The Precog Journey

I had an inclination towards research ever since I joined IIIT-D. I admired my Seniors who got admits from the Best CS Universities of the world, which felt like the next milestone to achieve. Looking at the profiles of several of them, I realised that there was an eminent underlying force behind, that was PK! I was awestruck by the posts that PK used to do about the achievements of his students on Social Media.

I had done research in the Security domain during my first 2 years and Security in Social Media looked like a fascinating field to explore. I joined the DHCS course in the beginning of 2016, that’s when I got to interact with PK. His way of teaching is unique, and he instills an aura of enthusiasm and interest as he delivers lectures.  From him I got a new perspective to look and analyse the everyday interfaces.

I decided to apply for an Internship with Precog for the Summer of 2016. The interview was grilling and I kept my fingers crossed till the result was announced. After receiving acceptance from Precog I also received an Internship Offer from IBM Research Labs. I was faced with a dilemma, both being Great Research opportunities. I talked to PK and he offered me a part time internship with Precog.

I was excited to start working with the group. Anupama introduced me to the problem statement we were going to be working on, “Privacy Leaks through Browser Extensions”. I was thrilled to know that we were going to have a collaboration with Bimal Viswanath from Bell Labs. I had read his research papers before and was intrigued by his findings. Working with Precog feels like, you have been blessed with a network of the Top researchers across the globe with whom you can discuss, learn and work.

I moved to Bangalore to join IBM Research and worked remotely. I used to stay in office till late night reading Papers, and also Precoged during the weekends. PK used to be in constant touch as my guide and a mentor. Precog felt like a family and working on the Research Project was fun. Whenever I was stuck anywhere I was offered full support, I could message anytime and Anupama was lightning fast with her replies. I learnt the Skills of collaboration, time management and most importantly smart-working rather than hard-working.

Coming back from Bangalore I was in full swing to join the group with vigour. PK always has suggestions to improve efficiency and quality, his visions and ideas can be clearly seen imbibed in the group. Attending regular meetings, ‘whatsup’ and BM sessions, I have learned far too many things to be enumerated. Earlier I was intimidated by the rapid progress of the group, now I take pride with every new accomplishment of every member. Since every other day there is a new achievement being discussed in the group’s mailing list. Association with Precog has been a Roller-Coaster ride, where we have worked as team and partied as friends. I have been really lucky to be associated with the Coolest Research Group of IIIT-Delhi.

Below is the picture taken on Jan 4, 2016, Precog’s birthday!