Ballal was born and raised in one of the world’s largest river deltas called Bangladesh. He completed his undergraduate in mechanical engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) which is followed by a master’s at Miami University of Ohio. His master’s research was focused on understanding the self-healing, mechanical, and thermal properties of dynamically crosslinked polymers. Currently, he is investigating the origin of superionic transport in solid electrolyte materials. While working on superionic conductors, he developed strong interests in rich physics and mechanics of disordered solids. Besides his academic activities, he is very passionate about cricket, geography and history. In an alternate universe, he wants to be a fearsome fast bowler!