WeScience Podcast

WeScience Podcast
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WeScience Podcast brings you inspiring conversations with world-leading scientists—from the lab bench to the global stage. Each episode dives into the personal stories, ground-breaking discoveries, and bold visions shaping our future. Whether you're a curious mind, a student, or a seasoned researcher, WeScience offers a fresh, accessible look at the human side of science. No jargon, just real talk. Join us on this 45-minute journey to discover what drives today’s brightest minds—and how science is changing the world around us. Tune in, get inspired and stay curious.

  1. 12/09/2025

    Episode 8 (AUDIO ONLY): Ovarian Cancer, Science Engagement and Women's Health by Dr Amy Wilson

    Summary In this episode, Dr. Amy Wilson shares her journey as an ovarian cancer researcher, discussing her motivations and challenges, the complexities of ovarian cancer, and the challenges faced in the field. She highlights the importance of immunotherapy, the role of leader cells in chemoresistance, and the potential of drug repurposing. Dr. Wilson also emphasizes the need for better communication between scientists and the community, the significance of research foundations in funding, the importance of patient involvement in science, and the challenges that women face in heathcare system. The conversation concludes with a call to action for participation in Frocktober, a campaign to raise awareness for ovarian cancer. Keywords: Ovarian cancer, immunotherapy, drug repurposing, cancer research, women's health, ovarian cancer foundation, leader cells, science communication, hereditary cancer, research funding. Takeaways: Curiosity drives scientific inquiry from a young age. Personal experiences can shape one's career path in science. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage, complicating treatment. Immunotherapy has not been as successful in ovarian cancer as in other cancers. Leader cells contribute to chemotherapy resistance and disease recurrence. Drug repurposing can be a cost-effective strategy in cancer treatment. Effective science communication is crucial for public understanding. Research foundations play a vital role in funding innovative cancer research. Collaboration between scientists and the community enhances research impact. Diversity in science is essential for addressing health inequities. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Ovarian Cancer Research 01:39 Curiosity drives Science 03:21 Link between Music and Science 06:30 Transitioning to Ovarian Cancer Research 09:07 Understanding Ovarian Cancer 12:16 Types and Prognosis of Ovarian Cancer 14:53 Inherited Ovarian and Breast Cancer 16:55 Postdoctoral Research on Leader Cells 20:12 Mechanisms of Metastasis and Treatment Resistance 23:40 Immunotherapy Challenges in Ovarian Cancer 27:43 Drug Repurposing in Cancer Treatment 30:56 Lessons from Failures in Research 32:50 Impact of Research on Community and Transition to Advocacy 34:58 Navigating Research Challenges 35:56 The Critical Role of Research Foundations 39:13 Bridging the Gap Between Research and Patients 41:15 Communicating Science Effectively 43:16 Communicating Science through Social Media and Frocktober 45:28 Advocacy and the Importance of Community 49:31 Key Factors for Success in Her Scientific Career 50:51 Challenges Faced by Women in Science 51:36 Passion for Women's Health Advocacy 55:00 Advice for Junior Scientists 56:23 Frocktober: Raising Awareness for Ovarian Cancer Music: “Wescience Podcast Intro” Artist: Wescience Podcast Composer: Carlos Aya Bonilla © 2025 Carlos Aya — All rights reserved.Available in Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram and Tik Tok with @WeSciencePodcast handle. Website: www.drcarlosayabonilla.com

    59 min

  2. 12/09/2025

    Episode 8: Ovarian Cancer, Science Engagement and Women's Health by Dr Amy Wilson

    Summary In this episode, Dr. Amy Wilson shares her journey as an ovarian cancer researcher, discussing her motivations and challenges, the complexities of ovarian cancer, and the challenges faced in the field. She highlights the importance of immunotherapy, the role of leader cells in chemoresistance, and the potential of drug repurposing. Dr. Wilson also emphasizes the need for better communication between scientists and the community, the significance of research foundations in funding, the importance of patient involvement in science, and the challenges that women face in heathcare system. The conversation concludes with a call to action for participation in Frocktober, a campaign to raise awareness for ovarian cancer. Keywords: Ovarian cancer, immunotherapy, drug repurposing, cancer research, women's health, ovarian cancer foundation, leader cells, science communication, hereditary cancer, research funding. Takeaways: Curiosity drives scientific inquiry from a young age. Personal experiences can shape one's career path in science. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage, complicating treatment. Immunotherapy has not been as successful in ovarian cancer as in other cancers. Leader cells contribute to chemotherapy resistance and disease recurrence. Drug repurposing can be a cost-effective strategy in cancer treatment. Effective science communication is crucial for public understanding. Research foundations play a vital role in funding innovative cancer research. Collaboration between scientists and the community enhances research impact. Diversity in science is essential for addressing health inequities. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Ovarian Cancer Research 01:39 Curiosity drives Science 03:21 Link between Music and Science 06:30 Transitioning to Ovarian Cancer Research 09:07 Understanding Ovarian Cancer 12:16 Types and Prognosis of Ovarian Cancer 14:53 Inherited Ovarian and Breast Cancer 16:55 Postdoctoral Research on Leader Cells 20:12 Mechanisms of Metastasis and Treatment Resistance 23:40 Immunotherapy Challenges in Ovarian Cancer 27:43 Drug Repurposing in Cancer Treatment 30:56 Lessons from Failures in Research 32:50 Impact of Research on Community and Transition to Advocacy 34:58 Navigating Research Challenges 35:56 The Critical Role of Research Foundations 39:13 Bridging the Gap Between Research and Patients 41:15 Communicating Science Effectively 43:16 Communicating Science through Social Media and Frocktober 45:28 Advocacy and the Importance of Community 49:31 Key Factors for Success in Her Scientific Career 50:51 Challenges Faced by Women in Science 51:36 Passion for Women's Health Advocacy 55:00 Advice for Junior Scientists 56:23 Frocktober: Raising Awareness for Ovarian Cancer Music: “Wescience Podcast Intro” Artist: Wescience Podcast Composer: Carlos Aya Bonilla © 2025 Carlos Aya — All rights reserved.Available in Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram and Tik Tok with @WeSciencePodcast handle. Website: www.drcarlosayabonilla.com

    59 min

  3. 11/28/2025

    Episode 7 (AUDIO ONLY): Australian Flora: Uniqueness and Global Impact by Digby Growns

    Summary: In this conversation, Mr Digby Growns, a plant scientist leading the plant breeding at Kings' park discusses the significance of Kings Park, his journey into plant science, the unique flora of Australia and Western Australia, and the benefits and challenges of plant breeding. He explores the challenges and opportunities in conservation, the role of botanical gardens and the impact of indigenous knowledge on plant use. The discussion also touches on ethical considerations in plant breeding and the future of Australian flora in a changing environment. Keywords: #kingspark , #plantbreeding , #Australianflora, #conservation , #ethnobotany , #biodiversity , #horticulture , #indigenous knowledge, #environmentalimpact , #botanicalgarden #westernaustralia #plant Takeaways: Kings Park is a unique blend of natural bushland and parkland.Eucalyptus species have adapted globally, impacting local ecosystems.Australia's flora is largely endemic, with 90% of species found nowhere else.Plant breeding has evolved over thousands of years, focusing on both aesthetics and environmental benefits.The blue kangaroo paw represents a significant breakthrough in plant breeding.Botanical gardens play a crucial role in conservation and education.Indigenous knowledge contributes to understanding plant uses and benefits.Plant breeding faces challenges such as pollination complexities and seed germination.The future of Australian flora may include global applications due to climate change.Passion and following opportunities are key to success in plant science.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Kings Park and Botanic Gardens 04:01 Journey into Plant Science 06:42 Eucaliptus: An Australian plant and its impact worldwide 10:18 The Uniqueness of Australian Flora 13:09 Understanding Plant Breeding 18:11 Challenges and Opportunities in Plant Breeding 22:40 Success Stories in Plant Development 27:55 The Global Impact of Australian Flora 29:24 Plant Breeding vs Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) 31:17 Transfer of Indigenous Knowledge and Plant Use 33:07 Personal Joys and Challenges 34:58 The Role of Botanical Gardens in Conservation 35:41 Legacy and Future of Plant Breeding Available in Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram and Tik Tok with @WeSciencePodcast handle. Website: www.drcarlosayabonilla.com Music: “Wescience Podcast Intro” Artist: Wescience Podcast Composer: Carlos Aya Bonilla © 2025 Carlos Aya — All rights reserved.

    38 min

  4. 11/28/2025

    Episode 7: Australian Flora: Uniqueness and Global Impact by Digby Growns

    Summary: In this conversation, Mr Digby Growns, a plant scientist leading the plant breeding at Kings' park discusses the significance of Kings Park, his journey into plant science, the unique flora of Australia and Western Australia, and the benefits and challenges of plant breeding. He explores the challenges and opportunities in conservation, the role of botanical gardens and the impact of indigenous knowledge on plant use. The discussion also touches on ethical considerations in plant breeding and the future of Australian flora in a changing environment. Keywords: #kingspark , #plantbreeding , #Australianflora, #conservation , #ethnobotany , #biodiversity , #horticulture , #indigenous knowledge, #environmentalimpact , #botanicalgarden #westernaustralia #plant Takeaways: Kings Park is a unique blend of natural bushland and parkland. Eucalyptus species have adapted globally, impacting local ecosystems. Australia's flora is largely endemic, with 90% of species found nowhere else. Plant breeding has evolved over thousands of years, focusing on both aesthetics and environmental benefits. The blue kangaroo paw represents a significant breakthrough in plant breeding. Botanical gardens play a crucial role in conservation and education. Indigenous knowledge contributes to understanding plant uses and benefits. Plant breeding faces challenges such as pollination complexities and seed germination. The future of Australian flora may include global applications due to climate change. Passion and following opportunities are key to success in plant science. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Kings Park and Botanic Gardens 04:01 Journey into Plant Science 06:42 Eucaliptus: An Australian plant and its impact worldwide 10:18 The Uniqueness of Australian Flora 13:09 Understanding Plant Breeding 18:11 Challenges and Opportunities in Plant Breeding 22:40 Success Stories in Plant Development 27:55 The Global Impact of Australian Flora 29:24 Plant Breeding vs Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) 31:17 Transfer of Indigenous Knowledge and Plant Use 33:07 Personal Joys and Challenges 34:58 The Role of Botanical Gardens in Conservation 35:41 Legacy and Future of Plant Breeding Available in Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram and Tik Tok with @WeSciencePodcast handle. Website: www.drcarlosayabonilla.com Music: “Wescience Podcast Intro” Artist: Wescience Podcast Composer: Carlos Aya Bonilla © 2025 Carlos Aya — All rights reserved.

    38 min
  5. Episode 6 (AUDIO ONLY): From Human Research to Marine Biology: Dr Emma de Jong's Journey

    09/16/2025

    Episode 6 (AUDIO ONLY): From Human Research to Marine Biology: Dr Emma de Jong's Journey

    Summary In this episode of WeScience, Dr. Carlos Aya-Bonilla interviews Dr. Emma De Jong, a bioinformatician at the Minderoo OceanOmics Centre. They discuss Emma's journey from human medical research to marine biology, her motivations for becoming a scientist, and the importance of bioinformatics in understanding complex biological systems. Emma shares insights on her research in sepsis, transcriptomics across chronic diseases (asthma and cancer), and profiling of environmental DNA as critical tool for conservation of our marine life, highlighting the significance of collaboration and data quality in scientific research. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced in genomic studies and the need for open access to research resources in marine life research. Keywords ⁠#bioinformatics⁠, ⁠#marinelife⁠ ⁠#marinebiology⁠ ⁠#environmentaldata⁠ ⁠#environmentalDNA⁠ ⁠#immunology⁠ ⁠#asthma⁠ ⁠#fish⁠ ⁠#cancer⁠ ⁠#cancerresearch⁠ ⁠#transcriptomics⁠ ⁠#genomics⁠ ⁠#sepsis⁠ ⁠#systemsbiology⁠ ⁠#referencegenomes⁠ ⁠#catalog⁠ ⁠#immunity⁠ ⁠#genome⁠ Takeaways Emma's motivation to become a scientist stemmed from her siblings' experiences with cancer. Negative data is crucial for guiding future research directions. Understanding sepsis in pre-term infants is vital due to their high susceptibility to infections. Bioinformatics bridges the gap between wet lab and computational biology. Transcriptomics provides a dynamic view of biological responses. Data quality control is essential in research to avoid costly mistakes. Transitioning to marine biology has allowed Emma to explore new scientific avenues. Environmental DNA technologies can revolutionize biodiversity monitoring. Reference genomes are critical for advancing marine research. Collaboration across disciplines enhances scientific outcomes.

    49 min
  6. Episode 6: From Human Research to Marine Biology: Dr Emma de Jong's Journey

    09/16/2025

    Episode 6: From Human Research to Marine Biology: Dr Emma de Jong's Journey

    Summary In this episode of WeScience, Dr. Carlos Aya-Bonilla interviews Dr. Emma De Jong, a bioinformatician at the Minderoo OceanOmics Centre. They discuss Emma's journey from human medical research to marine biology, her motivations for becoming a scientist, and the importance of bioinformatics in understanding complex biological systems. Emma shares insights on her research in sepsis, transcriptomics across chronic diseases (asthma and cancer), and profiling of environmental DNA as critical tool for conservation of our marine life, highlighting the significance of collaboration and data quality in scientific research. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced in genomic studies and the need for open access to research resources in marine life research. Keywords #bioinformatics, #marinelife #marinebiology #environmentaldata #environmentalDNA #immunology #asthma #fish #cancer #cancerresearch #transcriptomics #genomics #sepsis #systemsbiology #referencegenomes #catalog #immunity #genome Takeaways Emma's motivation to become a scientist stemmed from her siblings' experiences with cancer. Negative data is crucial for guiding future research directions. Understanding sepsis in pre-term infants is vital due to their high susceptibility to infections. Bioinformatics bridges the gap between wet lab and computational biology. Transcriptomics provides a dynamic view of biological responses. Data quality control is essential in research to avoid costly mistakes. Transitioning to marine biology has allowed Emma to explore new scientific avenues. Environmental DNA technologies can revolutionize biodiversity monitoring. Reference genomes are critical for advancing marine research. Collaboration across disciplines enhances scientific outcomes.

    49 min
  7. Episode 5 (AUDIO ONLY): Spatial Multi-Omics, Cancer and Pandemics by A/Prof Arutha Kulasinghe

    08/19/2025

    Episode 5 (AUDIO ONLY): Spatial Multi-Omics, Cancer and Pandemics by A/Prof Arutha Kulasinghe

    Summary: In this conversation, Dr. Arutha Kulasinghe shares his journey from South Africa to becoming a leader in personalized medicine and spatial transcriptomics at the University of Queensland. He discusses the importance of patient-centric research and building a "village" to enable ground-breaking discoveries and their rapid translation into clinical settings. He also discusses the challenges in liquid biopsy and the importance of personalized medicine approaches and the utility of spatial transcriptomics to unearth pathogenic mechanisms in cancer and pandemics. Arutha emphasizes the need for diverse backgrounds in science to drive breakthroughs and the importance of mentorship for emerging scientists. He also highlights the future of spatial transcriptomics and its potential in personalized medicine, while addressing the challenges of funding and translating discoveries into clinical practice. Takeaways: Arutha's early experiences with cancer shaped his career path.The importance of patient-centric research in cancer science.Liquid biopsy presents both challenges and opportunities.Understanding the microenvironment is crucial for cancer research.Collaboration is key to advancing scientific discoveries.Spatial transcriptomics offers new insights into tumor biology.Personalized medicine requires understanding individual patient needs.Funding mechanisms need to support innovative and blue-sky ideas.Mentorship plays a vital role in nurturing emerging scientists.Diverse backgrounds in science lead to groundbreaking discoveries.Keywords:Personalized medicine, spatial transcriptomics, cancer research, liquid biopsy, head and neck cancer, COVID-19, multi-omics, mentorship, translational research, scientific collaboration Chapters: ⁠00:00⁠ Introduction of A/Prof Arutha Kulasinghe⁠ 01:19⁠ Personal Journey and Motivation in Science⁠ 05:28⁠ Academic Journey and PhD Experience⁠ 08:07⁠ Liquid Biopsy and Its Challenges⁠ 11:23⁠ Understanding Head and Neck Cancers⁠ 13:48⁠ Factors Contributing to PhD Success ⁠17:36⁠ Transition to Transcriptomics and COVID Research⁠ 20:06⁠ Collaborative Research During the Pandemic⁠ 23:22⁠ Turning Complex Research into Low-Cost Non-invasive Tools for COVID Prognosis ⁠ 26:34⁠ Current and Future Research in Cancer ⁠ 31:42⁠ Unlocking 100 year-old Misteries across Pandemics to Shape Modern Medicine⁠ 35:36⁠ Exploring Immunotherapy and Infection in Lung Cancer ⁠37:13⁠ Learning from Existing Diseases for Future Pandemics⁠ 38:23⁠ The Evolution of Technologies for Scientific Discoveries⁠ 40:37⁠ Multi-Omics and Spatial Mapping Allow us to Dissect Disease's Complexity⁠ 45:32⁠ Challenges in Translating Discoveries to Personalized Medicine⁠ 48:51⁠ The Importance of Personalized (Precision) Medicine⁠ 54:07⁠ Embracing Failure and Celebrating Wins in Science⁠ 56:41⁠ Nurturing Future Scientists and Crazy Ideas⁠ 01:00:59⁠ Bringing Blue Sky Ideas to Life Please Follow us @: Youtube Apple Podcasts Instagram X

    1h 4m
  8. Episode 5: Spatial Multi-Omics, Cancer and Pandemics by A/Prof Arutha Kulasinghe

    08/19/2025

    Episode 5: Spatial Multi-Omics, Cancer and Pandemics by A/Prof Arutha Kulasinghe

    Summary:In this conversation, Dr. Arutha Kulasinghe shares his journey from South Africa to becoming a leader in personalized medicine and spatial transcriptomics at the University of Queensland. He discusses the importance of patient-centric research and building a "village" to enable ground-breaking discoveries and their rapid translation into clinical settings. He also discusses the challenges in liquid biopsy and the importance of personalized medicine approaches and the utility of spatial transcriptomics to unearth pathogenic mechanisms in cancer and pandemics. Arutha emphasizes the need for diverse backgrounds in science to drive breakthroughs and the importance of mentorship for emerging scientists. He also highlights the future of spatial transcriptomics and its potential in personalized medicine, while addressing the challenges of funding and translating discoveries into clinical practice.Takeaways: Arutha's early experiences with cancer shaped his career path.The importance of patient-centric research in cancer science.Liquid biopsy presents both challenges and opportunities.Understanding the microenvironment is crucial for cancer research.Collaboration is key to advancing scientific discoveries.Spatial transcriptomics offers new insights into tumor biology.Personalized medicine requires understanding individual patient needs.Funding mechanisms need to support innovative and blue-sky ideas.Mentorship plays a vital role in nurturing emerging scientists.Diverse backgrounds in science lead to groundbreaking discoveries.Keywords:Personalized medicine, spatial transcriptomics, cancer research, liquid biopsy, head and neck cancer, COVID-19, multi-omics, mentorship, translational research, scientific collaborationChapters:00:00 Introduction of A/Prof Arutha Kulasinghe01:19 Personal Journey and Motivation in Science05:28 Academic Journey and PhD Experience08:07 Liquid Biopsy and Its Challenges11:23 Understanding Head and Neck Cancers13:48 Factors Contributing to PhD Success17:36 Transition to Transcriptomics and COVID Research20:06 Collaborative Research During the Pandemic23:22 Turning Complex Research into Low-Cost Non-invasive Tools for COVID Prognosis 26:34 Current and Future Research in Cancer 31:42 Unlocking 100 year-old Misteries across Pandemics to Shape Modern Medicine35:36 Exploring Immunotherapy and Infection in Lung Cancer37:13 Learning from Existing Diseases for Future Pandemics38:23 The Evolution of Technologies for Scientific Discoveries40:37 Multi-Omics and Spatial Mapping Allow us to Dissect Disease's Complexity45:32 Challenges in Translating Discoveries to Personalized Medicine48:51 The Importance of Personalized (Precision) Medicine54:07 Embracing Failure and Celebrating Wins in Science56:41 Nurturing Future Scientists and Crazy Ideas01:00:59 Bringing Blue Sky Ideas to LifePlease Follow us @:SpotifyApple PodcastsInstagramX

    1h 4m
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About

WeScience Podcast brings you inspiring conversations with world-leading scientists—from the lab bench to the global stage. Each episode dives into the personal stories, ground-breaking discoveries, and bold visions shaping our future. Whether you're a curious mind, a student, or a seasoned researcher, WeScience offers a fresh, accessible look at the human side of science. No jargon, just real talk. Join us on this 45-minute journey to discover what drives today’s brightest minds—and how science is changing the world around us. Tune in, get inspired and stay curious.

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  • Creator
    WeScience Podcast
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 WeScience Podcast
  • Show Website
    WeScience Podcast