Bringing Chemistry to Life Thermo Fisher Scientific

Battery expert and consultant, Dr. Heather Platt got interested in battery chemistry during her undergraduate studies and has been headlong in the battery industry ever since. During this great conversation with Paolo, she reviews the critical history of battery chemistry before discussing its current state. Lithium- vs. sodium-ion battery chemistry, the horizon for solid state batteries, global dynamics of the battery industry, and more is covered. Plus, Heather even shares her vision for the future of the industry. This will be an electrifying conversation, join us!

We may be five seasons in, and we’re just getting started. In this special mid-season message, Paolo reminds us that Bringing Chemistry to Life is all about showcasing diverse areas of chemistry and shining a light on the people behind interesting science. Check out past episodes for a treasure trove of inspiring content and subscribe to get new episodes as they drop. Come join us for the ride!

Dr. Monte Helm is not just an educator, but a life-long learner who embodies the true spirit of academic curiosity. With over 30 years of experience in research and teaching, his flexibility and willingness to take the scenic route; postdoctoral research roles, Deputy Director at a national laboratory and a couple of sabbaticals, made all the difference. In this episode, Paolo chats with Monte Helm, a respected Professor of Chemistry at Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City about his journey through crown-phosphine and phosphine ligand synthesis research, and how mentors and sabbaticals played a vital role in his development. Tune in to learn about the joys and challenges of each role, and how Dr. Helm found his true calling in teaching at a community college.

If you've ever felt uncertain about the conventional career path, this episode could give you the inspiration you need.

Chemistry is a family affair with Dr. Alan Dyke, but instead of choosing an academic route like his dad and brother, he ventured into the technology industry. His story is a must listen for any chemist considering a commercial role. Currently VP of Business Development for ProChem Inc., Alan realized that instead of abandoning his scientific expertise, he could combine it with his commercial skills to take technology in new directions. A longtime friend and former colleague of Paolo’s, Alan gets the conversation rolling by talking about the advancements in fields such as homogeneous cross-coupling, biocatalysis, metathesis, and metallocene chemistry.

In this special episode of Bringing Chemistry to Life, we turn the spotlight on our host Paolo Braiuca and put him in the guest chair. Paolo is not only a skilled bioorganic chemist and a Director of Global Market Development at Thermo Fisher Scientific, but he also has the gift of authenticity and accessibility that shines through his own story. He shares his personal journey from dreams of being an NBA star, to leading a startup R&D team, to switching to the “dark side” and a career in marketing. He also reveals how hosting the podcast keeps him connected to great science and brilliant scientists.

Meet reluctant professor turned passionate educator, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, Izzy Lamb. Lamb, who teaches at Fort Lewis College shares his zig zag path from punk to professor, and tells us how it’s his mission to make scientists by teaching how to think and understand the relationship of chemistry to the world around them. When not teaching, Lamb conducts research on photocatalysis and photochemistry, with the aim of contributing to a sustainable, greener future. His passion is contagious and you’ll enjoy his candor over how uncertainty converts to clarity with the help of a few dedicated teachers.