India Must Boost Scientific Infrastructure for Global Research, Says Nobel Laureate Joachim Frank

New Delhi, October 27 (Daily Kiran) : Nobel Prize-winning professor Joachim Frank from Columbia University has made significant remarks regarding India’s role in future technologies and scientific research. Speaking in New Delhi, he outlined the essential needs for India to become a leading force in science and innovation, particularly emphasizing the direction for young scientists.

Frank expressed his surprise at the dimensions of this endeavor, noting, “Discussing the future in terms of technology seems very effective, and I am pleased to be a part of it. India is clearly a subcontinent with tremendous opportunities and potential, especially in human capacity. What is truly needed is hardware technology.”

He pointed out that in his field, specifically cryo-electron microscopy, there are currently only six instruments available for many aspiring researchers. To become competitive, he believes India needs to increase this number to at least 20 or more.

Discussing the role of artificial intelligence in scientific research, Frank stated, “I view AI as a tool, not a driving force. There is a significant misunderstanding regarding AI’s capabilities. Following this path can be quite dangerous. For me and many others trained in science, research is experience-based, and AI can only play a supportive role.” While AI excels in handling large datasets and identifying trends, he cautioned against the misconception that it can operate autonomously. “It cannot and should not be autonomous; it can only assist.”

Frank elaborated that, for instance, in structural biology, AI requires training data. Although substantial data from X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM has been accumulated over decades, there are many research areas lacking data, leaving AI blind in those fields. “It cannot generate anything without data,” he noted.

He emphasized the necessity for foundational science and proper tools in India. While investments have been made in X-ray crystallography, emerging technologies like cryo-electron microscopy are crucial for drug development, yet the number of available instruments remains negligible. With such limited investment, he warned that it will take a long time for India to catch up.

Addressing the challenges faced by scientists today, Frank noted that the overwhelming amount of information available, especially on the internet and social networks, makes it difficult for young scientists to find their direction. He urged them to focus on pressing global issues, such as climate change and political challenges, and to invest in solving these problems. “It’s essential that we present clear paths for young scientists to follow,” he said.

Reflecting on his own early career, Frank recalled a time of confusion similar to what young scientists face today. “Back then, there was not enough information available to know where to go, and the internet did not exist. People had to go to public libraries to read the proceedings of conferences they attended. I found my way slowly,” he shared. “Today, the situation is the opposite; the flood of information can make finding a path challenging.”

To enhance world-class scientific discoveries in India, he stressed the importance of investing in areas of greatest significance. National resource centers should be established where researchers can send their samples. “In structural biology, this is a critical field for the development of molecular medicine. Medicine should truly move towards personalized, patient-centered treatment, as current drugs are developed with an imaginary average person in mind,” he concluded.