Prof (Dr) Shweta Srivastava, Professor and Head, Department of ECE, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology.

You have over two decades of experience as an educator and researcher. What inspired you to pursue a career in academia and research, particularly in electronics and communication engineering?

My journey into academia and research, particularly in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), has been driven by a deep passion for on-going research, technology, innovation, and knowledge-sharing. From an early stage, I was fascinated by electrical circuits, electronic devices and the way waves around us are used for various applications. The means of communication is solely dependent on frequencies/wavelength of the signal through the communication channel. Working on these wavelengths you are able to visualise and understand the concepts behind it. In simple words ECE can be defined as ‘We can see what we do’. Electronics is something that involves working on hardware (like printed circuit boards, chips, electronic components, circuits) and simulating the same concepts in software. Everywhere we use such devices in our daily lives which makes our work easier. This interest and curiosity led me to work in the electronics and communication field. Research requires basic understanding of concepts, learning new knowledge, working on problem solving and developing innovations. My zeal to learn new things, analysing experimental results and doing qualitative research motivates me.

Academia, for me, has always been more than just teaching—it’s about mentoring, inspiring, and shaping the next generation of engineers. The ability to explore cutting-edge advancements, contribute to meaningful research, and bridge the gap between theory and real-world applications has been incredibly fulfilling. Moreover, the ever-evolving nature of ECE, with its intersection of AI, IoT, and VLSI, keeps me constantly learning and innovating. Being part of this dynamic field, while also motivating students and researchers to contribute to technological progress through workshops, hackathons, working on projects with industrial collaborations, updating the courses, introducing new courses based on-going industrial demand are some of the initiatives carried out for undergraduate, post graduate and Ph.D students to enhance proactive learning and practical knowledge. This has been my greatest motivation throughout my career. This integration of academia and research can shape a better future and benefit our society.

As the Dean of Academics and Research, how do you balance administrative responsibilities with your passion for teaching and research?

My role as Dean of Academics and Research, Head of Department (ECE) and an Educator/Researcher in Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida, is balanced by a combination of effective time management, prioritisation, planning, and a deep commitment to both leadership and learning.

1. I focus on setting clear goals for academic excellence and research innovation while ensuring that my leadership responsibilities support, rather than hinder, my engagement in teaching and research.

2. A strong team is essential. By delegating administrative tasks to capable faculty and staff, I can concentrate on mentorship, curriculum development, and research guidance.

3. I stay engaged with undergraduate students and postgraduate students in JIIT by taking their regular classes with labs. I supervise minor and major projects of undergraduate students by developing hardware models. The projects targeted are developed in-house from design, simulation, analysis, fabrication, measurement and up to final prototype. Each project is designed based on applications. This helps students to use their theoretical concepts and learn the key aspects of practical implementation. In research – despite administrative responsibilities, I make it a point to stay involved in research projects with Ph.D scholars, ensuring that I remain connected to the core of academia.

4. Fostering a Research-Oriented Environment – By driving initiatives that encourage research and innovation across the institution, I create a culture where both faculty and students actively contribute to cutting-edge developments, aligning with my own research interests.

5. Time to time meetings set up with faculty members on areas to work upon and key initiatives to encourage research and learning process through patents, publishing journals/conferences, project proposals, etc. Mentoring the faculties to update learning methods and motivate the students for skilled learning.

You have significantly contributed to the development of innovative laboratories, including a 5G use-case Lab and a VLSI Fab Lab. Could you share the challenges and impact of these initiatives on students and research?

I have established innovative laboratories in Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida, such as the 5G Use-Case Lab and VLSI Fab Lab, which was both a challenging and transformative initiative. These labs are designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation, empowering students and researchers to work on cutting-edge technologies.

Challenges Faced

1. Infrastructure & Funding – Setting up high-tech labs required significant investment in advanced equipment, software, and industry-grade facilities. Securing funding and industry collaborations was crucial.

2. Keeping Up with Rapid Advancements – With 5G and VLSI evolving rapidly, designing a curriculum and research framework that remains relevant was a constant challenge.

3. Industry Collaboration & Expertise – Building partnerships with tech companies, telecom providers, and semiconductor industries was essential to provide students with real-world exposure.

4. Training & Skill Development – Ensuring that faculty and students are well-trained to leverage these facilities effectively required continuous workshops, industry-led sessions, and hands-on training.

Impact on Students & Research

· Industry-Ready Skills – Students gain hands-on experience in 5G communication, IoT, chip design, and fabrication, making them highly sought after by industry leaders.

· Cutting-Edge Research & Innovation – These labs have enabled groundbreaking research in 5G applications, IoT, AI-driven semiconductor design, and smart communication networks.

· Entrepreneurship & Startups – With access to state-of-the-art tools, students and researchers have successfully launched startups and patents in telecom and semiconductor fields.

· Global Collaboration – These labs have facilitated collaborations with top universities, research centers, and industry leaders, expanding opportunities for faculty and students alike.

These state-of-the-art labs have transformed the learning and research landscape. The students at the forefront of these technological advancements foster a strong academia-industry ecosystem where students are well skilled.

Your research on frequency-agile antennas and other cutting-edge technologies has gained recognition. Could you elaborate on the practical applications of your work in the industry?

My research on frequency-agile, beamforming, MIMO, MIMO arrays, reconfigurable antennas, couplers, switching, and SIW cavity-backed antennas has significant real-world applications across multiple high-tech industries, particularly in wireless communication, defense, aerospace, and IoT. These technologies are crucial in advancing next-generation communication systems, improving connectivity, and enabling more efficient and adaptive networks.

Key Practical Applications in the Industry:

a. 5G & 6G Wireless Networks

· Beamforming and MIMO arrays enhance network capacity, coverage, and speed by directing signals precisely, reducing interference, and increasing spectral efficiency.

· Frequency-agile and reconfigurable antennas allow dynamic frequency selection, crucial for adaptive 5G and upcoming 6G networks.

b. Aerospace & Defense Communication

· SIW cavity-backed antennas provide high-gain, compact, and lightweight solutions for satellite and aircraft communication.

· Beamforming and phased arrays enhance radar and surveillance systems, offering better target detection and secure communication for defense applications.

c. Internet of Things (IoT) & Smart Devices

· Miniaturised, reconfigurable antennas support low-power, multi-band communication in smart cities, healthcare monitoring, and industrial IoT applications.

· MIMO and switching technologies improve wireless sensor networks, edge computing, and AI-driven connectivity.

d. Autonomous Vehicles & V2X Communication

· MIMO arrays and beamforming antennas ensure reliable vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication, improving autonomous vehicle navigation and safety.

e. Satellite & Space Communication

· High-efficiency, frequency-agile antennas optimise signal transmission in LEO (Low Earth Orbit) and GEO (Geostationary Orbit) satellites, ensuring robust global connectivity.

· Reconfigurable couplers and switching techniques enhance satellite payload adaptability, enabling multi-mission capabilities.

By integrating these technologies, my research contributes to faster, smarter, and more resilient communication systems, ultimately shaping the future of connectivity, automation, and intelligence-driven networks across industries.

You’ve introduced multiple B.Tech and M.Tech programs at JIIT. How have these courses helped bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements?

Introducing B.Tech and M.Tech programs in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) at Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida was driven by the need to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands. These programs were designed to equip students with both strong theoretical foundations and hands-on experience, ensuring they are industry-ready upon graduation.

Here’s how these courses have helped:

1. Industry-Aligned Curriculum – The courses integrate emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, VLSI, embedded systems, and wireless communication, ensuring students learn skills that are highly relevant to today’s industry needs.

2. Practical and Research-Based Learning – With state-of-the-art labs, real-world projects, and industry internships, students gain hands-on experience, making them adaptable to industry challenges.

3. Collaboration with Industry and Research Institutions – Partnerships with leading tech firms and R&D centers have facilitated guest lectures, live projects, and mentorship opportunities, allowing students to interact with industry experts.

4. Skill Development & Innovation – The programs emphasize problem-solving, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary learning, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students.

By aligning education with industry trends, these programs have produced graduates who are not just job seekers but also innovators, researchers, and leaders in ECE, ready to contribute to the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

As someone who has mentored 13 Ph.D scholars and numerous students, what has been the most fulfilling aspect of being a guide and mentor?

The most fulfilling aspect of being a guide and mentor to 13 Ph.D scholars and numerous students has been witnessing their growth, achievements, and impact in the field of engineering and technology. Seeing my mentees evolve from curious learners into confident researchers, innovators, and industry leaders is incredibly rewarding. Mentorship is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing critical thinking, fostering innovation, and instilling confidence. Guiding students through challenges, helping them discover their potential, and celebrating their successes—whether it’s publishing groundbreaking research, securing prestigious positions, or making meaningful contributions to technology—brings immense satisfaction. 

Beyond academic and professional success, mentoring allows me to pay it forward, shaping the next generation of engineers and technologists. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey, knowing that their work will continue to drive progress in STEM for years to come.

Having received prestigious awards like the IETE Lal C Verman Award and the Ranjana Pal Memorial Award, how have these recognitions shaped your career and motivated you further?

Receiving prestigious awards like the IETE Lal C Verman Award and the Ranjana Pal Memorial Award has been both an honour and a catalyst for my career. These recognitions have validated my contributions to engineering and technology, reinforcing my commitment to innovation, research, and leadership in the field. Beyond personal achievement, these awards have provided a platform to inspire others, especially young women in STEM, to pursue their ambitions fearlessly. They have opened doors to new opportunities—whether through collaborations, speaking engagements, or leadership roles—allowing me to contribute more significantly to the industry. Most importantly, such accolades serve as a reminder that hard work, perseverance, and passion for technology can drive real impact. They motivate me to continue pushing boundaries, mentoring future talent, and advocating for greater inclusivity in engineering and automation.

I have also been nominated by my Institute for the Senior Executive Leadership Program by Harvard Business School which will surely help in further improving my leadership skills.

What is your vision for the role of women in engineering and technology, and how do you believe initiatives like Women in Tech Awards contribute to this vision?

My vision for the role of women in engineering and technology is one of equal representation, leadership, and impact—where women are not only present but also driving innovation, shaping policies, and mentoring the next generation. I envision a future where gender diversity is the norm, and women have unhindered access to opportunities, resources, and recognition in STEM fields. Initiatives like the Women in Tech Awards play a vital role in making this vision a reality. They celebrate the achievements of women, providing much-needed visibility and validation for their contributions. These initiatives inspire future talent, challenge industry biases, and create networks of support and mentorship. By recognising excellence, they help shift perceptions and encourage organisations to foster more inclusive workplaces, ultimately driving progress in engineering and technology.

What is your opinion on the role of Industrial Automation magazine in showcasing industry trends and empowering women in technology and automation?

Industrial Automation magazine plays a crucial role in shaping industry conversations, particularly in highlighting emerging trends and innovations in automation. By providing expert insights, case studies, and thought leadership, the magazine helps professionals stay ahead of technological advancements. When it comes to empowering women in technology and automation, the magazine can serve as a powerful platform for visibility and recognition. Featuring women leaders, engineers, and innovators not only inspires the next generation but also challenges industry stereotypes. By promoting inclusivity and celebrating diverse perspectives, it fosters a more balanced and forward-thinking automation sector. Overall, its impact lies in bridging knowledge gaps, driving discussions on the future of automation, and amplifying the voices of women making a difference in the field.

What are the three words that best describe how it feels to be a finalist in the Women in Tech 2025 competition?

Exciting, Empowering, Inspiring!

Prof Shweta Srivastava is a FIETE, SMIEEE, Dean (Academics and Research), Professor and Head of Department (Electronics and Communication Engineering) at Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Noida. She received her Ph.D degree from Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India in 2002. Since then she is engaged in research and development in the field of microstrip, active and smart antennas, millimeter wave antennas, reconfigurable antennas, beam-forming antennas, on chip antennas, microwave integrated circuits, active/passive substrate integrated waveguide, etc. She has published more than 100 International and National publications including IEEE transactions. She has published book chapters and filed patents. She has 13 Ph.Ds awarded under her guidance and 3 are ongoing. She is a reviewer of several reputed national and international journals like IEEE transactions, IEEE Wireless Propagation Letters, Wireless Personal Communication, etc. She was awarded prestigious IETE – Lal C Verman Award 2023 in recognition for outstanding contribution in the field of standardisation, quality control and precision measurements during the last 10 (ten) years, the IETE Smt Ranjana Pal Memorial Award in recognition for significant contribution in the field of RF and Microwaves in September 2016 and ‘Outstanding Women in Engineering’ by Centre for Advanced Research, Venus Foundation, March 2018. She is a senior member of IEEE and a fellow of IETE and so on. Presently she is pursuing the Senior Executive Leadership Program.