Spotlight on... Aparna Murthy

Aparna Murthy, sitting on a red bench on a river boat with the riverbank visible
Aparna Murthy, sitting on a red bench on a river boat with the riverbank visible through a window in the background. She is looking at the camera and smiling.


This week, programme analyst Aparna chats to us about her extracurricular work with Astrea, UCL’s network for women in professional services. We also learn about her previous life behind the TV camera, and an upcoming aquatic adventure...

What is your role and what does it involve?

I work as a Programme Analyst in the Programme Management Office within Estates. I’m also privileged to co-chair the Astrea Network alongside Ferdouse Akhter. Astrea supports women in professional services roles at UCL and is open to all self-identifying women and non-binary staff, whether you’re just starting out or are already well-established in your career. As a dedicated team of volunteers, we publish a termly newsletter, and the Astrea Committee meets every six weeks. We warmly invite you to join the Astrea network or reach out to us at astrea@ucl.ac.uk.

How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role?

I joined UCL in 2017 as a Room Booking co-ordinator on a temporary basis and in 2019, I was successfully appointed as Timetabling Business Partner.

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?

I am particularly proud of my role as a Timetabling Business Partner with the Institute of Education and Population Health Sciences. We worked collaboratively to successfully launch continuous improvement and change initiatives, which significantly enhanced service delivery and the experience for both students and staff.

Tell us about a project you are working on now which is top of your to-do list

My focus within Astrea centers on two key priorities: ensuring the network’s long-term sustainability, both operationally and financially, and enhancing our brand visibility. Through a range of events and activities, we aim to create opportunities for colleagues to meet, connect, and grow. You can find out more on the Astrea website.

What is your favourite album, film and novel?

I have always enjoyed jugalbandi which literally translates to entwined twins. In Indian classical music it is a duet between two solo musicians, Bansuri and Tabla are my favourite.

My favourite film would be Life is Beautiful.

I am reading Paddle the Thames to explore with my husband in our canoe.

What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)?

What do you a call a bear with no teeth? A Gummy bear!

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

Lhakpa Sherpa, Chetna Gala Sinha, Barrack Obama, and my husband and son as the Chefs. 

What advice would you give your younger self?

Celebrate small wins, they are the stepping stones to bigger goals. 

What would it surprise people to know about you?

In my previous life, I was a television producer and entrepreneur in New Delhi, India. Looking back at those 16 years, I produced and directed all types of television content including entertainment/reality, sports shows and documentaries. I was fortunate to work with leading television channels including MTV, ESPN and Discovery Channel. 

What is your favourite place?

My favourite place is wherever I’m surrounded by my favourite people - family and friends - which can be anywhere in the world. I would be delighted to transport Astrea Happy to Chat benches wherever I am, to make it more special! 
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