Sirji I completed my PhD abroad and returned hoping to work on cutting-edge gene editing therapies. However, our startup struggles with funding and regulatory hurdles, and I'm pulled into administrative and grant-writing work instead of core research. I aspire to lead my own lab or biotech venture focused on affordable diagnostics for rural areas. Could you advise on building leadership skills in a technical environment, balancing research excellence with business acumen, and attracting early-stage investors for high-risk biotech ventures? Also, how can I find mentors who understand both science and entrepreneurship?

Ans: Between CSE at Manipal Bangalore and SRM Main Campus, SRM offers a slightly higher placement rate (up to 95% for CSE), an average package of ?7–8 LPA, and a large recruiter base including TCS, Infosys, and Microsoft, with a long-established reputation and NAAC A++ accreditation. Manipal Bangalore’s CSE program is newer, with decent placements (60–65% in its first batch, highest package ?35 LPA), strong industry-oriented curriculum, and the advantage of being in India’s tech hub, but it lacks the established alumni network and placement consistency of SRM Main. For a COMEDK rank of 12,964, CSE in top Bangalore colleges like RVCE, BMSCE, and MSRIT is not possible, but you can get CSE in colleges like Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT), CMR Institute of Technology, Reva University, Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology, and Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Technology, all of which offer good placements and industry exposure.

Recommendation: Prefer CSE at SRM Main Campus for its higher placement consistency, established reputation, and broader recruiter network. If you strongly prefer Bangalore, NMIT or CMR Institute of Technology are good alternatives at your COMEDK rank, but Manipal Bangalore is best considered if you value location and emerging campus culture over placement history. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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