Gokul Rajan

Profile

I am a postdoctoral scientist at the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown in Lisbon. I carried out my PhD in Neuroscience at Institut Curie and Sorbonne University in Paris where I investigated the neuronal mechanisms underlying the differences in the navigational strategy between two related vertebrate species. This was motivated by a broader question: how do evolutionary innovations in brain function arise -- and how can they be experimentally dissected using accessible vertebrate models? Before this, I earned a Master's in Biotechnology from IIT Bombay and worked on various other projects involving microbiology, genetic engineering, bioinformatics and neurophysiology. Some of my research works can be found here on my Google Scholar profile

My current research interests are in the neuronal and molecular mechanisms of learning, memory and aging -- using Danionella cerebrum and other small vertebrates. D. cerebrum is a miniature, transparent fish without a skull roof that I’ve contributed to pioneering as a model for systems neuroscience. It offers unprecedented optical access to the adult vertebrate brain. Inspired by its potential and its origins, I started the Danionella Prize — a small personal initiative to support creative, curiosity-driven science in the regions where this fish is originally found. What makes the prize different is its selection philosophy: it doesn’t reward prestige or pedigree, but rather bold questions, thoughtful reasoning, and the smart use of modest tools — how much new insight is generated per research dollar spent?

Beyond the lab, I care about building public trust in science and reforming how science is practiced -- from open-source tools and publishing reform to faster, more flexible funding. My goal is for science to be not only understood by the public, but also pursued in ways that maximize creativity, accessibility, and societal value.

Expertise

My expertise ranges from genetic engineering to building custom imaging systems to data analytics. As part of my work, I have created transgenic animals (yes, the scintillating brain activity in the background is recorded from one such animal!), built automated high-speed image acquisition systems, developed behavioral assays, used state-of-the-art 2-photon and 1-photon scanning and light-sheet microscopes, created custom widefield imaging tools and custom pipelines to analyse big datasets.

I care about public understanding of science. I have authored many popular science articles in magazines and newspaper. A non-fiction book has been in the works for a few years now. Soon(tm).

Hobbies

I’m passionate about exploring the world — whether it’s trekking through nature, immersing myself in vibrant cultures, or delving into the stories of historical landmarks. My curiosity extends to literature and cinema, with a particular fondness for thrillers and thought-provoking non-fiction. Stand-up comedy, especially sharp observational humor, is another source of joy for me. I also enjoy learning and tinkering, and have built a few useful digital tools.

History is a friend — I love delving into everything from ancient civilizations to modern events. Reflecting on the past that has shaped our present world is an enriching experience to me. Occasionally, you can even catch me leading a unique science history walk through the Latin Quarter in Paris, where I share my passion for the stories behind our scientific milestones.

Contact

You can reach out to me here: gokulrajan[at]outlook[dot]com

• Twitter
• Linkedin
• Github

You can request a short 30-minute meeting with me using the button below. I’ve tried to make available a time slot that’s globally inclusive — sorry if it’s too early or too late in your zone; send me a message if so!

Elements

i = 0;

while (!deck.isInOrder()) {
    print 'Iteration ' + i;
    deck.shuffle();
    i++;
}

print 'It took ' + i + ' iterations to sort the deck.';