This Biotechnology Major Marches to the Beat of the Scarlet Knights
When not studying biotechnology and data science, sophomore Mukhilan Saravanakumar performs with the university’s marching band, which is bound for London
Mukhilan Saravanakumar found a way to mix two passions – music and science – into a harmonious college experience at Rutgers University-New Brunswick.
The sophomore, a member of the honors program at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, is pursuing a major in biotechnology and a double minor in data science and music. Saravanakumar, who plays the clarinet as a member of the Rutgers University Marching Scarlet Knights, said he was drawn to science as a child.
“I was really into biology, in particular, of the sciences that were offered in high school,” said Saravanakumar, a resident of the Belle Mead community within Montgomery Township, N.J. “I feel that biology is really impactful for the world in what you can achieve with it, especially with its versatility.”
The 19-year-old said he chose to focus on the expanding field of biotechnology as it “allows me to work with the genetic material of cells and help strengthen traits that will help them fight against adversities. I wanted to be a part of that.”
He is studying data science to “process and analyze data that’s collected efficiently,” crucial skills for a research scientist.
Although Saravanakumar noted he has perfect pitch – the ability to identify or produce a musical note correctly upon hearing it – he said he ultimately knew that he wouldn’t pursue music as a career, “but I wanted to keep it close to me.”
Paul Meers, director of the undergraduate biotechnology program at Rutgers and Saravanakumar’s academic adviser, called the student smart, ambitious and interesting.
“Music goes with science,” said Meers, who added there are studies about mathematical abilities and musical abilities. “Though I am not an expert, I do believe there have been studies showing connections between the cognitive processes used in music and mathematical and computational applications which are an important part of biotechnology.”
Saravanakumar said he joined the Scarlet Knights Marching Band during his freshman year to make friends and pursue his music minor.
“I can stay involved with the music community here at Rutgers and also learn about opportunities that allows me to engage in music on campus,” said Saravanakumar, who plays piano “on the side” and sings.
I feel that biology is really impactful for the world in what you can achieve with it, especially with its versatility.
Mukhilan Saravanakumar
Rutgers University-New Brunswick sophomore
Last year, during his course “Ethical and Scientific Challenges in Biotechnology,” Meers said Saravanakumar and other students took part in a group presentation on bioremediation – the use of organisms such as microbes to remove pollutants from environments, including soil and water. The group covered different ways of using the process and possible controversies stemming from bioremediation.
“They did a very nice job,” Meers said. “Pretty impressive.”
Born in India, Saravanakumar and his family moved to the United States in 2013. He enjoys cooking – devising ways to spruce up cups of ramen, a dorm staple – and playing video games of all different genres. Lately he is playing “Overwatch,” “Cyberpunk 2077” and “Outer Wilds.”
As a Marching Scarlet Knight, Saravanakumar performs during home football games and other sports events at Rutgers-New Brunswick. He and other members of the band marched during the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.
Next up for the Scarlet Knights is an opportunity on the global stage. For the first time since 1989, members of the band will be traveling internationally to take part in London Band Week in late June. The Scarlet Knights will represent the U.S. during the weeklong experience that will feature band performances and sightseeing.
Saravanakumar said he is excited about the trip to the United Kingdom “because it allows you to connect with musicians from all around the globe and it serves as a cultural exchange where we can all learn more from each other.”
In addition to his marching duties, Saravanakumar is a member of the Cook campus chapter of Alpha Zeta, a professional fraternity for students and industry professionals in the agricultural and natural resources fields; Designer Genes, a Rutgers biotechnology club; and RU Karaoke. (Saravanakumar’s karaoke repertoire includes “Mr. Brightside” by the Killers and Britney Spears staple “Baby One More Time.”)
After earning his bachelor’s degree, Saravanakumar said he plans to pursue a master’s or doctorate degree in biotechnology. His long-term goal is to work at a distinguished research institution or work abroad “in a country with a really successful biotechnology industry such as Germany or Switzerland.”
Saravanakumar said he just wants to help the world.
“That's really because there are a lot of things going on environmentally and it would be nice to at least be able to deal with issues that are plaguing the world right now and help alleviate some of those problems,” he said.
“One issue that is prominent and comes to mind is working on cancer research,” Saravanakumar said. “It is very important topic as I have had a couple family members deal with cancer and I'd like to help minimize the health risks that come with this disease. Another issue is dealing with invasive species that destroy plant or animal populations. I'd like to help these organisms fight back against these threats and survive in the wild.”
What drew him to his wind instrument of choice?
“This is kind of a silly reason, but I used to be obsessed with the cartoon ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ as a kid and I wanted to be like Squidward,” Saravanakumar said, referring to the animated octopus who plays the clarinet. “That was my fourth-grade reason. Then, actually playing it for a couple of years, I was like, ‘This instrument's actually really cool and it's pretty versatile in range for what it offers.’ I also liked the sound of it and had fun running scales on it.”
