By Alistina Shrestha
Imagine a world where every young girl, no matter where she’s born, is encouraged to pursue science without limits. Imagine a world where women’s voices are not just heard but shape the future of medicine, technology, and innovation. This is not just a vision—it is a call to action echoed by UNESCO’s campaign “Imagine a World with More Women in Science,” launched on the 10-year anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Today, women still make up only one-third of the global scientific community, with less than 10% of researchers in some countries. But amidst these statistics, stories like Deepali Mishra’s shine as beacons of hope, resilience, and transformation.
Deepali Mishra always knew she was meant to make a difference—not just in medicine or technology, but at the intersection where the two converge. Raised in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India, her parents envisioned her future in healthcare, picturing her in a white coat with a stethoscope around her neck. But Deepali saw a different path. She didn’t just want to treat patients; she wanted to revolutionize the very systems that diagnose them.
Her passion led her to artificial intelligence, where she found her true calling: using innovative technology to assist medical professionals in diagnosing fractures. Today, Deepali is making significant strides in AI-driven fracture detection, focusing on the field of Medical Visual Question Answering (MedVQA) as she continues to develop her research. She is developing intelligent systems that analyze X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, allowing doctors to ask AI-powered questions about medical images—bridging the gap between artificial intelligence and clinical decision-making.
Deepali’s academic journey was anything but conventional. In a city where young girls are often asked, “How much do you want to study?” Deepali had only one answer: “As far as my dreams can take me.” Despite societal expectations, she excelled in her studies and became a guest lecturer at an institute in Prayagraj. But deep down, she knew her ambitions extended beyond the classroom walls. She craved the challenges and opportunities that come with global exposure and innovative research.
That opportunity arrived when she discovered the Dual Doctoral Degree Program at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand, and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, India. Pursuing a PhD in Data Science and AI was more than an academic choice; it was a declaration. A declaration that women belong on the frontlines of cutting-edge research. A declaration that passion knows no borders. Earning the prestigious AIT Scholarship was not just recognition of her brilliance—it was fuel for her mission to revolutionize AI-driven medical diagnostics.
She is deeply grateful to the School of Engineering and Technology (SET) at AIT for awarding her the AIT Scholarship, which has been instrumental in supporting her academic journey. The encouragement, resources, and environment provided by SET have empowered her to pursue her passion for AI-driven medical advancements. She extends her heartfelt appreciation to her professors, mentors, and peers for their support, guidance, and inspiration. Their belief in her potential has shaped her research and strengthened her resolve to contribute meaningfully to the field of medical AI and fracture detection.
One of the most transformative moments of Deepali’s journey was meeting her advisor, Dr. Chaklam Silpasuwanchai, Assistant Professor of Data Science and AI program. More than just a mentor, he became a catalyst for her growth, inspiring her to push boundaries she never thought possible. His words, “Let’s transform the world of fractures,” became her mantra—a mission that drives her every day.
Deepali is currently focused on advancing the frontiers of AI-driven medical imaging through her research in Medical Visual Question Answering (MedVQA). Her work aims to develop intelligent systems capable of interpreting complex medical images, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, with unprecedented accuracy and reliability. By harnessing the power of deep learning and natural language processing, Deepali’s research seeks to enable AI systems to detect fractures and respond to intricate clinical questions by medical professionals.
She is particularly interested in enhancing the explainability and reasoning of AI models, addressing one of the biggest challenges in the field of medical AI. Her research involves creating algorithms that can provide clear, interpretable insights into how diagnostic decisions are made, thereby building greater trust among clinicians. Additionally, Deepali is working on optimizing these AI models to function effectively with limited data, making them accessible and practical for use in resource-constrained healthcare environments.
Deepali’s research is more than just code and data; it’s about revolutionizing healthcare. Her work with MedVQA isn’t simply about detecting fractures – it’s about saving lives. By enabling AI to answer complex clinical questions in natural language, she is creating a future where:
- Diagnostic accuracy is enhanced, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis.
- Radiologists are supported, easing their overwhelming workload.
- Remote areas gain access to expert-level diagnostic tools.
- Faster clinical decisions lead to better patient outcomes.
Through her dedication and innovative research, Deepali is contributing to the advancement of AI in healthcare and paving the way for a more inclusive, efficient, and patient-centred future in medical diagnostics.
Her work aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, ensuring that AI-driven healthcare solutions reach even the most underserved communities.
Despite her demanding research schedule, Deepali remains passionate about teaching. As a teaching assistant under Dr. Chaklam, she has inspired students to explore the potential of AI and Data Science. For her, education isn’t just about imparting knowledge – it’s about igniting curiosity, fostering resilience, and empowering the next generation of innovators.
Through every triumph and every challenge, Deepali has lived by one guiding principle: “Be that live fish that has the potential to go against the current, not with the current.“ This mindset has propelled her forward, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes.
To every young girl standing at the crossroads of self-doubt and ambition, Deepali has one message:
“Be bold enough to break the glass ceiling of self-doubt and societal pressure. Live your dreams and rise like a phoenix. The journey may not always be easy – there will be challenges, self-doubt, and moments when you feel like an outsider. But trust me, every struggle will be worth it. Technology is not just for a select few; it is a powerful force waiting to be explored by those with passion and determination. Do not let fear, stereotypes, or societal expectations hold you back. Step forward with confidence, embrace the possibilities, and prove that women belong in every room where innovation happens.”
Deepali Mishra’s journey from the streets of Prayagraj to the global stage of AI research is not just a story—it’s a movement. A movement for young women in STEM. A movement for resilience against all odds. A movement to redefine what’s possible.
As she continues to push the boundaries of AI-driven fracture detection, she isn’t just shaping the future of healthcare—she’s inspiring an entire generation to believe that the path less travelled isn’t just worth it; it’s where true change begins.
Deepali’s story aligns with a larger, global narrative. According to UNESCO’s 2024 report, Changing the Equation: Securing STEM Futures for Women, women still make up only one-third of the global scientific community, with the percentage stagnating over the past decade. In some countries, less than 10% of researchers are women. Even more concerning, women hold just 22% of STEM jobs in G20 countries, and only one in ten leadership positions in STEM fields is occupied by a woman.
These statistics are more than numbers; they reflect missed opportunities for innovation, unaddressed biases, and a scientific community that does not fully represent the diversity of our world. For instance, artificial intelligence is less effective at recognizing women’s voices – a direct result of the lack of diverse inputs during its development.
UNESCO’s campaign, “Imagine a World with More Women in Science”, launched on 11 February 2025, calls on the global community to actively work towards a more gender-balanced scientific world. Using the hashtag #EveryVoiceInScience, it champions stories like Deepali’s, showcasing the power of diverse voices in shaping the future of science, technology, medicine, and AI.
Deepali Mishra is living proof that when women are allowed to lead, innovate, and inspire, they don’t just succeed—they change the world.
