Discovering Academia

#044 - Vladan Babovic: Water Management & Hydroinformatics in Singapore

Today we talk with Vladan Babovic, a professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the National University of Singapore. His work focuses on hydroinformatics, the development of water management through information technology and tools like AI and machine learning. In this episode we discuss the unique challenges that Singapore faces in regard to water risk and how the small nation state is a pioneering model for water issues globally. Babovic explains Singapore's flooding management systems, the concept of blue-green infrastructure, and the impacts of climate change on water concerns, stressing the urgency for inventive solutions amidst evolving environmental conditions.
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.
 

#043 - Danwei Huang: Coral Reefs, Bleaching & Marine Conservation

Today, we talk with Danwei Huang, an associate professor in the Department of Biological Science at the National University of Singapore. His work focuses on the ecology, evolution, and conservation of coral reefs, aiming to uncover insights into their overall health.
In this episode, we explore the human-induced factors affecting reefs, including coastal urbanization and reclamation projects, and their complex impact on coral reefs. Despite the challenges posed by rising sea surface temperatures and massive bleaching events, Danwei shares an optimistic view on the resilience of coral reefs.
Emphasizing the critical role of collaborative data collection and the power of local initiatives in addressing a global issue, Danwei underscores the importance of community engagement in coral reef conservation.
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

#042 - David Teh: Contemporary, Modern, & Southeast Asian Art

Today we talk with David Teh, writer, curator and assistant professor in the English department at the National University of Singapore. His work spans a variety of topics within the art world, from modern and contemporary Asian art, critical art theory and history, to curatorship and exhibitions. In this episode we discuss the balancing act between the art world and academia, the difficulties of attaching language to art, and seek to better define “contemporary art”. Additionally, we talk about the influence of government and wealth on art markets and exposure and the importance of institutions in art dissemination. In a world dominated by short format video clips, Professor Teh encourages the audience to take more pride in their visual literacy and understand the traps and tricks that might be influencing us.
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.
 

#041 - Henry Yeung: Geography of Corporations, Supply Chains, & Semiconductors

Today we talk with Henry Yeung, Distinguished Professor in the Department of Geography at the National University of Singapore. His work focuses on global production networks, in which he seeks to understand the relationship and dynamics of goods at various stages of production around the world from raw materials to end product. In this episode we talk in depth about the interconnectedness of various production networks with bases in Asia, from semiconductors to Apple iPhones. More broadly, Henry explains the historical conditions that led to Asia’s export oriented economic boom in the 60s and how that has shaped the globalization of industry today. As we wrap up, Henry shares his preference towards explanatory theories of geography which are tied together with real examples and offer a seemingly more realistic view of the world.
 
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

#040 - Peter Sahlins: French History, National Identity & Animal Symbolism

Today we talk with Peter Sahlins, Professor Emeritus in the Department of History at UC Berkeley who now lives in Burgundy, France. His research looks at a variety of topics in European history from social and legal histories of nationality law and citizenship to animal-human relations and ancient paintings. The first part of the episode we talk in depth about his work on boundaries, and national identity. The second half of the episode we focus on Peter’s work on animal-human relations from pigs standing trial for murder to Louis the 14th’s grand Zoo. As we wrap up, Professor Sahlins sheds light on the “death of humanities” in American universities and how crucial it is that students develop critical thinking skills in their learning journey. 
 
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

#039 - Giuseppe Ugazio: Neuroeconomics, Blended Finance & AI in the Future of Philanthropy

In the latest episode of Discovering Academia, we're joined by Giuseppe Ugazio, an expert in Behavioral Philanthropy from the University of Geneva. Delve into a fascinating conversation with Professor Ugazio as he explores the intersection of moral philosophy, neuroeconomics, and behavioral science in philanthropy. He offers deep insights into how we value human lives and money, highlighting the intricate dynamics between philanthropic initiatives and profit-driven partnerships. Get a glimpse into the future of philanthropy with Professor Ugazio's pioneering work on an AI-driven model for personalized philanthropy, aimed at aligning individuals with causes they deeply care about. Plus, hear how his background in philosophy has shaped his multifaceted career and his views on the importance of contributing to societal welfare. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode!
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

#038 - Bouke van Gorp: Cultural Geography, Media & Our Place in the Built Environment

Bouke van Gorp is a Professor of Geosciences at Utrecht University in the Netherlands.  Her research focuses on Human Geography, Spatial Planning, and Geographic Education. In this episode, we talk about how geography helps us understand the world and its interconnectedness. We also discuss how the study of geography helps individual regions maintain their identities, as well as the role of media outlets in shaping our understanding of a given region. Professor Van Gorp explains how she is trying to expand geographical education to get students directly involved in the subject matter and shares the crucial role of a strong geographical perspective in our ever-globalized world. 
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

#037 - Silvia Mihaila: Organ-On-Chip Technology & The Future of Medicine

Today we talked with Silvia Mihaila, Professor of Pharmacology at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. Her research focus lies in developing organ-on-chip models. These advanced in vitro systems can mimic the structure and function of many different organs. By utilizing these models, researchers can study specific biological processes without relying on animal experimentation, while also integrating multiple components of human physiology. Silvia and her team are particularly interested in studying chronic kidney disease and its impact on other organs in the body.
 
In this episode, we talk all about her organ-on-chip research, the need for standardization & validation with these models, and the overall potential for regenerative medicine and how she is partnering with clinicians to better address the true needs of the people. 
 
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

#036 - Aneesh Raghunandan: ESG Scores, Greenwashing & Corporate Misconduct

Explore the world of environmental, social, governance in finance with Professor Aneesh Raghunandan on the latest episode of Discovering Academia. In this discussion, we delve into the nuances of ESG in financial institutions, covering its emergence, outcomes, and more. Discover the truth about ESG funds, including their tendency to underperform, impact on carbon emissions and profit, and the persistent issue of corporate misconduct. Additionally, we talk about verification, data manipulation, and transparency in ESG scores. This episode is perfect for students and finance enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of ESG. Listen now!
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.

#035 - Galit Ashkenazi-Golan: Game Theory & AI Price Collusion

Join us as we dive into the world of Game Theory and Artificial Intelligence with Professor Galit Ashkenazi Golan from the London School of Economics.
In this episode, we explore the fundamentals of game theory and how it has evolved. We also discuss the profound impact of artificial intelligence on game theory models, addressing questions about its influence on corporate pricing strategies, its implications for antitrust laws, and the responsibility for AI training data. Professor Golan shares her insights on the ethical implications of the "moral arms race" for AI superintelligence and the potential for both positive and negative impacts of AI on our future.
Tune in to this thought-provoking discussion that sheds light on the intersection of game theory and AI.
 
 
This presentation is a service of Discovering Academia, and all information presented is for commercial and informational purposes only.  Discovering Academia provides no assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented and possesses no actual knowledge of any topic presented. Any opinions expressed in this presentation are solely attributed to each individual asserting the same and do not reflect the opinion of Discovering Academia.