Discovering Academia

#007 - Ian Korf: Genetics as the Book of Life & Why You Shouldn’t Get an A+

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Professor Ian Korf, a leading expert in genomics and bioinformatics research and education. Ian is passionate about understanding the information flow from genotype to phenotype and has made significant contributions to the field through his work at UC Davis.
In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of genomics and explore the concept of DNA as a language. Ian shares his insights on the interdisciplinary nature of his lab and the important role it plays in advancing our understanding of genetics. 
Throughout the episode, Ian emphasizes the importance of collaboration and creativity in scientific research, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the field of genomics. We also discuss the perils of perfectionism and why Ian believes that striving for an A+ can actually hold us back.
Whether you're a seasoned expert or simply interested in learning more about genomics and bioinformatics, this episode is sure to offer fascinating insights and perspectives that will inspire and inform. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Professor Ian Korf.
 
 
 
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 possess 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.

#006 - Zachary Psick: Mass Incarceration & Reversing the School to Prison Pipeline

Join us for a powerful conversation with doctoral candidate Zachary Psick from the Department of Sociology at UC Davis. With a focus on the causes and consequences of crime and punishment, Zachary is an emerging voice in the fight for criminal justice reform. In this episode, Zachary shares his inspiring story of going from being incarcerated to becoming a renowned researcher and co-founder of the Underground Scholars Initiative at UC Davis.
We explore the history of mass incarceration in the United States, examining the wide-scale failures that led us to our current system. Zachary shares his insights on the impacts of the wars on drugs and crime, and the disproportionate impact that these policies have had on marginalized communities. We also discuss potential solutions and reforms that can help to address the systemic issues at play in our criminal justice system.
Throughout the episode, Zachary draws on his own personal experiences to shed light on the complexities of the criminal justice system and the need for reform. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just beginning to learn about these important issues, this episode is sure to offer fascinating insights and perspectives that will inspire and inform. Don't miss this powerful conversation with Zachary Psick.
 
 
 
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 possess 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.

#005 - Stavros Vougioukas: Agricultural Robotics for Specialty Crops

Join us for an engaging conversation with Professor Stavros Vougioukas, the Department Vice Chair of Biological and Agricultural Engineering at UC Davis. As a leading expert in the field of mechanization and automation for specialty crops, Dr. Vougioukas is at the forefront of using robotics to revolutionize agriculture.
In this episode, we delve into the exciting possibilities and challenges of using robots to locate and pick fruit efficiently, as well as developing shake-and-catch harvesting systems to prevent fall damage. Dr. Vougioukas' research focuses on the design, development, and testing of actuators, sensors, and control systems for optimal management of inputs and products.
As the recipient of the UC Davis College of Engineering Outstanding Junior Faculty Award in 2016, Dr. Vougioukas' work is making a significant impact in the field of agriculture. We explore the design process for robots and the challenges of implementing these technologies at a wide scale.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the exciting possibilities of using robotics in agriculture and the important work being done to make it a reality.
 
 
 
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 possess 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.

#004 - Giovanni Peri: Economics of Global Migration & Successful Integration of Migrants

Join us for an insightful conversation with Giovanni Peri, a Professor of Economics and the Director of the Global Migration Center at UC Davis. As a leading expert on human migration, Dr. Peri brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the discussion.
In this episode, we explore the multifaceted issues surrounding human migration, including the reasons people choose to migrate, the factors that contribute to successful migration, and the role of immigration in American culture. Dr. Peri's research analyzes migration from social, economic, legal, and demographic perspectives, providing a nuanced understanding of this complex topic.
As an accomplished scholar, Dr. Peri sits on the editorial board of several academic journals in Economics and has received grants from international organizations like the World Bank and the National Science Foundation. He also regularly publishes in top media outlets, bringing his research to a wider audience.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the intricate issues related to human migration and the critical role it plays in our society.
 
Correction in Intro: Dr. Peri is the former Department Chair of Economics, holding the position from 2015-2019
 
 
 
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 possess 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.

#003 - Tina Rulli: Moral Duty to Adopt, Race & Genetics, & Pro-Life Anti Vaxxers

Join us for a thought provoking conversation with Associate Professor Tina Rulli, a prominent figure in the field of normative and applied ethics, with a particular focus on reproductive and population ethics. With a PhD from Yale University and postdoctoral training at the NIH Bioethics Department, Professor Rulli brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our conversation.
We explore a range of compelling topics throughout the episode, starting with the ethics of adoption and procreation. Professor Rulli offers insights on the moral implications of bringing new lives into the world, and the ethical considerations involved in adoption. We then delve into the controversial issues of anti-vaxxers and abortion rights, examining the ethical questions that arise in these contexts and considering different arguments and perspectives.
Finally, we discuss the use of race in genomics and the ethical implications of this practice. Professor Rulli sheds light on the complex intersection of genetics, race, and identity, and the ethical questions that arise as we seek to better understand these relationships.
Throughout the episode, we also touch on the importance of crafting strong arguments and considering opposing viewpoints, highlighting the critical role that philosophy and ethics play in our understanding of complex issues. Whether you're a seasoned philosopher or simply interested in exploring complex ethical questions, this episode is sure to offer fascinating insights and perspectives that will challenge and inspire.
 
 
 
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 possess 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.

#002 - Randi Hagerman: Genetic Disorders, Fragile X Syndrome & Discovering FXTAS

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Randi Hagerman, the Medical Director of the UC Davis MIND Institute, a world-renowned research center focused on the study of neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Hagerman is an acclaimed expert in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as Fragile X syndrome and autism.
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of neurodevelopmental disorders and their impact on individuals and families. Dr. Hagerman shares her insights on Fragile X and FXTAS syndrome, and explains the difference between phenotypes and genotypes. We also explore the question of whether our genetics define who we are.
As one of the top female scientists in the world, Dr. Hagerman's expertise and contributions to clinical research have made a significant impact on our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these conditions and the groundbreaking work being done to address them.
 
 
 
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 possess 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.

#001 - Simon Sadler: Accumulation of the Artificial & the Dance of Life

Join us for an insightful conversation with Simon Sadler, the Chair of the Design Department at UC Davis. As a leading expert in the field of design, Simon shares his thoughts on the role of design in shaping our collective and individual identities, and explores alternative approaches for the future.
In this episode, we delve into a variety of thought-provoking topics, including the definition of design, the resurgence of countercultural movements, and the delicate balance between maintaining control and letting go. With his expertise in history and theory of architecture, design, and urbanism, Simon provides unique insights into the power of design and its impact on our daily lives.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the complex world of design and its influence on our past, present, and future.
 
 
 
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 possess 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.

#000 - Brent & Keller: What is Discovering Academia?

Join co-hosts Brent Valentine and Keller Kramer as they discuss the genesis of the Discovering Academia podcast and their aspirations for its future. This informal conversation delves into the essence of Discovering Academia as both a podcast and a larger entity. They also share their vision for the show and the impact they hope it will have on the academic community. In the latter half of the episode, special guest Tom Neill, the artist behind Discovering Academia's iconic artwork, provides insight into his creative process and the inspiration behind the podcast's visual identity. Tune in to this precursor episode to learn more about the origins of Discovering Academia and get a sneak peek into what's to come.