Itisha was born and raised in India, where she completed her undergraduate studies in Chemistry before moving to Finland to pursue a Master’s degree in Chemistry at the University of Helsinki. During her studies, she developed a particular interest in organic synthesis and the design of new synthetic approaches to complex molecules.

At the University of Helsinki, Itisha carried out her Master’s thesis on the synthesis of unconjugated 1,3-cyclohexene aldehydes as substrates for metal-free carbocatalytic aromatization. Her work involved developing an alternative synthetic route while navigating the occasional reality of organic chemistry: when one route refuses to cooperate, you find another one.

Her growing interest in interdisciplinary research eventually led her to the Deska group, where she worked on the oxidative activation of hydroxamic-acid-containing pharmaceuticals through transient acylnitroso species. Along the way, she discovered the joys of medicinal chemistry and got a glimpse into the world of biochemistry, thanks to the generous help of her colleagues. The experience broadened her interests beyond synthetic chemistry and eventually brought her to the Fiala group.