In this episode of Speaking of Mol Bio, Dr. Cath Moore of the Australian Genome Research Facility (AGRF) discusses how molecular biology technologies are helping to shape Australia’s scientific landscape—from clinical genomics and conservation to bioremediation and agriculture. With over 20 years of experience in both academia and industry, Dr. Moore reflects on the remarkable evolution of genomic tools, from Sanger sequencing to high-resolution spatial multiomics.

She unpacks AGRF’s mission to democratize access to emerging technologies and highlights its role as an early adopter of platforms that help scientists translate academic research into real-world impact. Topics include non-mass spec proteomics, mine site rehabilitation through soil microbiome analysis, and the role of systems biology in modern science.

Dr. Moore also discusses the importance of community education and literacy around genomics, emphasizing how public understanding is key to the safe adoption of emerging technologies like synthetic biology. Finally, she shares career insights and advice for aspiring scientists: stay curious, stay broad, and don’t be afraid to pivot when your work no longer brings joy.

Subscribe to get future episodes as they drop and if you like what you’re hearing we hope you’ll share a review or recommend the series to a colleague. 

Visit the Invitrogen School of Molecular Biology to access helpful molecular biology resources and educational content, and please share this resource with anyone you know working in molecular biology.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

In this Mol Bio Minutes episode, Laurynas Alijošius breaks down how to run fast PCR to save time and increase lab efficiency. He explains how to choose the right thermal cycler with fast ramp speeds, select low-volume and thin-walled PCR plastics, and use engineered DNA polymerases that offer rapid elongation and hot-start capability. Laurynas also covers practical tips for optimizing reaction components, shortening cycling protocols, and reducing waste. Whether you’re aiming to finish your experiment before dinner or streamline your workflow long-term, this episode delivers everything you need to master the art of fast PCR.

Helpful resource links mentioned in this episode:

• Molecular biology handbook – An extensive resource for all things molecular biology
• Applied Biosystems thermal cyclers – Including those that support fast PCR
• PCR consumables – Four key attributes to consider
• PCR plastics selection tool – Find the right plastics for your instrument and fast PCR
• DNA polymerases – Four key characteristics to know and consider
• PCR setup optimization – Six critical things to optimize for optimal PCR results
• Enzymes and master mixes – Get the right reagents to drive your PCR reaction
• Cycling optimization – Instrument considerations for PCR success

Subscribe to get future episodes as they drop and if you like what you’re hearing we hope you’ll share a review or recommend the series to a colleague. 

Visit the Invitrogen School of Molecular Biology to access helpful molecular biology resources and educational content, and please share this resource with anyone you know working in molecular biology.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

This episode teaches that innovation is born at the intersection of curiosity and persistence. Dr. Gudrun Stengel, co-founder and CEO of Alida Biosciences, reveals how her startup is transforming the landscape of RNA research through a novel technology called proximity barcoding. Dr. Stengel’s story exemplifies the power of entrepreneurial spirit in driving scientific discovery, offering a glimpse into how one idea can reshape an entire field.

At Alida Biosciences, Dr. Stengel and her team are pioneering new tools for detecting RNA modifications, a largely unexplored realm of epigenetics. Using their proximity barcoding platform, researchers can read multiple RNA modifications simultaneously, uncovering potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes. This technology bridges a critical gap in multiomics, allowing scientists to dive deeper into how epigenetic changes influence gene expression and cellular behavior.

Beyond the lab, Dr. Stengel shares her experience as a first-time founder, balancing scientific rigor with startup life. From managing a team to fundraising, her journey underscores the importance of resilience, optimism, and maintaining a long-term vision. She also offers valuable advice for budding scientists, encouraging them to embrace challenges and remain persistent in the face of setbacks.

Subscribe to get future episodes as they drop and if you like what you’re hearing we hope you’ll share a review or recommend the series to a colleague. 

Visit the Invitrogen School of Molecular Biology to access helpful molecular biology resources and educational content, and please share this resource with anyone you know working in molecular biology.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.