The Academic Odyssey of Prof. Swarun Kumar
Prof. Swarun Kumar’s journey from the bustling corridors of IIT Madras to the revered halls of Carnegie Mellon University is a story of intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and heartfelt nostalgia. A 2010 B.Tech graduate in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Madras and a proud resident of Alakananda hostel, Prof. Swarun now serves as a professor at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), where he explores the cutting edge of wireless networking, mobile computing, and robotics.
A Tale of Two Universities: From IIT Madras to CMU
For Prof. Swarun, the journey from Chennai to Pittsburgh followed a remarkably linear path. After completing his undergraduate degree, his growing interest in research led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science at MIT. Initially intrigued by theoretical computer science and network security, he soon found himself drawn into the dynamic world of wireless networking. His doctoral work opened new avenues—literally and figuratively—in wireless and cellular technologies.
“I started exploring this world of WiFi, cellular networks and the like,” he shares. “And from there, I directly moved into academia, finding a faculty position at Carnegie Mellon.”
At CMU, Prof. Swarun’s work bridges the Electrical and Computer Engineering and Computer Science departments. He’s been part of the university for nearly a decade and continues to push boundaries in next-generation wireless systems, even dabbling in robotics.
The IIT Madras Legacy
Prof. Swarun is quick to credit his alma mater for shaping both his academic and professional trajectory. “I think I’m privileged to be part of the IIT Madras legacy,” he reflects. “There’s a deep reservoir of alumni who’ve gone on to become successful professors, entrepreneurs, and leaders across the globe.”
According to him, the IIT Madras brand name carries weight in academic and professional circles worldwide—not just for its entrance rigor but also for the quality of its faculty and alumni network. “The letters of recommendation from IIT professors are recognized and respected, because they’ve consistently produced brilliant students,” he adds. “And when you walk into a room for an interview with ‘IIT Madras’ on your resume, it opens doors.”
Of Mess Battles and Coconut Bags
While academic accolades define one aspect of Prof. Swarun’s life, his memories of IIT Madras are painted with much lighter strokes—ones involving mess food, hostel lingo, and a few unforgettable pranks.
“IIT is like a second home,” he says, laughing. “You get a new name—your nickname—learn a new language—the IITM lingo—and, of course, adjust to a new cuisine—the hostel mess food!”
One story stands out. Back in the day, there was an online scramble to book preferred mess slots. Prof. Swarun, combining hunger with ingenuity, wrote a small piece of code to consistently snag his favorite: Kaveri mess, known for its spicy South Indian fare.
Another cherished memory involves his mentor, Professor Pandu Rangan. Prof. Swarun recalls being invited with fellow students to assist at a family function. “Our job was to pack coconuts into bags,” he chuckles. “Afterward, he handed us his credit card to get some food—not knowing that a group of hungry students could rack up quite the bill. He just smiled through it. That generosity, that closeness—it’s something I deeply value.”
According to Prof. Swarun, such moments underscore the unique culture at IIT Madras. “The hierarchy that exists in other institutions is blurred here. Professors treat you like family.”
On the Joys of Academia
As someone deeply embedded in academic research, Prof. Swarun encourages students and young alumni to consider academia not just as a career, but as a calling. “You’re constantly surrounded by fresh minds and fresh ideas. You’re at the bleeding edge of innovation,” he says.
From 4G to 5G and now 6G, his field—wireless networking—is constantly evolving. “The beautiful thing about research is that it’s completely new. You are the world expert in your topic because no one has done what you’ve done before.”
And for those inspired by the potential of AI, robotics, or future internet technologies, Prof. Swarun believes now is the most exciting time to be in the academic space.
Giving Back to the Alma Mater
To younger alumni wondering how to stay connected, Prof. Swarun offers simple but profound advice: show up.
“Just visit. Come back, walk the campus, meet your professors. Talk to the students. Let them see that people like you, who once lived in those hostels and stood in those same mess queues, are now changing the world.”
He believes that the presence of alumni alone can be a source of great inspiration for current students. “They see you, and they think—maybe I can get there too.”
Whether through mentoring, collaboration, or just dropping by for a chat, Prof. Swarun feels the biggest gift an alumnus can offer is contact. “You’ve been inspired by someone once. Now, it’s your turn to be that person for someone else.”
In the end, Prof. Swarun Kumar’s story is more than just an academic timeline—it’s a testimony to the nurturing spirit of IIT Madras, the bonds of community it fosters, and the infinite potential that unfolds when curiosity meets opportunity.
