Q: Where are you from?
A: I am from the Kashmir region of the Indian state Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). J&K is a state in northern India and is located mostly in the Himalayan Mountains. Kashmir is arguably one of the most beautiful places of India that experiences a captivating climate all throughout the year. It is one of the few states of the country whose climate can be distinctively categorized into the four main seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter. After the breathtaking spring season, Kashmir enjoys a pleasant summer when there is a slight rise in temperatures. Winter in the valley is characterized by extremely cold temperatures. The season sets in late November and a thick cover of white snow replaces the golden shade from autumn. Jammu & Kashmir lies at an altitude of 32.17o to 36.58o north. The Kashmir valley has an average height of 1,850 meters (6,070 ft) above sea level but the surrounding Pir Panjal range has an average elevation of 5,000 meters (16,000 ft). Jammu and Kashmir is home to several Himalayan glaciers. With an average altitude of 5,753 meters (18,875 ft) above sea-level, the Siachen Glacier is 76 km (47 mi) long making it the longest Himalayan glacier and second longest in the world.
Q: What are your research interests?
A: Having worked as an Assistant Professor for about 10 years, I am comfortable working with a wide range of data types and statistical models, including various types of regression models, multivariate statistics, and statistical genetics. I have assisted researchers with all phases of the research process, including experimental design, data collection techniques, data cleaning and verification, statistical analysis, testing model assumptions, graphing raw data and results, and interpretation of results. I have a good working Knowledge of SPSS and R.
Q: What are a few of your hobbies?
A: I like driving particularly in hilly terrain. I like listening to soft music and watching movies. Music particularly of Bollywood and Lollywood and whatever feels good to the ears.
Q: What university are you associated with?
A: I am an Assistant Professor at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir. It was established in 1982 and named after a Kashmiri Leader Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah popularly known as She-r-e-Kashmir, Sher means Lion “Lion of Kashmir”. The University offers Undergraduate and Post Graduate programs in Agriculture, Horticulture, Veterinary, Forestry, Fisheries, and Sericulture. The Department of Statistics is associated with Faculty of Horticulture and offers a Post-Graduate degree (MS) in Statistics.
Q: Who is your advisor?
A: Dr. Eric Vance, a new Associate Professor in the Applied Math department, is my advisor for my yearlong visit. He is very friendly and helpful. Since we both are new to this place so we try to explore this beautiful place together.
Q: What do you like about Boulder, Colorado?
A: Living in Boulder is certainly a unique experience. Boulder is a beautiful place with great access to nature. It has some really in-shape health-conscious people. The town is committed to preserving this natural beauty through extensive development restrictions (no buildings taller than a few stories, or build anything close to the Flatirons). There's a great scene for food and music, and you'll never get tired of having the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in your backyard! There is excellent hiking and biking trails, wonderful coffee shops and restaurants.