CSIR NET Life Science Topper (AIR 60): Bilal Ahmed Shares His Preparation Strategy & Success Story

Bilal Ahmed, CSIR NET Life Science Topper (AIR 60), shares his success story & preparation strategy with Shiksha. Bilal has cleared the CSIR NET Life Science exam twice in 2020 (AIR 60) & 2022 (AIR 65). Candidates can read the CSIR NET Topper Interview in this article below.

CSIR NET Life Science Topper (AIR 60), Bilal Ahmed

Meet Bilal Ahmed, a shining example of dedication and excellence in the field of Life Sciences. Having conquered the CSIR NET Life Science exam not once, but twice in the years 2020 and 2022 with impressive All India Ranks of 60 and 65 respectively, Bilal's journey is one that inspires and motivates aspirants. His remarkable achievements extend beyond CSIR NET, as he has also achieved success in GATE LS twice (2020 & 2023) and secured the prestigious ICMR JRF LS 2020 qualification.
Bilal's journey didn't stop at clearing the exams, rather, it marked the beginning of his impactful contributions to the scientific community. After his triumphant performances in the competitive examinations, he embarked on a career path that saw him taking on the role of a Project Junior Research Fellow at AIIMS, where he undoubtedly brought his passion for life sciences to life through his work. Furthermore, Bilal's dedication to advancing scientific knowledge led him to serve as a Junior Scientist in a private laboratory, where he continued to make meaningful contributions to research and innovation.
Through his accomplishments, Bilal Ahmed showcases the power of persistence, knowledge, and unwavering determination. His story serves as an inspiration to all those who aspire to excel in the field of Life Sciences and beyond. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Bilal's experiences, insights, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of a true CSIR NET topper and learn from his invaluable experiences in the world of scientific exploration.

Also Read: CSIR NET 2023 exam

CSIR NET Topper Interview with Bilal Ahmed

Q: Tell us something about your background?

A: My name is BILAL AHMED, I am 26 years old and I live in Delhi. I have completed my master's degree in Bio-Chemistry from Jamia Millia Islamia.

Q: What was your overall and section-wise marks/score in CSIR NET exam? Which year did you qualify for the exam and where you are currently working?

A: I have qualified CSIR-NET LS twice (2022 & 2020), in 2022 my overall percentile was 98.09 with AIR 65 and in 2020 my overall percentile was 97.59 with AIR 60. I am currently not working but I did work at AIIMS as a project JRF and as a Junior Scientist at a Private Lab after my MSc.

Q: Why you’ve chosen this exam? Which other exams did you appear in and which you have been able to crack?

A: To pursue PhD in India is a difficult task, CSIR-NET JRF allows you to get a fellowship during your PhD duration. Also in many prestigious institutes, you can't even fill out their PhD form if you don't have a JRF qualification. Except for CSIR-NET LS, I have also qualified GATE LS twice (2020 & 2023), and ICMR JRF LS 2020.

Q: How much time did you prepare for the CSIR NET exam? Did you crack it on the first attempt?

A: I prepared for approx 2-3 months only, it all depends on how much your basics are clear. I cleared the CSIR NET Life Science exam on my third attempt.

Q: Tell us about the challenges you faced while preparing for the exam.

A: The CSIR-NET Life Science syllabus is extremely vast and it covers many life sciences subjects so it takes too much time to cover the whole syllabus. Sometimes, I got frustrated and depressed by continuously reading the topics. Keeping your mental health good and motivating yourself regularly are important aspects while preparing for the CSIR-NET exam.

Q: Did you take any coaching for the exam? If yes, from where and for how long? If not, how you managed to do self-study?

A: No, I did not take any coaching for the exam, first I collected the previous year's question papers and specific books for the particular unit from various sources online. Then I analysed the question paper pattern like what type of questions are being asked according to this I study that topic briefly. Online lectures from a few YouTubers helped me a lot in my preparation. I used to solve a question paper every once in a while to improve my speed and avoid negative marking.

Q: How to prepare for CSIR NET exam? Tell us the strategy you applied to prepare for the exam.

A: First understand the exam pattern, there are 3 sections in the life sciences exam, so see in which section you are strong and attempt the paper accordingly. Avoid negative markings, take guesses but only calculate ones and not too many. If your basics are clear you can complete the syllabus in 2-3 months if not then it might take 6 months to complete the syllabus. Try to have the hardcopy version of the books instead of the PDF format. Try to revise the topics on a weekly basis. See previous year's question papers to understand the type of questions that are being asked it can help you how much in-depth you need to learn the topics. Maintain a schedule of study and follow it sincerely. There are 13 units in life sciences subject for the CSIR-NET exam it's not compulsory to learn all 13 units you can choose topics according to your strengths and convenience but at least cover 9-10 units out of 13.

And most importantly take at least one day off from your studies every week it will keep your mind fresh.

Q: Is coaching important to crack the exam?

A: It's not mandatory to have coaching, especially for the CSIR-NET exam many students qualify for the exam without coaching but it can add a few advantages like it can help you maintain a disciplined study plan, and doubt-clearing classes are plus. Also if your basics are not clear you can opt for coaching.

Q: What is the ideal time for starting the preparation?

A: As the CSIR-NET exam is conducted twice a year (June & Dec) so it's better to start at least 4 months before the next exam.

Q: How much time did you spend regularly on preparation?

A: I maintained a regular study schedule during my CSIR NET exam preparation. The amount of time I spent studying varied based on the availability of my schedule and the complexity of the topics I was covering. On average, I dedicated approximately 3-4 hours per day to focused study sessions.

I believe in quality over quantity, so I focused on making my study time productive and efficient. Instead of merely counting the number of hours, I prioritized deep comprehension of the subject matter and regular practice. This approach helped me grasp the concepts effectively and develop problem-solving skills.

Q: What should be the section-wise preparation strategy?

A: Section A is aptitude maximum you can score 30, In section B and in section C you can score a maximum of 70 and 100 respectively. If your aptitude portion is weak still with some practice you can easily score 8-10 marks in section A.

Section C contains questions to check your research mindset mostly they are not direct questions but if your concepts are clear you can answer them.

Section B consists of some direct questions, statement-based questions or conceptual ones.

Q: Can you refer to some good books for CSIR NET preparation?

A: For life sciences subject

• Unit 1 - Lehninger, Voet & Voet
• Unit 2- The Cell a Molecular Approach by Geoffrey M Cooper
• Unit 3- Molecular Biology of the Gene by James D Watson
• Unit 7- Guyton and Hall

For the rest of the units you can refer pathfinder life sciences book, they are good too.

Q: What according to you were the easiest and toughest sections?

A: I feel section C is comparatively easy as it provides you with the opportunity to score 100 marks and if you understand the questions well you can score in these sections easily

Section B is tough according to me as earlier this section consists of direct memory-based questions only, but since 2019 section B also contains statement-based questions and conceptual ones that consume too much time.

Q: How you tackled your strong and weak areas?

A: I just focused on my strengths and try to make less mistakes in that section. And in the case of weak areas, you can only practice as much as you can.

Q: Did you take any mock tests? How do mock tests help to improve your performance in the exam?

A: No, I just solved the previous year's question papers for CSIR NET exam. Mock Tests are basically for your practice, it can help you understand the type of questions being asked and what should be your approach to attempt the questions.

Q: After clearing the CSIR NET exam, how can anyone find a job?

A: You can apply for PhD positions at many colleges in India after clearing the exam. You can apply for project JRF posts at many institutions including AIIMS, THSTI, RCB etc. If you have only LS (Lectureship) then you can apply for assistant professor or lectureship jobs in both government and private universities.

Q: What factors do you attribute to success?

A: I believe that diligent and consistent preparation was a crucial factor in my success. A strong foundation in the relevant subjects was essential. Regular practice and taking mock tests were necessary for success. I embraced a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability throughout my preparation. The support and encouragement from my family, friends, mentors and teachers were invaluable.

Q: Any message or advice to the future CSIR NET aspirants?

A: It's gonna be a difficult journey, so keep believing in yourself you can qualify for the CSIR-NET exam, follow your study plan with full dedication, take time off from study every week for one-day at least, learn every topic thoroughly, keep practising previous year question papers, understand that you don't have to attempt every question in the exam only attempt them if you are sure of it. Negative marking should be avoided. And all the best for your future.

Read More:

CSIR NET Preparation Tips

CSIR NET Exam Analysis