Dr. Kristin Patrick, an Assistant Professor studying innate immune regulation, and Dr. Robert Watson, an Associate Professor focused on bacterial infections, delve into the dynamics of immunity and mentorship. They discuss gasdermin D's role in cell death during tuberculosis and how their joint lab enhances collaborative research. Insights on immune gene variations connected to Black Death survival reveal links to modern health. They explore their personal experiences and challenges of balancing life and science, advocating for teamwork in academia.