Genetically Speaking ASHG Digital Programs

In this episode, host Eli Roberson, PhD, interviews Daphne Martschenko, PhD, an assistant professor at the Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics. Dr. Martschenko discusses her unconventional career path, leading to her current focus on the social and ethical implications of human genetic and genomic research. The conversation touches on the intersection of genetics and education, particularly examining how genomics research intersects with societal narratives, racial disparities, and historical beliefs. The discussion also highlights the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in scientific studies, emphasizing the need to consider diverse perspectives in the design, conduct, and communication of research.

In this episode, host Eli Roberson, PhD, has a conversation with Wylie Burke, MD, PhD, a professor at the Department of Bioethics and Humanities at the University of Washington. Dr. Burke, with a background in genetics and medicine, shares insights into her career journey, emphasizing the intersection of genetics, medicine, and bioethics. The episode explores her interests in the equitable use of genetic information, the impact of social determinants on health, and how inclusivity informs and changes genetics and research for the better.

In the second half of the episode, Eli Roberson, PhD and Barbara Harrison, MS, CGC discuss the historical disparities in healthcare access for underrepresented minority communities, particularly in the context of precision health and genetic counseling. Harrison emphasizes the need for genetic counselors to be sensitive to cultural backgrounds and the need for building trust with communities that have experienced historical healthcare injustices. 

In this episode, host Eli Roberson, PhD interviews Barbara Harrison, MS, CGC, a genetic counselor working at Howard University in Washington, D.C. The conversation delves into her education as well as the influences that lead to her career in genetic counseling. The episode also explores diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in genetics and genomics with Genetic Counselor Harrison's insights on how to make a meaningful impact in advisory roles. She also talks about her role in co-founding the Genetics Opportunities Learning Development and Empowerment Network (GOLDEN).

In this episode, host Eli Roberson, PhD interviews Farren Briggs, PhD, ScM, an associate professor at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Dr. Briggs shares insights into his career journey, discussing his upbringing in Belize, his initial interest in science, and the evolution of his academic path from basic science research to epidemiology. Their conversation delves into the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the scientific community, emphasizing the need to celebrate individuality, provide equal opportunities, and foster a sense of community. 

In the second part of the interview, Luciani Carvalho, MD, PhD discusses challenges related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in medicine. She emphasizes the importance of role models in overcoming obstacles, particularly for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Dr. Carvalho shares her experiences navigating these issues at the hospital and university, as well as her role as a mentor and the satisfaction of supporting students facing challenges.