Rashmi Gupta, PhD

What’s the work that you do?

For my PhD, I investigated glaciomarine sediments in Prydz Bay, East Antarctica, hoping to unveil the origin of these sediments through diverse methodologies like heavy mineral analysis, diamictite petrography, sedimentary geochemistry, and monazite and zircon geochronology. The aim was to learn more about the enigmatic subglacial geology of East Antarctica, a region veiled by extensive ice cover.

During my PhD, I had the remarkable opportunity to partake in the 41st (2021–22) and 42nd (2022–23) Indian Scientific Expeditions to Antarctica. In these expeditions, I conducted fieldwork along the Amery Ice Shelf in East Antarctica, collecting moraines, erratics, ice-rafted debris, from the mouth of glaciers and sediment samples from within ice sheets. These invaluable specimens hold the potential to significantly advance our understanding of the concealed subglacial geology of otherwise inaccessible terrains.

What keeps you going?

The allure of Antarctica lies in its raw and challenging environment, a place where every moment is a test of endurance and discovery. What keeps me going is the unquenchable curiosity to unveil the secrets hidden beneath the icy expanse. The thrill of facing extreme conditions and the privilege of contributing to understanding Earth’s history motivates me. The pristine landscapes, the adrenaline of fieldwork, and the prospect of uncovering geological mysteries are my driving forces. In Antarctica, I find purpose, passion, and the chance to make a tangible impact on our understanding of the planet’s past and its future.

What’s your message to the world?

Antarctica was a dream, a place I yearned to explore. When the chance came, words fell short to describe my elation. I want to convey: Don’t let being a woman hinder you. Chase your dreams, work relentlessly. My message: Embrace the unknown; gender should never be a barrier. Pursue passions fearlessly. My work matters as it unveils Earth’s secrets. Polar realms teach resilience, unity, and the magic of discovery. So, my message to the world: Embrace dreams, overcome odds, and let your spirit soar in the polar winds.