writing my first paper, and being super-kind.

Mohit Patil, for being the first researcher friend in my circle to push me in that direction.