About Us
Learn more about our mission to connect underrepresented students with research mentors.
Who We Are
Practicum Labs is a platform dedicated to bridging the gap between underrepresented students and research opportunities. We believe that diversity in research leads to better outcomes and more innovative solutions to complex problems.
Our team consists of passionate educators, researchers, and advocates who are committed to creating a more inclusive academic environment. With backgrounds spanning multiple disciplines and institutions, we bring a wealth of experience to our mission.
Founded in 2018, Practicum Labs has grown from a small pilot program at a single university to a nationwide initiative serving thousands of students across multiple institutions.
Our Expertise
- • Research methodology training
- • Academic mentorship
- • Career development
- • Research lab connections
Our Community
- • Coming soon...
Our Values
These core principles guide everything we do at Practicum Labs.
Inclusivity
We believe that everyone deserves access to research opportunities, regardless of their background or circumstances. We actively work to remove barriers and create pathways for all students.
Diversity
We celebrate and promote diversity in all its forms. Different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds lead to more innovative research and better outcomes for everyone.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in everything we do. From our mentorship programs to our platform, we maintain high standards and continuously seek to improve our services.
Impact
We're committed to making a measurable difference in the lives of students and in the broader research community. We track outcomes and continuously assess our impact.
Education
We believe in the transformative power of education and research. We're dedicated to helping students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
Integrity
We operate with honesty, transparency, and ethical principles. We're accountable to our students, mentors, and partner institutions.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue research opportunities by providing them with the mentorship, resources, and community they need to succeed.
We aim to create a more diverse and inclusive research community by breaking down barriers to entry and fostering connections between students and mentors.
Through our programs, we hope to inspire the next generation of researchers and contribute to a more equitable academic landscape.
Inclusivity
Creating opportunities for all students
Education
Developing research skills and knowledge
Impact
Creating meaningful change in academia
Excellence
Maintaining high standards in all we do
Why This Platform Was Started
Practicum Labs was born out of a recognition that many talented students from underrepresented backgrounds face significant barriers to entering research fields. These barriers include lack of mentorship, limited access to resources, and systemic inequities in academic institutions.
Our founders experienced these challenges firsthand and were determined to create a solution that would make research opportunities more accessible to all students, regardless of their background.
By connecting students with mentors who understand their unique challenges and can provide guidance tailored to their needs, we're working to level the playing field and create more pathways to success in research.
"We started Practicum Labs because we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of knowledge through research. Diversity in research leads to better outcomes for everyone."
— Tejas Karusala and Pranav Ayyappan (Founders)
Our Journey
From a idea to a reality, here's how we've grown.
February 2025
Practicum Labs was founded by Tejas Karusala and Pranav Ayyappan in February 2025.
Coming soon...
Leadership Team
Meet the dedicated individuals who lead our organization.
Tejas Karusala
Founder & COO
Tech entrepreneur focused on building platforms that connect students with opportunities.
Pranav Ayyappan
Founder & CEO
Researcher focused on connecting and empowering students with life-changing research opportunities.
Join Our Community
Whether you're a student looking for mentorship or a researcher wanting to make an impact, we invite you to join our growing community.