Ep. 47: Advancing Research On the Human Brain With Paola Arlotta

Women across all industries need more female mentors and role models, and perhaps nowhere is that more imperative than in the field of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). When we have more women in STEM, there’s a ripple effect — scientific and financial outcomes for women are improved across the board. 

The good news is that more women than ever are choosing career paths in the field. Paola Arlotta, a neurobiologist and stem cell scientist at Harvard University, is one of the women paving the way for other female scientists. She's showing that it’s possible to run a lab and raise a family at the same time, and this week she shares insight into her career and her work.

Takeaways:

• Brain organoids are tiny pieces of brain tissue that are made in a lab from stem cells. They can be used to study the development of the human brain and understand neurological diseases.
• Brain organoids have the potential to revolutionize drug development and personalized medicine. 
• There are many different ways to be successful in science, and it's important to find your own path.
• Having diverse role models is crucial for inspiring and empowering women in science.
• Balancing a career in science with family life requires support and collaboration.
• Advancements in technology and data analysis will lead to a leap forward in drug development and disease understanding.

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:33 - Paolo Arlotta's Background and Decision to Pursue Science

00:06:24 - The Process and Significance of Creating Brain Organoids

00:10:25 - The Potential of Brain Organoids in Understanding and Treating Diseases

00:22:01 - Women in Science

00:28:12 - Challenges of Balancing Career and Family

00:31:01 - Role Models and Mentorship

00:34:52 - Lightning Round Questions

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