In this exclusive biography of Dr Soumya Swaminathan, the inaugural chief scientist at the World Health Organization who served during the COVID-19 pandemic, Anuradha Mascarenhas tells the remarkable story of a career encompassing medicine, research, decision-making and philanthropy. She provides insights into the life of the globally acclaimed researcher drawing upon interviews with her family members, particularly her illustrious father, Dr M.S. Swaminathan, close friends and eminent scientists and researchers. She includes little-known anecdotes and stories from Swaminathan's days at school, college, universities and institutions in India and abroad. Some of the questions that are posed and answered include: Why did Dr Soumya Swaminathan initially refuse a top post at the World Health Organization? What made her reconsider? How did she tackle the challenges posed by the brutal COVID-19 pandemic to emerge as one of the most trusted scientific voices in the world? Mascarenhas shows how Swaminathan's unflappable and compassionate nature, her ability to connect with people and her willingness to work with others earned her worldwide recognition. At the Wheel of Research is an inspiring portrait of an impressive leader and a physician-scientist with a big heart.