Absolute Gene-ius

Jordan Ruggieri, Lisa Crawford

Inspiring stories and advice from dPCR gene-iuses.

  1. 5d ago

    From brewing to bioprocessing – Steve Lewis on molecular biology trends

    PCR may be decades old, but it is still one of the most versatile tools in modern molecular biology. In this crossover episode, Absolute Gene-ius welcomes Steve Lewis, host of Speaking of Mol Bio and Director of Product Management at Thermo Fisher Scientific. Steve discusses why PCR remains so broadly relevant across research and applied science, from human identification and food testing to gene synthesis and molecular characterization. He also explores emerging trends shaping molecular biology workflows, including multiplexing, assay design, customization, miniaturization, and the ongoing need for high-quality PCR plastics. The conversation also digs into sustainability in the lab, including why single-use plastics remain essential for reducing contamination risk and how more sustainable material sourcing can help reduce carbon impact without compromising performance. In Career Corner, Steve shares a winding path that started in communications, moved through startups and home brewing, and eventually led to bioprocessing, biosecurity, synthetic biology, and product management. His advice? Cultivate curiosity, surround yourself with good people, and try not to drop your E. coli flask. Visit the Absolute Gene-ius page to learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the science we explore. Discover the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Digital and Real-Time PCR Systems powering real-world research across neuroscience, oncology, agriculture, and more.

    23 min
  2. Multiplexing in action – from simplicity to scientific complexity

    May 6

    Multiplexing in action – from simplicity to scientific complexity

    Multiplexing is reshaping how scientists think about PCR experiments, turning single-target workflows into powerful, multi-dimensional analyses. In this Science Snapshot, we revisit standout moments from past episodes to explore how multiplexing is applied across research areas, from measuring interferon-related genes in lupus to analyzing complex microbial communities and detecting low-level donor-derived DNA.  Guests highlight both the opportunities and challenges, including assay design, probe optimization, and troubleshooting strategies. The episode also showcases how multiplexing enables entirely new applications, such as comparing chromosome ratios, assessing molecular integrity, and distinguishing functional mRNA from truncated byproducts. Whether using qPCR or digital PCR, multiplexing allows researchers to extract more information per sample, improve precision through multiple data points, and better reflect biological complexity. As platforms and chemistries continue to evolve, multiplexing is becoming more accessible, helping scientists move faster, conserve material, and focus more on interpreting results rather than optimizing reactions. Visit the Absolute Gene-ius page to learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the science we explore. Discover the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Digital and Real-Time PCR Systems powering real-world research across neuroscience, oncology, agriculture, and more.

    19 min
  3. Apr 15

    Finding the cheat codes to cell identity

    In this episode, Fiona Connolly, former Platform Innovation and Automation Scientist at bit.bio, explains how deterministic programming replaces the traditional “pinball machine” model of stem cell differentiation with precise genetic instructions. By identifying the exact transcription factor combinations, the “cheat codes” that define specific cell fates, Fiona’s team engineers induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to reliably become neurons, oligodendrocyte-like cells, and other specialized types. She discusses how digital PCR enables accurate transgene copy number validation and multiplexed screening of hundreds of clones, while RNA-seq and qPCR confirm expression fingerprints. The result? Consistent, scalable, high-quality human cell models that accelerate disease research, particularly in areas like neurodegeneration and multiple sclerosis while reducing reliance on animal models. In Career Corner, Fiona shares her journey from curious “why” kid to molecular biologist obsessed with CRISPR, robotics, and automation. Her advice: don’t over-optimize your career path. Stay pluripotent, explore interdisciplinary skills, embrace new tech, and let curiosity guide the way. Visit the Absolute Gene-ius page to learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the science we explore. Discover the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Digital and Real-Time PCR Systems powering real-world research across neuroscience, oncology, agriculture, and more.

    33 min
  4. Mar 18

    Almost a virus – how AAV powers modern gene therapy

    Viruses are not always something to fear; they can also be tools to heal. This episode looks into this positive side of viral biology. Dr. Dan Mitchell, Senior Director of Analytical Development and Quality Control at Matica Biotechnology, joins the show to unpack the science and strategy behind viral vector manufacturing in a CDMO environment. He explains what CDMOs do, how they support cell and gene therapy programs at every stage, and why AAV has become such a powerful delivery vehicle. Dan dives deep into analytical development, describing how technologies like qPCR and digital PCR are used to quantify viral genomes, assess empty-to-full ratios, detect residual host cell DNA, and identify rare recombination events. He also discusses how sequencing, infectivity assays, and orthogonal analytics come together to ensure safety, potency, and regulatory readiness. In Lisa’s Career Corner, Dan traces his path from marine biology curiosity to high-containment virology labs, pressure suits included. He encourages young scientists to get into the lab early, embrace failure as learning, stay curious and find the patience it takes to succeed in science. Visit the Absolute Gene-ius page to learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the science we explore. Discover the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Digital and Real-Time PCR Systems powering real-world research across neuroscience, oncology, agriculture, and more.

    33 min
  5. Mar 4

    How sequencing and PCR work together in oncology research

    In this episode of Absolute Gene-ius, the hosts dive into the evolving world of precision oncology, where detecting rare molecular signals can make all the difference. Dr. Kathie Sollweck brings deep expertise from her work in medical affairs and oncology to explain how modern molecular tools are reshaping cancer research. She breaks down liquid biopsy approaches, including cell-free DNA and circulating tumor cells, and explains why sensitivity and pre-analytics are critical when working with low-abundance targets. Kathie also clarifies how sequencing acts as a wide-angle discovery tool, while digital PCR serves as a laser-focused method for ultra-sensitive monitoring of known mutations, therapy resistance, and minimal residual disease (MRD). Together, these technologies enable more personalized, precise, and less invasive cancer researh strategies. The episode wraps with a fun and refreshingly honest Career Corner, where Kathie shares her non-linear journey from an aspiring actress to botanist to oncology expert. Her advice? Don’t fear sales roles, stay open to unexpected opportunities, and let curiosity guide your career because you never know where it might take you. Visit the Absolute Gene-ius page to learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the science we explore. Discover the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Digital and Real-Time PCR Systems powering real-world research across neuroscience, oncology, agriculture, and more.

    33 min

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Inspiring stories and advice from dPCR gene-iuses.