Lex Fridman Podcast #105 – Robert Langer: Edison of Medicine
Jun 30, 2020
Robert Langer, a renowned MIT professor and a towering figure in biotechnology, shares insights into his groundbreaking work in drug delivery systems and tissue engineering. He discusses the thrilling journey of drug discovery and its emotional highs and lows. Langer reveals his secrets for innovative thinking, the complexities of launching successful biotech startups, and the critical role of mentorship in shaping the next generation of scientists. He also touches on the intersection of science and magic, highlighting creativity in both fields.
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Invisible Pack
- Bob Langer enjoys a magic trick called the invisible pack.
- It involves a spectator shuffling an imaginary deck and selecting a card, which Langer reveals from a real deck in his pocket.
Early Rejections
- Langer's early work with Judah Folkman on blood vessel inhibitors faced initial rejection.
- One paper was rejected by Nature but accepted by Science, while another followed the opposite path.
Think Big
- Pursue big, world-changing ideas, not incremental ones.
- Exposure to inspiring figures and recognizing impactful ideas are key.
