Institution: Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory
Nationality: Indian
First
First computer: Solaris
Favourite IT technology: Java
1. What's your role within grid computing?
I have multiple roles –
as a developer, I develop the software for Open Science Grid. I was involved in developing the FermiGrid matchmaking service, which matches incoming grid jobs to various compute resources at Fermilab. I also develop installation and testing tools for the Open Science Grid storage software.
as a tester, I test the Open Science Grid software before it goes in to production
as a troubleshooter, I help diagnose problems with the Open Science Grid software.
2. Why did you get in to grid?
My very first job experience at Fermilab landed me in to the grid world (OSG was called Grid3 at that time). The task involved running an application on the grid. The whole process was very interesting and the diversity of the job attracted me to it and I am still a part of it.
3. What did you study at university?
I did my Bachelors in Electronics Engineering from Kurukshetra University, India and completed my Masters Degree in Computer Science from University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
4. What did you want to be at school?
Several things actually..
During middle school, I would put on my mom’s sandals and pretend to be a teacher .…Then in high school I wanted to be a doctor…seeing a frog getting dissected was the end of it…I realized I didn’t have a very strong heart. As years passed by, I decided to try Electronics and then moved to Computer Science...
5. What are the highlights of your job?
The diversity - I get to be a developer, a troubleshooter, support and maintenance person
It makes it very interesting as I get to face different challenges on a daily basis.
6. What are the lowlights of your job?
Can't think of any at the moment.
7. What do you do when you’re not at work?
When I am not working - I love to watch TV sitcoms/thriller movies and taking care of my little garden. I also enjoy trying out new eating places... Cooking is not my cup of tea... I am glad my husband, Vijay is a great cook.
8. What are your goals for the next year?
To learn as many new technologies as I can and apply what I learn to my work.
9. Would you encourage your children to get in to grid and IT?
Grid/IT is definitely a promising field and a good career choice. But, I would leave it up to them to decide the field they want to go into.
10. What do you want to be when you grow up?
I would like to keep learning and growing my knowledge base ...