This episode of Absolute Gene-ius slithers into the surprising science of invasive species monitoring with Dr. Brian Bahder. A childhood love of bugs led Brian to a dynamic career in entomology and plant pathology—and eventually to tracking large reptiles in the swamps of Florida.

We dive deep into Brian’s work developing multiplex digital PCR assays to detect DNA from snakes, caimans, and other invasive species using environmental samples like soil and water. He explains how this technology enables detection even after the animals are gone, and how sampling strategy, environmental variables, and experimental design are critical to getting reliable data. He also compares qPCR and digital PCR, emphasizing how each has its place depending on sensitivity, speed, and sample complexity.

In the career corner, Brian shares how his academic journey was shaped by travel, risk-taking, and a healthy dose of failure. From surfing and skateboarding to discovering new species and running a diagnostic clinic, his path reminds us that science thrives on curiosity—and that even mistakenly detecting your own DNA can teach you something.

Visit the Absolute Gene-ius pageto learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Absolute Q Digital PCR System.

Ever thought about why medications work differently for different people? In this episode of Absolute Gene-ius, we explore the exciting field of pharmacogenomics with Wendy Wang, pharmacogenetic laboratory supervisor at Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. Wendy shares how genetics can influence drug metabolism, offering a glimpse into how precision medicine can revolutionize healthcare by tailoring treatments based on an individual's unique genetic makeup.

At the heart of Wendy’s research is CYP2D6, a cytochrome P450 enzyme responsible for metabolizing around 20% of all prescribed medications. She explains how her lab uses digital PCR to analyze copy number variations (CNV), offering a reliable and precise method to predict drug metabolism. Wendy dives into the complexities of structural variants, the role of digital PCR in enhancing assay efficiency, and why pharmacogenomics is a critical piece of the precision medicine puzzle. Her use of delightful metaphors—like comparing genetic testing to ladling soup—makes complex science both relatable and engaging.

In the Career Corner, Wendy opens up about her winding path to molecular biology, which included studying classical antiquity and nearly pursuing a career in history. She emphasizes the importance of resilience in research, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, and encourages budding scientists to reach out to mentors and explore diverse interests. Plus, hear about her most embarrassing lab mishap (hint: it involves a fire alarm) and the proud moment of publishing her first, first-author paper.

Visit the Absolute Gene-ius page to learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Absolute Q Digital PCR System.

Scientific discovery happens in the lab—but it starts with curiosity and determination. In this episode of Absolute Gene-ius, we welcome Valeria Rangel, a PhD candidate at the University of California Irvine, who shares her research on acute lymphoblastic leukemia and the innovative ways digital PCR is helping uncover genetic patterns linked to cancer in Hispanic populations.

Val’s work focuses on Philadelphia chromosome-like (Ph-like) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. She explains how her lab uses digital PCR to detect mutations with high precision, identify risk factors in certain populations, and even validate findings using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. Through her research, Val sheds light on the role of SNPs, methylation patterns, and translocations in leukemia progression—demonstrating how digital PCR is transforming the way we approach cancer research.

Beyond the science, Val takes us on her personal journey, from struggling to break into research due to financial barriers to finding her passion in oncology. In this episode’s Career Corner, she shares valuable advice for aspiring scientists, tips for landing research opportunities, and some of her most hilarious and humbling lab moments (yes, she has broken multiple pipettes).

Visit the Absolute Gene-ius pageto learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Absolute Q Digital PCR System.