Ologies with Alie Ward Systems Biology (MEDICAL MATHEMATICS) with Emily E. Ackerman
Aug 3, 2021
Dr. Emily E. Ackerman is a systems biologist with a PhD in chemical engineering, focusing on the immune system and infectious diseases. In this engaging conversation, she reveals how her research evolved during the pandemic and her struggles with Excel. Emily passionately advocates for inclusivity in STEM, discussing the challenges faced by disabled scientists. She also explores the ethics of CRISPR, the use of engineered viruses in cancer treatment, and the intricate balance of chaos in biological systems. Plus, hear about a certain kind-hearted individual named Doug!
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Path to Systems Biology
- Emily Ackerman chose chemical engineering because she liked chemistry and math.
- She later realized she was more interested in biology and transitioned her focus.
Systems Biology Explained
- Systems biology uses large datasets to understand complex biological systems.
- It combines experiments with mathematical models and algorithms to gain insights.
COVID-19 Research Pivot
- Emily Ackerman shifted her research from influenza to COVID-19 during her PhD.
- This involved applying her existing network study methods to the novel virus.