Science Friday

The Leap: Everything Else Is Boring

9 snips
Jul 7, 2025
Karmella Haynes, a pioneering researcher in synthetic biology and epigenetics, shares her unique journey in engineering molecular machines to combat cancer cell growth. She discusses her creative approach to presenting research and the significant early results in enhancing tumor suppressor gene functions. Karmella, along with her colleague David Katz, addresses the interdisciplinary challenges and biases in science, particularly for women and minorities. Personal anecdotes reveal how her upbringing shaped her bold pursuit of innovation in a traditionally unwelcoming field.
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ANECDOTE

Live-Painted Scientific Poster

  • Karmella Haynes painted her scientific poster live at a conference instead of using a standard printed version.
  • She used a stretched canvas and paints, creating an engaging and unique presentation of her research.
INSIGHT

Pioneering Synthetic Biology & Epigenetics

  • Karmella Haynes combines epigenetics and synthetic biology to engineer molecular machines controlling gene expression.
  • This pioneering mashup is a rare and challenging scientific frontier with broad applications, including cancer research.
ANECDOTE

Carmella's Childhood Curiosity

  • Carmella excelled as a child, painting detailed portraits and solving complex puzzles like crossword puzzles and algebra proofs.
  • She was often introspective and fascinated by patterns in nature, showing early traits of a scientist.
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