In this conversation, Vid Nukala, Senior Community Engagement Officer and Head - Government Relations, Global Activities at EMBO, Heidelberg, discusses the interplay between science and policy, the key actors and issues in science policy, and how researchers can get involved in science policy.

Smita Jain, Executive Director of IndiaBioscience, speaks about the current research scenario in India and some of the most pressing challenges Indian researchers face today. She also throws in some unique but very useful career navigation advice for researchers, while revealing why she chose a career outside academia. This interview was first published on Editage Insights.

Sunita Sheel is an independent researcher based in Pune. Her work explores the realms of ethics in biological research. She is also interested in public health.

Meena Venkataraman is a wildlife biologist based in Mumbai. Her research focuses on developing strategies for conservation and management of Asiatic Lions.

Janmejaya Samal is a part-time independent researcher based in Chhattisgarh. His research examines the penetration and effectiveness of Government of India's TB control measures in Chhattisgarh.