Dr. Nikita Hari’s journey from a small town in India to becoming a leading figure at the University of Oxford is a testament to resilience and vision. Guided by the mantra "Be the change you wish to see," she has turned adversity into a driving force for breaking barriers in STEM.
"...Be the change you wish to see. This mantra has been my anchor, reminding me that adversity isn’t a roadblock—it’s a catalyst for change. Every challenge, every barrier has only reinforced my resolve to stay strong and to make STEM a more inclusive, empowering space for those who come after me."
—Dr. Nikita Hari
Living by the dictum that "adversity isn't a roadblock," Dr. Nikita Hari's journey from India to the University of Oxford is a testament to resilience and determination. Raised in a small town surrounded by the electrical goods manufacturing industry, Dr. Hari's accomplishments were anything but ordinary. She defied conventions and, today, her impact spans engineering and education, where she thrives as an engineer, educator, and entrepreneur.
"I didn’t have living role models to look up to — but books became my gateway to a world of possibilities." Now, as the head of the Teaching and Research Design Support Group at Oxford University's Department of Engineering Science, Dr. Hari empowers and inspires the next generation, especially women in STEM.
Dr. Hari's passion for technology and education began at an early age. "I've always been captivated by the magic of physics — how abstract concepts can transform into real-world solutions that make a difference." Today, she channels her knowledge, skills, and insights to influence the dynamic fields of science, engineering diplomacy, and policy.
A trailblazer, breaking barriers as a woman in STEM, Dr. Hari is transforming the future of engineering education and creating opportunities for the next generation of women in STEM.
In an exclusive email interview with Urmila Marak, she shares her inspiring journey, the lessons she’s learned, and her bold vision for a more inclusive and empowering future in science and technology. Excerpts.
I have always been fascinated by the magic of physics — how abstract ideas can turn into real-world solutions that make a difference. Growing up in India in a household surrounded by electrical goods manufacturing, I was drawn to electricity from an early age. At the same time, I had a deep love for teaching — breaking down complex systems and learning alongside others always excited me.
As my journey unfolded, I realized how these two passions intertwined, shaping my career in unexpected ways. Seeing the potential of technology and education to bridge societal gaps, I was inspired to take an unconventional path — one that blends interdisciplinary research, practice, and policy to drive meaningful change.
Breaking into engineering as a woman — especially from a traditionally underrepresented background—meant challenging orthodoxy, navigating skepticism, and pushing through unconscious biases and social conditioning within myself and around me.
There was a lack of role models, a wholehearted support system, and at times, even basic acceptance. And truthfully, there are still moments when I feel the need to prove my worth repeatedly. You often find yourself working twice as hard while silently enduring the subtle (and not-so-subtle) dismissals, gaslighting, and disrespect that unfortunately remain ingrained in many working spaces.
I tackle these challenges by focusing on excellence, finding allies, and building resilience. Hard work is non-negotiable, but I also learned to work smart — strategizing, adapting, and ensuring my efforts create impact. More than anything, I refuse to let others define my potential and refuse to let go of my authenticity. I stay focused on the bigger picture, choosing my battles wisely while keeping my eyes set on the real goal — driving change and making space for those who come next.
Growing up, I was inspired by my parents, whose electrical manufacturing business instilled a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for education. From them, I learned the importance of loving what you do and pursuing what truly excites you. Visionaries like Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and trailblazing women in STEM, such as Kalpana Chawla, further fuelled my ambition. Their journeys showed me that with passion and purpose, it is possible to break barriers and carve your path.
At Oxford Engineering Science, my work sits at the crossroads of pedagogy, practice, and policy, fuelled by research. I am focused on shaping an ‘Engineering in Practice’ learning journey—designing systems, structures, and frameworks that create an immersive, integrated, and interdisciplinary engineering education.
My vision is to create a dynamic engineering learning ecosystem that bridges the gap between academia, industry, and community while preserving the academic freedom, creativity, and collegiate experience that makes the Oxford experience very special. Ultimately, it’s about engineering not just better professionals, but better citizens for a better world!
Beyond policies and processes, the real impact lies in shaping culture — engaging and inspiring students, shifting perspectives, and fostering an environment where learning goes beyond career-building to driving real, meaningful change in society.
The biggest challenge is carving out a space where I truly belong — as an intersectional academic and integrated practitioner — while balancing depth and breadth. It’s about excelling as a technical expert while driving systemic change in education and entrepreneurship. Walking this tightrope means constantly navigating different expectations, disciplines, and ecosystems.
This very fluidity is also my greatest opportunity. It gives me the freedom to shape the future of engineering education and technology-driven social impact in a way that’s both innovative and meaningful. It allows me to inspire, empower, and bring together diverse communities to create lasting change.
In the past years, the initiative I am particularly proud of is designing immersive, experiential, and dynamic learning models for engineering students — moving beyond traditional rote learning. I have developed an engineering thinking-based curriculum model that brings together all stakeholders — students, educators, industry, and policymakers — throughout the process, from design and development to delivery, review, and continuous improvement, to create and curate a holistic approach to learning.
This system's approach to engineering capacity-building and curriculum innovation has been successfully implemented in various academic settings from traditional to novel higher education models. It’s about integrating theory-heavy instruction with an engaged, hands-on learning and teaching journey — one that travels from atoms to applications, ensuring students are not just technically proficient but also innovative problem-solvers, ready to face the ever-changing world.
I’ve learned to own my space unapologetically. Being a minority in STEM often means walking into rooms where you’re the only one like you — but that’s exactly why your voice matters. STEM thrives on diversity of thought, and every woman in this field brings a perspective that can drive innovation and change. Every woman matters. You matter!
My advice? Believe in yourself, build a strong support system, and seek out mentors who uplift you. Don’t shrink yourself to fit into a predefined mold — expand the mold instead! Your presence is not just needed; it’s essential.
Most importantly, while you fight the good fight, be kind to yourself. Prioritize your well-being. You will make mistakes, and that’s okay. Acknowledge that the world wasn’t built by you or for you — but that doesn’t mean you don’t belong. Choose your battles wisely, stay focused on the bigger picture, and most of all, win the war! And never forget — pay back to those who broke barriers for you and pay it forward by paving the way for future generations. We rise by being grateful and by lifting others!
Universities like Oxford have a crucial role in building truly inclusive ecosystems for women in STEM. It’s not just about encouraging participation — it’s about actively dismantling barriers and creating spaces where women can thrive. Mentorship programs, strong support networks, and policy reforms are key.
Universities must address biases in hiring, promotions, and funding, ensuring women have equal access to leadership and research opportunities. Investing in initiatives that support underrepresented groups and amplifying visible representation at all levels will help shift the narrative.
It’s inspiring to see Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor and Registrar — incredible women — leading the way. At the Dept of Engineering Science, our professional service and many of its sub-units are led by smart women, all very inspiring. But we need more of us breaking barriers, stepping into leadership, and shaping the future of STEM. Real change happens when equity isn’t just a goal, but the norm, and men stand as strong allies in this quest for growth. Oxford, let’s keep marching forward!
Balance isn’t a fixed state — it’s a constant dance. Some days are tough, really tough. I’ve learned to embrace my flaws, give myself grace, and allow space to pause, disconnect, and recharge before stepping back into the fight.
What keeps me grounded is perspective — reminding myself not just why I do what I do and why I love it, but also how far I’ve come. I think back to the choices that were denied to me — how I didn’t have the freedom many my age took for granted, how I first stepped out alone in my mid-twenties, had my first sip of coffee alone in a restaurant at 27, or even carried an untracked phone only in my late twenties — all simply because of gender.
And yet, here I am — having carved my path, pushing boundaries, navigating barriers, and lifting others along the way. The comfort in knowing that this is a journey — one of growth, resilience, and impact — keeps me going.
Quality time with my partner, music, and surrounding myself with people who uplift me helps me reset and regain perspective. At the end of it all, it’s about knowing when to push forward and when to step back — so I can keep making an impact without losing myself in the process.
Growing up in a small town, I didn’t have living role models to look up to—but books became my gateway to a world of possibilities. The characters I met and the stories I immersed myself in shaped my perspective and gave me the courage to dream beyond my surroundings.
Later in life, mentorship became a game-changer, helping me navigate complex career paths and, most importantly, teaching me to own my journey. Now, I make it a priority to pass it on—mentoring young people, especially women in STEM, advocating for inclusive leadership, and amplifying voices through initiatives like BFWG, QEPrize, EPC, and more. Empowering others isn’t just a responsibility; it’s how we change the system for the better.
The future of engineering education lies at the intersection of pedagogy, policy, and practice. My next big focus is developing a systems approach to engineering education — one that leverages engineering thinking to create scalable, sustainable, and impactful higher education learning models.
By reimagining how we teach and learn engineering in the age of AI, I aim to build holistic engineering learning ecosystems — ensuring that the next generation of engineers is not just technically skilled but also equipped to solve real-world challenges with creativity, adaptability, and purpose.
Over the next 5–10 years, I want to push the boundaries of engineering education — making it more immersive, inclusive, and interdisciplinary, deeply integrated with research at Oxford and beyond. I aim to develop scalable learning models, ensuring that engineering education remains relevant, impactful, and future-focused.
On a broader scale, I want to continue driving innovations in higher education and clean energy while mentoring and empowering the next generation of STEM leaders. I hope to keep challenging the status quo, creating spaces for more voices to be heard, and making a lasting impact on engineering.
I envision a future where women in STEM are no longer the exception but an equal part of the norm. A future where our presence isn’t questioned, our capabilities aren’t doubted, and every room we walk into doesn’t feel like a battle for space, belonging, or acceptance.
To get there, we need systemic change — equal representation at all levels, pay equity, leadership opportunities, and, most importantly, a culture shift. The conversation must move beyond inclusion to true belonging — where women in STEM don’t just have a seat at the table or worse, bring their chairs, but are valued, heard, and empowered to lead.
Dare to dream boldly — and back it up with action. STEM needs your voice, your ideas, and your perspective. You belong here. Seek mentors, build your support system, and be relentless in your pursuit of knowledge.
Never be afraid to challenge the status quo. Don’t let anyone tell you can’t do something or make you feel small. Own your brilliance, embrace your uniqueness, and walk into every room with confidence. The world needs more women in STEM — not just to participate, but to lead.
Be the change you wish to see. This mantra has been my anchor, reminding me that adversity isn’t a roadblock — it’s a catalyst for change. Every challenge and every barrier has only reinforced my resolve to stay strong and to make STEM a more inclusive, empowering space for those who come after me.
So, keep marching. Own your journey. Your presence, your voice, and your contributions matter — more than you know, more than you can imagine, and more than the world is ready to admit. But that’s exactly why you must keep pushing forward, together with your tribe!
Note: All images used in this blog are published with the written consent of Dr. Nikita Hari. These images are the private property of Dr. Hari and may not be used, reproduced, printed, edited, or distributed in any form without her explicit written permission.
If you know of other inspiring women, please feel free to contact me at urmila@mandlabs.com.
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