Episode 82: An Interview with Robert Malkin on Academic Research for High School Students
May 9, 2024
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Guest Robert Malkin discusses empowering education to prevent human trafficking, experiential programs for students in global health, financial opportunities for high school research, and guidance on research experience for students and educators.
Engineering World Health trains college students to repair medical equipment, improving healthcare services.
IRI platform connects high school students with research opportunities, fostering valuable experiences.
Deep dives
Dr. Rob Malkin's Varied Background and Career Trajectory
Dr. Rob Malkin, a professor at Duke University and founder of various educational initiatives, shared his unconventional journey from electrical engineering to biomedical engineering due to a faculty member's encouragement. He detailed experiences in designing medical devices like pacemakers and defibrillators, coupled with teaching English in Thailand. This diverse background led him to establish impactful programs like Engineering World Health to train students in repairing medical equipment and prevent human trafficking.
Creating Experiential Learning Opportunities for Students
Dr. Malkin discussed his initiative, Engineering World Health, which provides training for college students to repair medical equipment in local hospitals, significantly enhancing healthcare services. He also highlighted the Global Public Service Academies, offering high school students basic clinical skills to serve remote communities effectively. These programs aim to address healthcare challenges and empower students to make a positive impact globally.
Financial Aid and the International Research Institute of North Carolina (IRI)
Dr. Malkin emphasized the financial aid available for students participating in programs like Engineering World Health to ensure equitable opportunities. He elaborated on IRI, a platform connecting high school students with research opportunities with supportive faculty mentors. Despite its accidental inception during the pandemic, IRI helps students from freshmen in high school to college engage in research and gain valuable experiences.