BEaTS Research Radio's Podcast Fri, 17 Jul 2026 19:16:07 -0400 https://beatsresearch.com/Radio.php en-ca © 2026 BEaTS Research Radio's Podcast yes bf13e138-5daf-5b0d-a90b-3b0dc1591ffe BEaTS Research Radio episodic false Each week on BEaTS Research Radio at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, early-career scientists and investigators deep dive into the ever-changing, rapidly evolving world of Science in one-on-one conversations with some of the planet's most brilliant Scientists, breaking down the science in terms you can understand

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Science, communities, research, medicine BEaTS Research Radio https://storage.buzzsprout.com/7f4bggr1h1mjbm26qmx1vg5v20b3?.jpg BEaTS Research Radio's Podcast https://beatsresearch.com/Radio.php Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Bryce Mulligan Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Bryce Mulligan In this episode, we sit down with Bryce, a clinical psychologist and musician whose work crosses the borders of mind and body, science and art, structure and improvisation. From assessing cognitive function in the Epilepsy unit to composing and performing folk-rock and psychedelic music, he explores how perception, embodiment, and shared experience shape both therapy and music. Join us as we dive into Bryce’s reflections on the parallels between music and psychology.

0:00:20 | Welcome to the Podcast
0:01:35 | Can you tell us about your journey? 
0:05:59 | Where does that instinctive ability for music come from? 
0:07:09 | How do you incorporate these arts into your work/patient care?
0:09:35 | How do you feel AI is shaping psychology? What are your concerns? 
0:17:35 | Do you have advice for health professionals who are starting their journey and feeling like they have to leave their art behind? 
0:20:02 | Thank you

]]> In this episode, we sit down with Bryce, a clinical psychologist and musician whose work crosses the borders of mind and body, science and art, structure and improvisation. From assessing cognitive function in the Epilepsy unit to composing and performing folk-rock and psychedelic music, he explores how perception, embodiment, and shared experience shape both therapy and music. Join us as we dive into Bryce’s reflections on the parallels between music and psychology.

0:00:20 | Welcome to the Podcast
0:01:35 | Can you tell us about your journey? 
0:05:59 | Where does that instinctive ability for music come from? 
0:07:09 | How do you incorporate these arts into your work/patient care?
0:09:35 | How do you feel AI is shaping psychology? What are your concerns? 
0:17:35 | Do you have advice for health professionals who are starting their journey and feeling like they have to leave their art behind? 
0:20:02 | Thank you

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18665516 Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0500 1247 Canada,University of Ottawa, Bodies, Borders 1 243 full true Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Madhukar Pai Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Madhukar Pai In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Madhukar Pai, a physician, researcher, and global health leader whose work has consistently crossed borders of geography, disciplines, and institutions to shape medical education and health equity globally. From his leadership at McGill International TB Centre to his widely read editorials on decolonizing global health, Dr. Pai has pushed the field to rethink how knowledge is shared, who gets to produce it, and how medical education can better serve people everywhere. His work has been widely recognized and his leadership valued in many global spaces. Join us as we explore Dr. Pai’s reflections on the challenges and opportunities of transforming medical education across
countries, fields, and organizations.

0:00:20 | Welcome to the Podcast
0:01:44 | Can you tell us about your journey? 
0:06:45 | How is global epistemic violence having an impact on young scholars? 
0:10:27 | How would you highlight the inequitities in global medical education? 
0:14:34 | Can you talk to us about your paper on being pulled into the "Matrix"?
0:19:05 | Will Global Health survive decolonization? And how do students maintain hope? 
0:25:57 | Thank you

]]> In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Madhukar Pai, a physician, researcher, and global health leader whose work has consistently crossed borders of geography, disciplines, and institutions to shape medical education and health equity globally. From his leadership at McGill International TB Centre to his widely read editorials on decolonizing global health, Dr. Pai has pushed the field to rethink how knowledge is shared, who gets to produce it, and how medical education can better serve people everywhere. His work has been widely recognized and his leadership valued in many global spaces. Join us as we explore Dr. Pai’s reflections on the challenges and opportunities of transforming medical education across
countries, fields, and organizations.

0:00:20 | Welcome to the Podcast
0:01:44 | Can you tell us about your journey? 
0:06:45 | How is global epistemic violence having an impact on young scholars? 
0:10:27 | How would you highlight the inequitities in global medical education? 
0:14:34 | Can you talk to us about your paper on being pulled into the "Matrix"?
0:19:05 | Will Global Health survive decolonization? And how do students maintain hope? 
0:25:57 | Thank you

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18624590 Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0500 1599 Canada, University of Ottawa 1 242 full true Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Professor Vishna Devi V Nadarajah Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Professor Vishna Devi V Nadarajah In this episode, we explore the work of Dr. Vishna Devi V Nadarajah, a global leader in health professions education whose career crosses borders of science, pedagogy, and geography. From biomedical research to institutional leadership, her work bridges disciplines, nations, and communities of practice. Prof. Vishna Devi V Nadarajah has transitioned to the role of Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic at IMU University in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. She was formerly CEO , Provost and Professor at Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia.

]]> In this episode, we explore the work of Dr. Vishna Devi V Nadarajah, a global leader in health professions education whose career crosses borders of science, pedagogy, and geography. From biomedical research to institutional leadership, her work bridges disciplines, nations, and communities of practice. Prof. Vishna Devi V Nadarajah has transitioned to the role of Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic at IMU University in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. She was formerly CEO , Provost and Professor at Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia.

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18584513 Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0500 1352 1 241 full false Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Saleem Razack Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Saleem Razack In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Saleem Razack, an innovator in changing discriminatory practices and systems in health education and healthcare. His work exists at the intersection of academic and clinical work - from leadership roles as well as research through/in residency programs to faculty advising. He also strives to bridge the gap between research and the application of research to educational policies in order to achieve social justice.

]]> In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Saleem Razack, an innovator in changing discriminatory practices and systems in health education and healthcare. His work exists at the intersection of academic and clinical work - from leadership roles as well as research through/in residency programs to faculty advising. He also strives to bridge the gap between research and the application of research to educational policies in order to achieve social justice.

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18555545 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:00:00 -0500 1232 1 240 full false Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Lorenzo Madrazo Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Lorenzo Madrazo In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lorenzo Madrazo, a General Internist and Clinical Scholar whose journey to medicine was shaped by his deep roots in music and education. We explore his research on resident leadership, physician wellness, and the formation of professional identity in healthcare, as well as how his relationship with the arts shapes his perspective. 

]]> In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lorenzo Madrazo, a General Internist and Clinical Scholar whose journey to medicine was shaped by his deep roots in music and education. We explore his research on resident leadership, physician wellness, and the formation of professional identity in healthcare, as well as how his relationship with the arts shapes his perspective. 

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18503896 Tue, 13 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0500 1309 1 239 full false Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Foluso Ishola Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Foluso Ishola In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Foluso Ishola, an internationally trained physician helping to transform global health and health systems through education, research, and policy. She has unique insights into how systems at various levels, from the local to international, shape health as well as how to navigate these spaces in a way that achieves the intended goals while maintaining stakeholder satisfaction.

]]> In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Foluso Ishola, an internationally trained physician helping to transform global health and health systems through education, research, and policy. She has unique insights into how systems at various levels, from the local to international, shape health as well as how to navigate these spaces in a way that achieves the intended goals while maintaining stakeholder satisfaction.

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18474345 Thu, 08 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0500 1284 1 238 full false Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Sheena Doyle Special Episode - Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Sheena Doyle In this episode, we speak with Sheena Doyle, a Master of Science in Nursing student at McGill University and a Labor and Delivery Nurse Clinician. We explore how she uses the arts as a powerful tool for critical reflection and health advocacy. Join us as we discuss her commitment to decolonizing healthcare and advancing ethical, relational models of care through research and community engagement.



]]> In this episode, we speak with Sheena Doyle, a Master of Science in Nursing student at McGill University and a Labor and Delivery Nurse Clinician. We explore how she uses the arts as a powerful tool for critical reflection and health advocacy. Join us as we discuss her commitment to decolonizing healthcare and advancing ethical, relational models of care through research and community engagement.



]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18334298 Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:00:00 -0500 1287 1 237 full false Special Episode - Seeing cancer in a different light Special Episode - Seeing cancer in a different light Ryan Tu from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Sangeeta Murugkar. Dr. Murugkar is an associate professor in the department of medical physics at Carleton University, where she established the Laboratory for Laser-Assisted Medical Physics and Engineering (LLAMPE). In this episode, Dr. Murugkar discusses her recent research in using the non-invasive imaging technique of Raman scattering microscopy to better understand the chemical changes that occur in breast cancer cells.

Learn more: https://lampe.physics.carleton.ca/people/

00:07 | BEaTS and host introduction
00:30 | Introduction to Dr. Murugkar
01:01 | Optical imaging techniques and ongoing research in this field
04:33 | Using Raman scattering microscopy to observe chemical changes in breast cancer
08:48 | Clinical applications of Raman scattering microscopy
14:08 | Conclusion

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Ryan Tu (voice), Abdelrahman Fahmy, Mason Gillick, Raghav Bhargava (post-production, content generation, producers)

]]> Ryan Tu from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Sangeeta Murugkar. Dr. Murugkar is an associate professor in the department of medical physics at Carleton University, where she established the Laboratory for Laser-Assisted Medical Physics and Engineering (LLAMPE). In this episode, Dr. Murugkar discusses her recent research in using the non-invasive imaging technique of Raman scattering microscopy to better understand the chemical changes that occur in breast cancer cells.

Learn more: https://lampe.physics.carleton.ca/people/

00:07 | BEaTS and host introduction
00:30 | Introduction to Dr. Murugkar
01:01 | Optical imaging techniques and ongoing research in this field
04:33 | Using Raman scattering microscopy to observe chemical changes in breast cancer
08:48 | Clinical applications of Raman scattering microscopy
14:08 | Conclusion

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Ryan Tu (voice), Abdelrahman Fahmy, Mason Gillick, Raghav Bhargava (post-production, content generation, producers)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302703 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 894 1 236 full false Special Episode - A Patch in a Syringe : Healing the Cornea From the Inside Out Special Episode - A Patch in a Syringe : Healing the Cornea From the Inside Out Chris Kachi from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. May Griffith and Andrés Mercado as part of the TMM4950 Science Communication course, exploring cutting-edge advances in bioengineered corneal regeneration.  Dr. Griffith is a senior scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and a professor in the Faculty of Medicine whose work focuses on regenerative biomaterials and translational ophthalmology. Andrés Mercado is a PhD student in Dr. Emilio Alarcón’s laboratory at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, developing tunable photo-sealants and customized biomaterials for ocular and soft-tissue repair.

In this episode, they discuss the development of the Cornea-in-a-Syringe (CIS) hydrogel, how regenerative biomaterials such as GF19-functionalized matrices can be tailored to promote ocular healing, and the future of minimally invasive technologies for corneal repair and vision restoration.

Learn more:
Dr. May Griffith - https://www.griffithresearch.ca/may-griffith-2
Andrés Mercado (Alarcón Lab) - https://www.beatsresearch.com/Alarcon.php

0:00 | BEaTS and host introduction.
0:27 | Introduction to Dr. Griffith.
1:11 | Childhood encounter in Malaysia that inspired Dr. Griffith’s mission.
2:57 | Main obstacles to corneal care in low-resource countries.
4:15 | Donor shortages and compatibility challenges in corneal transplants.
5:08 | Why donor compatibility matters and why people hesitate to donate.
5:44 | How artificial/cell-free corneas work - “Field of Dreams” analogy.
7:35 | What is Cornea-in-a-Syringe and how does it expand access?
9:10 | Why combine Cornea-in-a-Syringe with antiviral GF19 instead of just eye drops?
11:44 | Future of corneal treatments and a “vaccine-like” vision restoration.
13:10 | Comments from Andrés Mercado on Dr. Griffith’s work.
14:01 | Podcast conclusion.

Background music: “Podcast Background Music While Talking Interviews - Free Music to use, No Copyright” by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos.
Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 (CC BY 3.0).
Watch/listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdFqvdekuvI
Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@podcastbackgroundmusic
Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0
Music promoted by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos - https://www.youtube.com/@podcastbackgroundmusic

Alyssa Thomas (Content Generation), Michael Wossen (Producer), Chris Kachi (Voice), and Salah Hussein Aly (Post-Production)

]]> Chris Kachi from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. May Griffith and Andrés Mercado as part of the TMM4950 Science Communication course, exploring cutting-edge advances in bioengineered corneal regeneration.  Dr. Griffith is a senior scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and a professor in the Faculty of Medicine whose work focuses on regenerative biomaterials and translational ophthalmology. Andrés Mercado is a PhD student in Dr. Emilio Alarcón’s laboratory at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, developing tunable photo-sealants and customized biomaterials for ocular and soft-tissue repair.

In this episode, they discuss the development of the Cornea-in-a-Syringe (CIS) hydrogel, how regenerative biomaterials such as GF19-functionalized matrices can be tailored to promote ocular healing, and the future of minimally invasive technologies for corneal repair and vision restoration.

Learn more:
Dr. May Griffith - https://www.griffithresearch.ca/may-griffith-2
Andrés Mercado (Alarcón Lab) - https://www.beatsresearch.com/Alarcon.php

0:00 | BEaTS and host introduction.
0:27 | Introduction to Dr. Griffith.
1:11 | Childhood encounter in Malaysia that inspired Dr. Griffith’s mission.
2:57 | Main obstacles to corneal care in low-resource countries.
4:15 | Donor shortages and compatibility challenges in corneal transplants.
5:08 | Why donor compatibility matters and why people hesitate to donate.
5:44 | How artificial/cell-free corneas work - “Field of Dreams” analogy.
7:35 | What is Cornea-in-a-Syringe and how does it expand access?
9:10 | Why combine Cornea-in-a-Syringe with antiviral GF19 instead of just eye drops?
11:44 | Future of corneal treatments and a “vaccine-like” vision restoration.
13:10 | Comments from Andrés Mercado on Dr. Griffith’s work.
14:01 | Podcast conclusion.

Background music: “Podcast Background Music While Talking Interviews - Free Music to use, No Copyright” by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos.
Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 (CC BY 3.0).
Watch/listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdFqvdekuvI
Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@podcastbackgroundmusic
Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0
Music promoted by Copyright Free Music - Background Music For Videos - https://www.youtube.com/@podcastbackgroundmusic

Alyssa Thomas (Content Generation), Michael Wossen (Producer), Chris Kachi (Voice), and Salah Hussein Aly (Post-Production)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302696 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 891 1 235 full false Special Episode - What's the Motion? Special Episode - What's the Motion? In this episode, co-hosts Sam and Ammi from the University of Ottawa’s TMM program are in conversation with Dr. Kevin Smit, a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon and Clinical Researcher at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).

The conversation centers around Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS), which is an abnormal curvature of the spine with no known cause, and can have a significant impact on the lives of its young patients. Dr. Smit is a part of inspiring new research on a developing treatment that could help preserve patient mobility while correcting the curve, called Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT). Here, we discuss AIS and its impact, as well as what makes VBT a unique and promising treatment.

To read the full study: https://doi.org/10.1007/s43390-022-00578-6
Maksimovic, M. et al. The effect of vertebral body tethering on spine range of motion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A pilot study. Spine Deformity 11, 123–131 (2022).

00:04 Introduction

01:11 | As a clinician and researcher, how do you balance these 2 aspects of your life?

02:20 | How do you explain treatment options to your young patients?

04:49 | How do patient impacts inform your research?

09:44 | Are there risks/complications associated with that surgery and recovery?

11:32 | Does having that shoelace allow the patients more motion?

13:36 | Where do you see this research leading?

14:37 | Thank you!

14:47 Outro & Credits


Music: “Lounging Lads” from the Lofi Phantasy album by DanAndPhilBEATS and Lowave.

Saeid Kholgi (producer), Samantha Kiraly (co-host & writing), Ammi Paul (co-host & post-production), Moumita Dutta (writing & social media production)

]]> In this episode, co-hosts Sam and Ammi from the University of Ottawa’s TMM program are in conversation with Dr. Kevin Smit, a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon and Clinical Researcher at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).

The conversation centers around Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS), which is an abnormal curvature of the spine with no known cause, and can have a significant impact on the lives of its young patients. Dr. Smit is a part of inspiring new research on a developing treatment that could help preserve patient mobility while correcting the curve, called Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT). Here, we discuss AIS and its impact, as well as what makes VBT a unique and promising treatment.

To read the full study: https://doi.org/10.1007/s43390-022-00578-6
Maksimovic, M. et al. The effect of vertebral body tethering on spine range of motion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A pilot study. Spine Deformity 11, 123–131 (2022).

00:04 Introduction

01:11 | As a clinician and researcher, how do you balance these 2 aspects of your life?

02:20 | How do you explain treatment options to your young patients?

04:49 | How do patient impacts inform your research?

09:44 | Are there risks/complications associated with that surgery and recovery?

11:32 | Does having that shoelace allow the patients more motion?

13:36 | Where do you see this research leading?

14:37 | Thank you!

14:47 Outro & Credits


Music: “Lounging Lads” from the Lofi Phantasy album by DanAndPhilBEATS and Lowave.

Saeid Kholgi (producer), Samantha Kiraly (co-host & writing), Ammi Paul (co-host & post-production), Moumita Dutta (writing & social media production)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302686 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 904 1 234 full false Special Episode - Phage Therapy: Using Viruses as Medicine Special Episode - Phage Therapy: Using Viruses as Medicine Katya Krykunova from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marisa Azad from The Ottawa Hospital about the first use of phage therapy in Canada. Dr. Azad's patient developed a life-threatening periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) of her hip implant. She was allergic to most major antibiotics; the culprit bacteria were resistant to all others, and further surgery would risk her life. All conventional treatments were exhausted. With the patient’s condition declining, Dr. Azad decided to team up with Cytophage Technologies and pursue phage therapy as a last resort. In this episode, Dr. Azad walks us through this clinical case and highlights how phage therapy offers an alternative approach for targeting infections when antibiotics and surgery fail.

Learn more: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/8/1118

0:04 | BEaTS and host introduction

0:20 | What is phage therapy?

0:56 | Introduction to Dr. Marisa Azad

2:52 | What are PJIs?

4:26 | Using phage therapy for a severe case of PJI

7:29 | Making phage therapy possible for this patient in collaboration with Cytophage Technologies

9:27 | Ensuring the safety and efficacy of phage therapy

11:31 | What Dr. Azad has learned throughout the process

13:07 | Science, medicine, and art

14:08 | Concluding remarks


Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Show Host: Katya Krykunova
Producer: Meghan Walsh
Writer: Sydney Brown, Katya Krykunova
Content generation: Talia LoFaro, Meghan Walsh, Katya Krykunova
Editor: Meghan Walsh, Katya Krykunova, Sydney Brown, Talia LoFaro
Audio post-production: Sydney Brown
Social media coordinator: Talia LoFaro

]]> Katya Krykunova from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marisa Azad from The Ottawa Hospital about the first use of phage therapy in Canada. Dr. Azad's patient developed a life-threatening periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) of her hip implant. She was allergic to most major antibiotics; the culprit bacteria were resistant to all others, and further surgery would risk her life. All conventional treatments were exhausted. With the patient’s condition declining, Dr. Azad decided to team up with Cytophage Technologies and pursue phage therapy as a last resort. In this episode, Dr. Azad walks us through this clinical case and highlights how phage therapy offers an alternative approach for targeting infections when antibiotics and surgery fail.

Learn more: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/8/1118

0:04 | BEaTS and host introduction

0:20 | What is phage therapy?

0:56 | Introduction to Dr. Marisa Azad

2:52 | What are PJIs?

4:26 | Using phage therapy for a severe case of PJI

7:29 | Making phage therapy possible for this patient in collaboration with Cytophage Technologies

9:27 | Ensuring the safety and efficacy of phage therapy

11:31 | What Dr. Azad has learned throughout the process

13:07 | Science, medicine, and art

14:08 | Concluding remarks


Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Show Host: Katya Krykunova
Producer: Meghan Walsh
Writer: Sydney Brown, Katya Krykunova
Content generation: Talia LoFaro, Meghan Walsh, Katya Krykunova
Editor: Meghan Walsh, Katya Krykunova, Sydney Brown, Talia LoFaro
Audio post-production: Sydney Brown
Social media coordinator: Talia LoFaro

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302672 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 872 1 233 full false Special Episode - Infecting the Infection: Viruses become our Ally Special Episode - Infecting the Infection: Viruses become our Ally Mattea Abou Faiçal from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marisa Azad. Dr. Marisa Azad is an Associate Clinical Scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, and a Mayo Clinic Research Collaborator. She is also an Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at The Ottawa Hospital. In this episode, Dr. Marisa Azad shares her research on phage therapy and how her team delivered Canada’s first treatment for a multidrug-resistant joint infection.

Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-marisa-azad

0:04 | BEaTS and host introduction.
1:11 | Introduction to Dr. Azad.
1:45 | Why are periprosthetic joint infections so difficult to treat?
3:30 | Introduction to phages, phage therapy, and a landmark Canadian case study
6:26 | Finding the right phage: collaboration between Cytophage Technologies and The Ottawa Hospital
9:45 | Ethical and regulatory hurdles
12:00 | The growing potential of phage therapy and its current limitations
14:15 | Closing remarks and credits

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Abhijit Sinha (Content Generation), Mattheo Fakhouri (Producer), Mattea Abou Faiçal (Voice) and Jean-Paul Azzi (Post-production)

]]> Mattea Abou Faiçal from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Marisa Azad. Dr. Marisa Azad is an Associate Clinical Scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, and a Mayo Clinic Research Collaborator. She is also an Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases at The Ottawa Hospital. In this episode, Dr. Marisa Azad shares her research on phage therapy and how her team delivered Canada’s first treatment for a multidrug-resistant joint infection.

Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-marisa-azad

0:04 | BEaTS and host introduction.
1:11 | Introduction to Dr. Azad.
1:45 | Why are periprosthetic joint infections so difficult to treat?
3:30 | Introduction to phages, phage therapy, and a landmark Canadian case study
6:26 | Finding the right phage: collaboration between Cytophage Technologies and The Ottawa Hospital
9:45 | Ethical and regulatory hurdles
12:00 | The growing potential of phage therapy and its current limitations
14:15 | Closing remarks and credits

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Abhijit Sinha (Content Generation), Mattheo Fakhouri (Producer), Mattea Abou Faiçal (Voice) and Jean-Paul Azzi (Post-production)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302664 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 897 1 232 full false Special Episode - Understanding the Cost of Saving the Day, Every Day Special Episode - Understanding the Cost of Saving the Day, Every Day In this episode, James Humber, a Translational and Molecular Medicine student from the University of Ottawa, interviews Dr. Simon Hatcher on behalf of his team for the TMM 4950 Science Communication course. Dr. Hatcher is a psychiatrist at the Ottawa Hospital and Medical Director of Psychiatry at Ottawa Inner City Health. He’s also a scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and a professor and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Ottawa. His research focuses on suicide prevention and managing the effects of trauma. Together, they address the factors surrounding public safety personnel suicides in Ontario, the contributing stressors, and how policies can change to ensure better mental health care. Special thanks to Dr. Nicholas Carleton, a professor of clinical psychology and registered clinical psychologist in Saskatchewan, who contributed to the making of this episode.

Learn more: https://hatchingideaslab.com/research
https://ptsslab.ca/

2:18 | Introducing our guest: Dr. Simon Hatcher
4:22 | Rethinking resilience in public safety personnel (PSP)
5:12 | Discussion of findings from his recent (2024) paper
7:40 | Exploring Dr. Nick Carleton’s insights
14:28 | Looking ahead: A message of hope
15:24 | Closing remarks

Perfect Storm - Kara Square and Piero Peluche by Piero Peluche (c) copyright 2020 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial  (3.0) license. https://dig.ccmixter.org/files/pieropeluche/61852 Ft: Kara Square

James Humber (Host), Angélique Cayer (Producer), and Mélodie Bellefleur (Writer)


]]> In this episode, James Humber, a Translational and Molecular Medicine student from the University of Ottawa, interviews Dr. Simon Hatcher on behalf of his team for the TMM 4950 Science Communication course. Dr. Hatcher is a psychiatrist at the Ottawa Hospital and Medical Director of Psychiatry at Ottawa Inner City Health. He’s also a scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and a professor and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Ottawa. His research focuses on suicide prevention and managing the effects of trauma. Together, they address the factors surrounding public safety personnel suicides in Ontario, the contributing stressors, and how policies can change to ensure better mental health care. Special thanks to Dr. Nicholas Carleton, a professor of clinical psychology and registered clinical psychologist in Saskatchewan, who contributed to the making of this episode.

Learn more: https://hatchingideaslab.com/research
https://ptsslab.ca/

2:18 | Introducing our guest: Dr. Simon Hatcher
4:22 | Rethinking resilience in public safety personnel (PSP)
5:12 | Discussion of findings from his recent (2024) paper
7:40 | Exploring Dr. Nick Carleton’s insights
14:28 | Looking ahead: A message of hope
15:24 | Closing remarks

Perfect Storm - Kara Square and Piero Peluche by Piero Peluche (c) copyright 2020 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial  (3.0) license. https://dig.ccmixter.org/files/pieropeluche/61852 Ft: Kara Square

James Humber (Host), Angélique Cayer (Producer), and Mélodie Bellefleur (Writer)


]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302644 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 969 1 231 full false Special Episode - The Hidden Declines in Long-Term Care Special Episode - The Hidden Declines in Long-Term Care In this episode, TMM students discuss the hidden declines in long-term care, drawing on insights from Dr. Daniel Kobewka, Dr. Sandy Shamon, and Dr. Susan Mitchell. Through examining changes in mental and physical function, the study highlights how this knowledge can guide more informed, dignity-focused decisions for residents and their families.

Learn more: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.5635

 Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
  https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Katie Klein (Producer), Sarah Rehmani (Show Host), Paniz Akbari (Social Media Editor), Charlie Levine (Writer Editor)

]]> In this episode, TMM students discuss the hidden declines in long-term care, drawing on insights from Dr. Daniel Kobewka, Dr. Sandy Shamon, and Dr. Susan Mitchell. Through examining changes in mental and physical function, the study highlights how this knowledge can guide more informed, dignity-focused decisions for residents and their families.

Learn more: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.5635

 Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
  https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Katie Klein (Producer), Sarah Rehmani (Show Host), Paniz Akbari (Social Media Editor), Charlie Levine (Writer Editor)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302606 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 900 1 230 full false Special Episode - Beyond the Plaque: How Energy Metabolism Shapes Heart Disease Special Episode - Beyond the Plaque: How Energy Metabolism Shapes Heart Disease Jack Cowan from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Morgan Fullerton, a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, on behalf of his team in the TMM4950 Science Communication course. Dr. Fullerton discusses dysregulated cholesterol metabolism, a hallmark of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. He delves into his lab’s recent study examining whether AMPK, the cell’s energy sensor, truly protects against atherosclerosis by limiting cholesterol production, where his team made an unexpected discovery that challenged long-standing assumptions in cardiovascular research.

Learn more: https://www.fullertonlab.com/

0:00 | Introduction

1:34 | Introduction of guest (Dr. Morgan Fullerton)

2:35 | What is atherosclerosis?

4:05 | The cell's energy sensor (AMPK)

5:25 | Targeting AMPK|HMGCR to protect against atherosclerosis

7:42 | What was expected when AMPK's control was removed?

8:32 | Importance of validating a disease model

10:25 | Does removing AMPK change atherosclerosis?

12:53 | Future therapies

13:52 | Commentary (provided by Dr. Emily Day) and conclusion

 

Music is non-copyrighted and free for use.


Jack Cowan (Host), Toshka Besharah (Writer), Melissa Barnett (Producer)


]]> Jack Cowan from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Morgan Fullerton, a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, on behalf of his team in the TMM4950 Science Communication course. Dr. Fullerton discusses dysregulated cholesterol metabolism, a hallmark of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. He delves into his lab’s recent study examining whether AMPK, the cell’s energy sensor, truly protects against atherosclerosis by limiting cholesterol production, where his team made an unexpected discovery that challenged long-standing assumptions in cardiovascular research.

Learn more: https://www.fullertonlab.com/

0:00 | Introduction

1:34 | Introduction of guest (Dr. Morgan Fullerton)

2:35 | What is atherosclerosis?

4:05 | The cell's energy sensor (AMPK)

5:25 | Targeting AMPK|HMGCR to protect against atherosclerosis

7:42 | What was expected when AMPK's control was removed?

8:32 | Importance of validating a disease model

10:25 | Does removing AMPK change atherosclerosis?

12:53 | Future therapies

13:52 | Commentary (provided by Dr. Emily Day) and conclusion

 

Music is non-copyrighted and free for use.


Jack Cowan (Host), Toshka Besharah (Writer), Melissa Barnett (Producer)


]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302586 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 899 1 229 full false Special Episode - Awakening the Temperate Beast Special Episode - Awakening the Temperate Beast Ananya Jain from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr Adam Rudner about advances in temperate bacteriophage research. Dr. Rudner is a researcher and associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. He also co-leads the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) associated bacteriophage discovery lab for students in the Translational and Molecular Medicine Program at the University of Ottawa. In this episode, Dr. Rudner discusses bacteriophage basics, the current state of bacteriophage therapy, and how temperate bacteriophages could be harnessed in the future of bacteriophage therapy. Dr Rudner also highlights novel discoveries in the field of temperate bacteriophage biology by discussing his own lab's discovery of a new lysogeny mechanism and discussing the work of Dr. Alex Hynes, a researcher and associate professor at McMaster University, who discovered temperate phage antibiotic synergy (tPAS).

Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-adam-rudner

0:00 | Introduction to the Podcast
0:29 | Introduction to Dr. Adam Rudner
1:16 | What inspired Dr. Rudner to pursue bacteriophage research
2:23 | The differences between lytic and lysogenic bacteriophages
3:26 | The importance of researching bacteriophages and their therapeutic potential
4:57 | Discussing the work of Dr. Alex Hynes and his discovery of temperate phage antibiotic synergy (tPAS)
7:12 | Advancements required to implement temperate phages and tPAS in therapeutics
8:25 | The discovery of a novel lysogeny mechanism by Dr. Rudner's lab
13:50 | Key Takeaways
14:27 | Concluding Remarks

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Ananya Jain (Host), Rebecca Santhosh Babu (Writer), Mirabel Joseph (Social Media Coordinator), Amber Morton (Producer)

]]> Ananya Jain from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr Adam Rudner about advances in temperate bacteriophage research. Dr. Rudner is a researcher and associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. He also co-leads the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) associated bacteriophage discovery lab for students in the Translational and Molecular Medicine Program at the University of Ottawa. In this episode, Dr. Rudner discusses bacteriophage basics, the current state of bacteriophage therapy, and how temperate bacteriophages could be harnessed in the future of bacteriophage therapy. Dr Rudner also highlights novel discoveries in the field of temperate bacteriophage biology by discussing his own lab's discovery of a new lysogeny mechanism and discussing the work of Dr. Alex Hynes, a researcher and associate professor at McMaster University, who discovered temperate phage antibiotic synergy (tPAS).

Learn more: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-adam-rudner

0:00 | Introduction to the Podcast
0:29 | Introduction to Dr. Adam Rudner
1:16 | What inspired Dr. Rudner to pursue bacteriophage research
2:23 | The differences between lytic and lysogenic bacteriophages
3:26 | The importance of researching bacteriophages and their therapeutic potential
4:57 | Discussing the work of Dr. Alex Hynes and his discovery of temperate phage antibiotic synergy (tPAS)
7:12 | Advancements required to implement temperate phages and tPAS in therapeutics
8:25 | The discovery of a novel lysogeny mechanism by Dr. Rudner's lab
13:50 | Key Takeaways
14:27 | Concluding Remarks

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Ananya Jain (Host), Rebecca Santhosh Babu (Writer), Mirabel Joseph (Social Media Coordinator), Amber Morton (Producer)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302579 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 898 1 228 full false Special Episode - A Little Radiation Goes a Long Way Special Episode - A Little Radiation Goes a Long Way In this episode of the BEaTS Research Radio, Annie Xiang from the University of Ottawa sits down with Dr. Marcelo Vazquez, radiobiology section head at the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. Together, they explore how cosmic and proton radiation affects the human body as astronauts prepare for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Dr. Vazquez shares his journey from aspiring astronaut to NASA researcher, explains the power of human brain organoids as cutting-edge research models, and highlights how this work will help protect future astronauts.            

Learn more: https://space.uwo.ca/people/our-members/vazquez-marcelo/index.html

0:01 | BEaTs and host introduction
0:50 | Introduction by Dr. Vazquez and his scientific journey
4:18 | Overview of Dr. Vazquez's research on radiation biology
5:58 | Summary of a paper published by Dr. Vazquez regarding radiation on brain organoids
6:54 | Reasons for using human brain organoid models
8:57 | Challenges encountered during the research process
11:30 | How Dr. Vazquez's findings can help protect astronauts from space radiation
13:30 | Final takeaways by Dr. Vazquez

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Annie Xiang (Voice), Annie Xiang, Adam Al-Khalili, Kamron Yunusov, Tabassum Howlader (Post-production, Content generation, Producers).

]]> In this episode of the BEaTS Research Radio, Annie Xiang from the University of Ottawa sits down with Dr. Marcelo Vazquez, radiobiology section head at the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. Together, they explore how cosmic and proton radiation affects the human body as astronauts prepare for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Dr. Vazquez shares his journey from aspiring astronaut to NASA researcher, explains the power of human brain organoids as cutting-edge research models, and highlights how this work will help protect future astronauts.            

Learn more: https://space.uwo.ca/people/our-members/vazquez-marcelo/index.html

0:01 | BEaTs and host introduction
0:50 | Introduction by Dr. Vazquez and his scientific journey
4:18 | Overview of Dr. Vazquez's research on radiation biology
5:58 | Summary of a paper published by Dr. Vazquez regarding radiation on brain organoids
6:54 | Reasons for using human brain organoid models
8:57 | Challenges encountered during the research process
11:30 | How Dr. Vazquez's findings can help protect astronauts from space radiation
13:30 | Final takeaways by Dr. Vazquez

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Annie Xiang (Voice), Annie Xiang, Adam Al-Khalili, Kamron Yunusov, Tabassum Howlader (Post-production, Content generation, Producers).

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302573 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 897 1 227 full false Special Episode - Equipping and Empowering Learners Special Episode - Equipping and Empowering Learners Global challenges like climate change demand urgent action, and chemistry is at the center of these emerging solutions. However, graduates starting chemistry-based careers often leave the classroom unprepared to tackle complex global issues. In this podcast, we speak with Dr. Alison Flynn, Principal Investigator of the Flynn Research Group, about how her team is developing strategies to create more engaging and effective learning experiences for students, including the integration of systems thinking into the curriculum. We explore her educational journey, what inspired her to focus on chemistry education, how systems thinking can be applied in classrooms, her thoughts on AI as an emerging educational tool, and more. We also share insights from Dr. Peter Mahaffy on educational resources available to support instructors. 

Learn more: https://www.flynnresearchgroup.com/

00:11 | Introduction
01:23- Dr. Flynn's education background
02:49| Challenges and highlights of researching chemistry education
03:40| What is systems thinking
06:24| How to integrate systems thinking into the classroom
07:32| Comment from Peter Mahaffy on tips for educators
07:50| Challenges in organic chemistry and how to succeed
09:14| Redesigning the UOttawa curriculum
11:10| Artificial Intelligence as a tool
13:20| The future of chemistry education
14:48| Conclusion and closing remarks

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:

https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Justin Nguyen (Producer), Sophia Guy (Host), Induja Arulchelvam (Writer), Kathleen Connolly (Social Media Producer) 


]]> Global challenges like climate change demand urgent action, and chemistry is at the center of these emerging solutions. However, graduates starting chemistry-based careers often leave the classroom unprepared to tackle complex global issues. In this podcast, we speak with Dr. Alison Flynn, Principal Investigator of the Flynn Research Group, about how her team is developing strategies to create more engaging and effective learning experiences for students, including the integration of systems thinking into the curriculum. We explore her educational journey, what inspired her to focus on chemistry education, how systems thinking can be applied in classrooms, her thoughts on AI as an emerging educational tool, and more. We also share insights from Dr. Peter Mahaffy on educational resources available to support instructors. 

Learn more: https://www.flynnresearchgroup.com/

00:11 | Introduction
01:23- Dr. Flynn's education background
02:49| Challenges and highlights of researching chemistry education
03:40| What is systems thinking
06:24| How to integrate systems thinking into the classroom
07:32| Comment from Peter Mahaffy on tips for educators
07:50| Challenges in organic chemistry and how to succeed
09:14| Redesigning the UOttawa curriculum
11:10| Artificial Intelligence as a tool
13:20| The future of chemistry education
14:48| Conclusion and closing remarks

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:

https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR

Justin Nguyen (Producer), Sophia Guy (Host), Induja Arulchelvam (Writer), Kathleen Connolly (Social Media Producer) 


]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302558 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 956 1 226 full false Special Episode - Lab-Grown Testes: A New Frontier for Fertility Special Episode - Lab-Grown Testes: A New Frontier for Fertility Listen to this University of Ottawa TMM student discuss 3D testis bioprinting with distinguished guest Dr. Stephanie Willerth. The episode provides an exciting peek into how bioprinting technologies are reshaping reproductive biology research.

Learn more: https://bme.ubc.ca/?directory=stephanie-willerth

1:00  |  Early Life, Education, and Journey into Research
2:45  |  Exploring the Shift to Reproductive Bioprinting
5:20  |  Overcoming Challenges
8:10  |  Microsphere Stability and Reproducibility
10:00  |  Potential Applications of Microspheres
10:45  |  Progress Toward an In-Vivo Model for Full Human Spermatogenesis
12:50 |  Advice for Young Scientists

Soundrack

Step Into The Light by Zenboy1955 

http://mixter.plus/myTracks.php?id=70336

Catherine Waghorn (Producer), Mathieu D'Souza (Host), Bayan Abou Mehrem (Social Media), Grace Stocker (Editor)

]]> Listen to this University of Ottawa TMM student discuss 3D testis bioprinting with distinguished guest Dr. Stephanie Willerth. The episode provides an exciting peek into how bioprinting technologies are reshaping reproductive biology research.

Learn more: https://bme.ubc.ca/?directory=stephanie-willerth

1:00  |  Early Life, Education, and Journey into Research
2:45  |  Exploring the Shift to Reproductive Bioprinting
5:20  |  Overcoming Challenges
8:10  |  Microsphere Stability and Reproducibility
10:00  |  Potential Applications of Microspheres
10:45  |  Progress Toward an In-Vivo Model for Full Human Spermatogenesis
12:50 |  Advice for Young Scientists

Soundrack

Step Into The Light by Zenboy1955 

http://mixter.plus/myTracks.php?id=70336

Catherine Waghorn (Producer), Mathieu D'Souza (Host), Bayan Abou Mehrem (Social Media), Grace Stocker (Editor)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302542 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 887 1 225 full false Special Episode - Lost in Translation Special Episode - Lost in Translation In this episode titled “Lost in Translation”, we dive into the complex world of bringing cell therapies from the lab to human trials. With our guest Matthew Jeffers, author of a recent scoping review on this topic, we explore what regulators look for in promising cell therapies and why inconsistent guidelines can leave researchers unsure of their next steps. By summarizing expectations from various regulatory agencies worldwide, Jeffers et. al’s study offers a clearer blueprint for preclinical research, helping innovative treatments reach patients faster. 

Learn more: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/msjeffers

0:05 | Introduction
0:46 | Guest introduction
1:24 | Why should we research the regulatory application process?
3:05 | Reasons for the limited coordination between regulators, despite the existence of international health agencies.
5:50 | How regulatory systems shift during exceptional circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lessons that can be applied to improve the translation of future therapies.
9:34 | The importance of placing a greater emphasis on understanding the regulatory landscape as scientific researchers and students.
12:00 | Episode summary


Background music "Embrace" by Evgeny_Bardyuzha, free for use under Pixabay's Content License.
https://pixabay.com/music/electronic-embrace-364091/

Hosts: Nicholas Lafond and Seb Parmasad
Post-production & Content generation: Chloé McAllister, Mila Schaffrath, Nicholas Lafond, and Seb Parmasad


]]> In this episode titled “Lost in Translation”, we dive into the complex world of bringing cell therapies from the lab to human trials. With our guest Matthew Jeffers, author of a recent scoping review on this topic, we explore what regulators look for in promising cell therapies and why inconsistent guidelines can leave researchers unsure of their next steps. By summarizing expectations from various regulatory agencies worldwide, Jeffers et. al’s study offers a clearer blueprint for preclinical research, helping innovative treatments reach patients faster. 

Learn more: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/msjeffers

0:05 | Introduction
0:46 | Guest introduction
1:24 | Why should we research the regulatory application process?
3:05 | Reasons for the limited coordination between regulators, despite the existence of international health agencies.
5:50 | How regulatory systems shift during exceptional circumstances, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lessons that can be applied to improve the translation of future therapies.
9:34 | The importance of placing a greater emphasis on understanding the regulatory landscape as scientific researchers and students.
12:00 | Episode summary


Background music "Embrace" by Evgeny_Bardyuzha, free for use under Pixabay's Content License.
https://pixabay.com/music/electronic-embrace-364091/

Hosts: Nicholas Lafond and Seb Parmasad
Post-production & Content generation: Chloé McAllister, Mila Schaffrath, Nicholas Lafond, and Seb Parmasad


]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302528 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 756 1 224 full false Special Episode - Churro-Inspired Artery Fix Special Episode - Churro-Inspired Artery Fix Puksar Kunwar, a student from the University of Ottawa, interviews Dr. Marcelo Muñoz for the TMM4950 Science Communication course, focusing on his work developing miniaturized devices for the on-the-spot generation of small-diameter vascular grafts. Dr. Muñoz is an early-career researcher at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, specializing in clinical peptide therapeutics, biomaterials innovation, and biomedical device design. He was recognized as the top graduating pharmacist in Chile by the National Pharmacy Association. His research aims to “print” new blood vessels inside the human body using a catheter during minimally invasive procedures, and potentially eliminating the need for open-chest surgery.

Learn more: https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.202500077

0:09 | Introduction to Podcast
0:35 | Introduction to Dr. Muñoz
2:10 | Relevance of Cardiovascular Diseases and Story behind the Discovery of the Device
4:05 | Brief Description of the Device
6:16 | Progress in Clinical Trials with reference to TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation)
9:30 | Advice for Future Scientists
13:18 | Closing Remarks

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR 


Bhavya Joshi (Post-production & Content generation), Cynthia Chahine (Post-production &Producer), Puskar Kunwar (Show Host), Ezechiel Sugr-Noma Yameogo (Social Media Editor) 

]]> Puksar Kunwar, a student from the University of Ottawa, interviews Dr. Marcelo Muñoz for the TMM4950 Science Communication course, focusing on his work developing miniaturized devices for the on-the-spot generation of small-diameter vascular grafts. Dr. Muñoz is an early-career researcher at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, specializing in clinical peptide therapeutics, biomaterials innovation, and biomedical device design. He was recognized as the top graduating pharmacist in Chile by the National Pharmacy Association. His research aims to “print” new blood vessels inside the human body using a catheter during minimally invasive procedures, and potentially eliminating the need for open-chest surgery.

Learn more: https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.202500077

0:09 | Introduction to Podcast
0:35 | Introduction to Dr. Muñoz
2:10 | Relevance of Cardiovascular Diseases and Story behind the Discovery of the Device
4:05 | Brief Description of the Device
6:16 | Progress in Clinical Trials with reference to TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation)
9:30 | Advice for Future Scientists
13:18 | Closing Remarks

Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR 


Bhavya Joshi (Post-production & Content generation), Cynthia Chahine (Post-production &Producer), Puskar Kunwar (Show Host), Ezechiel Sugr-Noma Yameogo (Social Media Editor) 

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302520 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 879 1 223 full false Special Episode - A New Era in Transplantation: Keeping Hearts Alive for 48H Special Episode - A New Era in Transplantation: Keeping Hearts Alive for 48H Juliet Cruz and Maria Nikokavoura from the University of Ottawa interview Dr. Giovanni Ferrari for the TMM4950 Science Communication course about pushing the limits of donor heart preservation times. Dr. Ferrari is an associate professor of surgical sciences and the Scientific director of the cardiothoracic research program at Columbia University. Dr. Ferrari's research focuses on exploring how the heart functions and how we can better protect it, especially during surgery and organ transplantation. In this episode, Dr. Ferrari presents his findings from their work on a revolutionary method to keep donor hearts viable for up to 48 hours outside the body using a novel oxygen-rich cooling system. This could dramatically expand access to life-saving transplants and reshape how we think about organ preservation.

Learn more: https://columbiasurgery.org/about/giovanni-ferrari-phd

0:00 | Introduction to podcast
0:18 | Introduction to Dr. Ferrari
1:11 | What sparked Dr. Ferrari’s early interest in the heart and organ preservation?
2:59 | What is the HOPE system, and how does it differ from standard cold storage?
5:32 | Why push the limits of donor heart preservation, and what challenges came with it?
6:44 | What surprising insights emerged from the RNA and metabolomic analyses?
9:15 | How did it feel to see a HOPE-preserved heart beat again after 48 hours?
11:15 | Can HOPE principles be applied to preserve other organs in transplantation?
12:09 | What future research questions is the team most excited to pursue?
14:30 | What advice does Dr. Ferrari have for young scientists bridging engineering and medicine?
15:27 | Closing remarks

“Only You with the Universe” by Spøq, licensed via Tribe of Noise PRO. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://prosearch.tribeofnoise.com/artists/show/78252/44118 


Juliet Cruz and Maria Nikokavoura (Voice), Reena Corbane (Post-Production), Nika Abedian (Producer)

]]> Juliet Cruz and Maria Nikokavoura from the University of Ottawa interview Dr. Giovanni Ferrari for the TMM4950 Science Communication course about pushing the limits of donor heart preservation times. Dr. Ferrari is an associate professor of surgical sciences and the Scientific director of the cardiothoracic research program at Columbia University. Dr. Ferrari's research focuses on exploring how the heart functions and how we can better protect it, especially during surgery and organ transplantation. In this episode, Dr. Ferrari presents his findings from their work on a revolutionary method to keep donor hearts viable for up to 48 hours outside the body using a novel oxygen-rich cooling system. This could dramatically expand access to life-saving transplants and reshape how we think about organ preservation.

Learn more: https://columbiasurgery.org/about/giovanni-ferrari-phd

0:00 | Introduction to podcast
0:18 | Introduction to Dr. Ferrari
1:11 | What sparked Dr. Ferrari’s early interest in the heart and organ preservation?
2:59 | What is the HOPE system, and how does it differ from standard cold storage?
5:32 | Why push the limits of donor heart preservation, and what challenges came with it?
6:44 | What surprising insights emerged from the RNA and metabolomic analyses?
9:15 | How did it feel to see a HOPE-preserved heart beat again after 48 hours?
11:15 | Can HOPE principles be applied to preserve other organs in transplantation?
12:09 | What future research questions is the team most excited to pursue?
14:30 | What advice does Dr. Ferrari have for young scientists bridging engineering and medicine?
15:27 | Closing remarks

“Only You with the Universe” by Spøq, licensed via Tribe of Noise PRO. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://prosearch.tribeofnoise.com/artists/show/78252/44118 


Juliet Cruz and Maria Nikokavoura (Voice), Reena Corbane (Post-Production), Nika Abedian (Producer)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302510 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 957 1 222 full false Special Episode - Heart to Heart: Studying sex differences in heart diseases Special Episode - Heart to Heart: Studying sex differences in heart diseases Emily Wu from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Emilio Alarcón on the significance of sex differences in cardiovascular research. Dr. Alarcón is a professor at the University of Ottawa and a scientist at the Heart Institute whose research focuses on developing biomaterials for the regeneration of damaged tissues. In this episode, Dr. Alarcón comments on segments from a previous BEaTS interview between University of Ottawa student Deyanira Hernandez and Dr. Brian Aguado. Dr. Aguado is a professor at the University of California, San Diego, whose research focuses on using biomaterials to determine sex-specific mechanisms of heart diseases, namely aortic valve stenosis (AVS). This episode discusses the effects and significance of including sex differences in disease and biomaterial research.

Learn more:
Dr. Emilio Alarcón - https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-emilio-alarcon
                            

Dr. Brian Aguado - https://jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/people/profile/brian-aguado

0:03 | Topic introduction.
1:06 | BEaTS and host introduction.
1:28 | Introduction to Dr. Alarcón.
2:14 | Introduction to Dr. Aguado.
2:58 | The importance of studying biological sex in disease research (Dr. Aguado).
5:13 | The relevance of studying biological sex in biomaterial research (Dr. Alarcón).
7:40 | Precision medicine and sex-based research (Dr. Aguado).
9:07 | Addressing the potential unavailability of precision medicine (Dr. Alarcón).
11:08 | Considering other biological variables in future research (Dr. Alarcón).
14:22 | Concluding remarks.


Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR


Isra Omar (Producer, Post-production, Content generation), Bushra Pathan (Social media editor, Content generation), Malik Thomas (Writer, Content generation), Emily Wu (Host, Content generation).

]]> Emily Wu from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Emilio Alarcón on the significance of sex differences in cardiovascular research. Dr. Alarcón is a professor at the University of Ottawa and a scientist at the Heart Institute whose research focuses on developing biomaterials for the regeneration of damaged tissues. In this episode, Dr. Alarcón comments on segments from a previous BEaTS interview between University of Ottawa student Deyanira Hernandez and Dr. Brian Aguado. Dr. Aguado is a professor at the University of California, San Diego, whose research focuses on using biomaterials to determine sex-specific mechanisms of heart diseases, namely aortic valve stenosis (AVS). This episode discusses the effects and significance of including sex differences in disease and biomaterial research.

Learn more:
Dr. Emilio Alarcón - https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-emilio-alarcon
                            

Dr. Brian Aguado - https://jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/people/profile/brian-aguado

0:03 | Topic introduction.
1:06 | BEaTS and host introduction.
1:28 | Introduction to Dr. Alarcón.
2:14 | Introduction to Dr. Aguado.
2:58 | The importance of studying biological sex in disease research (Dr. Aguado).
5:13 | The relevance of studying biological sex in biomaterial research (Dr. Alarcón).
7:40 | Precision medicine and sex-based research (Dr. Aguado).
9:07 | Addressing the potential unavailability of precision medicine (Dr. Alarcón).
11:08 | Considering other biological variables in future research (Dr. Alarcón).
14:22 | Concluding remarks.


Soundtrack by The Underground Drive. All rights reserved. Listen more:
https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-underground-drive/1571062779
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4sCJG8TMQyTZ9FDd1JjJmR


Isra Omar (Producer, Post-production, Content generation), Bushra Pathan (Social media editor, Content generation), Malik Thomas (Writer, Content generation), Emily Wu (Host, Content generation).

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302495 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 899 1 221 full false Special Episode - Breast Cancer: Is the house mouse to blame? Special Episode - Breast Cancer: Is the house mouse to blame? As part of the TMM4950 Sci-Comm special episode, J.P. Doyle from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Alexandre Stewart, a distinguished scientist from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and a director of the Laboratory of Translational Genomics. In this episode, Dr. Stewart and J.P. discuss the viral origins of breast cancer, specifically the hypothesis that the Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV) may cause breast cancer in humans. They explored the "second hit" hypothesis, geographic variations in cancer incidence between Western and Eastern Europe, and the potential for future vaccines and anti-retroviral therapies to prevent and treat the disease.

Learn more about Dr. Stewart: https://www.ottawaheart.ca/profile/stewart-alexandre


Read more about the paper: https://doi.org/10.3390/v14030559

0:10 - Introduction to Dr. Alexandre Stewart and Breast Cancer
1:04 - Inspiration: The Biology of Breast Cancer and Immunosuppression
2:48 - Geographic Variation and the Migrant Effect
4:25 - Mechanisms: How MMTV and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) differ in causing cancer
7:05 - The Senegal Study: Globalization and Mouse Populations
10:22 - Vaccines and Anti-Retroviral Parallels
14:34 - Conclusion


Music Credit: This podcast episode features the song 'Documentary' by SigmaMusicArt (Mikhail Smusev) via Pixabay, available under the Pixabay Content License. Listen more:
https://pixabay.com/music/modern-classical-documentary-264400/


J.P. Doyle (Host, Content Writer), Barry Ngo (Producer, Editor, Promoter)

]]> As part of the TMM4950 Sci-Comm special episode, J.P. Doyle from the University of Ottawa interviews Dr. Alexandre Stewart, a distinguished scientist from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and a director of the Laboratory of Translational Genomics. In this episode, Dr. Stewart and J.P. discuss the viral origins of breast cancer, specifically the hypothesis that the Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV) may cause breast cancer in humans. They explored the "second hit" hypothesis, geographic variations in cancer incidence between Western and Eastern Europe, and the potential for future vaccines and anti-retroviral therapies to prevent and treat the disease.

Learn more about Dr. Stewart: https://www.ottawaheart.ca/profile/stewart-alexandre


Read more about the paper: https://doi.org/10.3390/v14030559

0:10 - Introduction to Dr. Alexandre Stewart and Breast Cancer
1:04 - Inspiration: The Biology of Breast Cancer and Immunosuppression
2:48 - Geographic Variation and the Migrant Effect
4:25 - Mechanisms: How MMTV and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) differ in causing cancer
7:05 - The Senegal Study: Globalization and Mouse Populations
10:22 - Vaccines and Anti-Retroviral Parallels
14:34 - Conclusion


Music Credit: This podcast episode features the song 'Documentary' by SigmaMusicArt (Mikhail Smusev) via Pixabay, available under the Pixabay Content License. Listen more:
https://pixabay.com/music/modern-classical-documentary-264400/


J.P. Doyle (Host, Content Writer), Barry Ngo (Producer, Editor, Promoter)

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18302477 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 896 1 220 full false Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Jaswant Guzder Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Jaswant Guzder In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Jaswant Guzder, an internationally renowned transcultural psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and visual artist. Our conversation will touch on her work at the intersection of child psychiatry, culture, and community-based mental health, drawing from her leadership roles in Montreal and Victoria, as well as her research and teaching projects in Jamaica and India. We’ll also reflect on how her South Asian heritage, artistic practice, and decades of clinical and academic experience shape her approach to healing, pedagogy, and global mental health.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu


]]> In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Jaswant Guzder, an internationally renowned transcultural psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and visual artist. Our conversation will touch on her work at the intersection of child psychiatry, culture, and community-based mental health, drawing from her leadership roles in Montreal and Victoria, as well as her research and teaching projects in Jamaica and India. We’ll also reflect on how her South Asian heritage, artistic practice, and decades of clinical and academic experience shape her approach to healing, pedagogy, and global mental health.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu


]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18094588 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 23:00:00 -0400 1330 1 219 full false Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Jesse Bump Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Jesse Bump In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Jesse Bump, whose research brings a historical and political economy lens to some of the most pressing challenges in global health. Drawing on history, social science, and policy analysis, Dr. Bump’s research spans local and global scales, offering insight into how societies understand and manage threats to public health.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

]]> In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Jesse Bump, whose research brings a historical and political economy lens to some of the most pressing challenges in global health. Drawing on history, social science, and policy analysis, Dr. Bump’s research spans local and global scales, offering insight into how societies understand and manage threats to public health.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18094560 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 23:00:00 -0400 1174 1 218 full false Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Jennifer Cleland Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Jennifer Cleland In this episode, we’ll be delving into the work of Professor Jennifer Cleland, a global leader whose work continues to challenge and expand the boundaries of healthcare education. Her work crosses boundaries in numerous ways, across fields (Health Economics, Medical Statistics, Language and Linguistics and Business), methodologies (big data sets and qualitative), institutions (government, universities), etc.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

]]> In this episode, we’ll be delving into the work of Professor Jennifer Cleland, a global leader whose work continues to challenge and expand the boundaries of healthcare education. Her work crosses boundaries in numerous ways, across fields (Health Economics, Medical Statistics, Language and Linguistics and Business), methodologies (big data sets and qualitative), institutions (government, universities), etc.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18094471 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 22:00:00 -0400 1269 1 217 full false Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Ahmed Rashid Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Ahmed Rashid Summary of Podcast Episode: In this episode we delve into Professor Ahmed's research and work at the intersection of medicine, global health, and education policy. Our conversation will focus on the role of power, politics, and inequities in shaping these fields. Together, we’ll explore how critical, and often uncomfortable, conversations can be fostered in ways that are constructive and innovative.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu


]]> Summary of Podcast Episode: In this episode we delve into Professor Ahmed's research and work at the intersection of medicine, global health, and education policy. Our conversation will focus on the role of power, politics, and inequities in shaping these fields. Together, we’ll explore how critical, and often uncomfortable, conversations can be fostered in ways that are constructive and innovative.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu


]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18087009 Mon, 27 Oct 2025 23:00:00 -0400 1343 1 216 full false Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Rashmi Kusurkar Special Episode: Bodies, Borders & Breakthroughs with Dr. Rashmi Kusurkar In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Rashmi Kusurkar, a leading scholar in health professions education whose research centers on the question: how do we develop “students for life”? Her work exists at the intersection of motivation theory, equity, and professional identity, spanning borders, disciplines, and cultures — from advancing Self-Determination Theory in education to addressing access, diversity, and inclusion in healthcare training.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

]]> In this episode, we’ll be exploring the work of Dr. Rashmi Kusurkar, a leading scholar in health professions education whose research centers on the question: how do we develop “students for life”? Her work exists at the intersection of motivation theory, equity, and professional identity, spanning borders, disciplines, and cultures — from advancing Self-Determination Theory in education to addressing access, diversity, and inclusion in healthcare training.

Learn more about Dr. Thirusha Naidu

https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/directory/dr-thirusha-naidu

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-18086683 Mon, 27 Oct 2025 22:00:00 -0400 1199 1 215 full false The science of sex differences: Building smarter biomaterials The science of sex differences: Building smarter biomaterials In this episode, Dr. Brian Aguado discusses the importance of incorporating sex differences research in cardiovascular science, emphasizing how biological variables influence disease progression and treatment outcomes. He highlights that recognizing these differences is key to designing biomaterials with improved performance and inclusivity, ultimately contributing to more effective and equitable healthcare solutions.

Learn more: https://jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/people/profile/brian-aguado 

Time stamps

2:20. Why is it important to study sex as a biological variable in this context, and how has it changed the way we understand disease?
6:40 One of the major challenges in biomedical research is designing experiments that truly reflect sex differences. What have been some of the biggest obstacles you have encountered in your work?
10.:20 How do you envision your work on sex-specific biomaterials contributing to more personalized or equitable cardiovascular therapies in the future?
14:02 For young scientists listening to this podcast, what advice would you give to someone interested in integrating sex differences into their own research?

]]> In this episode, Dr. Brian Aguado discusses the importance of incorporating sex differences research in cardiovascular science, emphasizing how biological variables influence disease progression and treatment outcomes. He highlights that recognizing these differences is key to designing biomaterials with improved performance and inclusivity, ultimately contributing to more effective and equitable healthcare solutions.

Learn more: https://jacobsschool.ucsd.edu/people/profile/brian-aguado 

Time stamps

2:20. Why is it important to study sex as a biological variable in this context, and how has it changed the way we understand disease?
6:40 One of the major challenges in biomedical research is designing experiments that truly reflect sex differences. What have been some of the biggest obstacles you have encountered in your work?
10.:20 How do you envision your work on sex-specific biomaterials contributing to more personalized or equitable cardiovascular therapies in the future?
14:02 For young scientists listening to this podcast, what advice would you give to someone interested in integrating sex differences into their own research?

]]> BEaTS Research Radio Buzzsprout-17902102 Wed, 24 Sep 2025 20:00:00 -0400 1149 1 214 full false