From Dental Examinations to Forensic Investigations: Dr. Sukalpa’s Unique Journey

Career Snapshot

Education:

• Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), Dr. RML Awadh University (2020)
• MSc. Forensic Odontology, National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar (2023)

First Job Post Career Switch:

• Forensic Business Manager at Virtual Autopsy Global Solutions

Current Role:

• Forensic Business Manager at Virtual Autopsy Global Solutions

Reason for switching:

• My fascination with Forensic Science, sparked by crime shows and reinforced during my BDS introduction to Forensic Odontology, led me to pursue an MSc. Despite its nascent stage in India, I chose to follow this passion rather than conventional career paths after completing my BDS.

Favorite Part About Corporates:

• The work-life balance in my current role, with weekends off and PTOs, is a refreshing change from clinical dentistry.
• I also enjoy networking with diverse healthcare professionals from various cultures and countries.

Dislikes about corporates:

• Working for a startup requires adaptability, as I may need to travel or take on different roles at short notice. While occasionally inconvenient, I appreciate how this dynamic environment enhances my versatility and keeps me on my toes.

From dental picks to crime scene sleuths, Dr. Sukalpa proves that the perfect career formula is part Sherlock and part dentist—remember to floss between solving mysteries!

Connect with Dr. Sukalpa Rathore on LinkedIn to explore more insights!

Introduction

The best way to predict your future is to create it. – Abraham Lincoln

This quote perfectly encapsulates the journey of Dr. Sukalpa, a dental graduate who followed her passion to carve out a unique niche in the world of forensic odontology.

Dr. Sukalpa’s journey began at Dr. RML Awadh University, where she completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 2020.

However, her fascination with forensic science, sparked by crime shows in her teenage years, led her down an unconventional path.

“During BDS, we had a brief introduction to Forensic Odontology, and since then, I wanted to learn more about the subject,” she recalls.

This interest culminated in her pursuing a Master’s in Forensic Odontology at the National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, which she completed in 2023.

Award-Winning Academic Excellence in Forensic Odontology

Her academic excellence shone through when her review paper on “Estimation of Postmortem Interval using Dental Tissues” was awarded the Third Prize at the 19th National Conference of the Indian Association of Forensic Odontology.

She also bagged the First prize in a University-wide essay writing competition during her post-graduation.

Career Transition: From Clinical Dentistry to Forensic Business Management

After a brief stint as a clinical dentist for about 1.5 years, Dr. Sukalpa transitioned into her current role as a Forensic Business Manager at Virtual Autopsy Global Solutions, a med-tech startup.

This role allows her to blend her dental expertise with her passion for forensics, contributing to groundbreaking innovations in the field.

Embracing Corporate Life and Work-Life Balance

When asked about her favorite aspects of corporate life, Dr. Sukalpa highlights the work-life balance. “I get a 2-day weekend plus PTOs, which I never experienced as a clinical dentist,” she says.

She also appreciates the opportunity to network with healthcare professionals from different cultures and countries.

However, working for a startup comes with its challenges. “I am required to be on my toes at all times, ready to travel for projects or take on different roles as needed,” she explains.

But she sees this as an opportunity for growth rather than a drawback.

Pursuing Passions Beyond Work

Outside of her 9-to-5, Dr. Sukalpa is a perpetual learner. She holds a diploma in French and taught herself to play the ukulele during the lockdown.

Her interests span from exploring music in different languages to reading and watching true crime documentaries.

Dr. Sukalpa’s journey to her current role is a testament to her patience and persistence. “I was frustrated because I had 2 degrees and no job. I felt lost and had no direction,” she recalls of her post-graduation days.

“All I had was patience, persistence, and a determination to have a job that I love and that values my potential.”

Conclusion

Her story serves as an inspiration to dental graduates considering non-traditional career paths.

It proves that with passion, dedication, and a willingness to explore, one can forge a unique and fulfilling career in unexpected corners of the healthcare industry.