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Explore every episode of the podcast BioLab Collective with Jack Wang

Dive into the complete episode list for BioLab Collective with Jack Wang. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
LabBytes #018: What Makes Bacterial Antibiotic Resistant?19 May 202400:08:33

In this excerpt from Episode #029 of the podcast, I explore the causes of antibiotic resistance and how Superbugs are wreaking havoc in the healthcare systems.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #017: Make Adaptability your Science Super Power12 May 202400:07:04

In the face of constant setbacks, how can scientists remain nimble and adapt to the changing landscape in innovation? In this excerpt from Episode 24, I discuss 3 ways to make adaptability your super-power as a scientist

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #016: Science Communication's Secret Role 05 May 202400:03:51

Fleming’s discovery of Penicillin wasn’t enough. He couldn’t purify it in anywhere near the quantities needed to treat millions of wounded soldiers during World War 2. In this excerpt from Episode 24, I discuss Science Communication Secret needed to take Fleming’s penicillin discovery to the next level. It took a collaboration between Fleming, Florey, and Chain, spanning across 16 years and multiple continents to make enough penicillin and save allied troops leading up to D-day.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #015: The 1 Thing Theranos Got Right28 Apr 202400:06:03

Theranos is just known for fraud, right? In this excerpt from episode #028 I dive into the strange parallels between the exacting nature of forensic DNA analysis and the tale of Theranos, did manage to get one thing right...

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #014: The Future of Cancer Diagnosis?21 Apr 202400:06:21

How has cancer diagnosis become more sophisticated over the years? In this excerpt from Episode 17 , we discuss the biggest problems in previous "cures" for cancers, and how cancer diagnosis has advanced.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #013: What Actually Causes Cancer?14 Apr 202400:06:28

How has our understanding of the risk factors for cancer changed over the years? In this excerpt from Episode 17, we discuss the biggest problems in previous "cures" for cancers, and how the scientific understanding around the emergence of cancer cells has advanced.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #012: There is No "Cure" for Cancer?07 Apr 202400:05:55

From nitrogen mustard gas to vaccines and immunotherapies - cancer treatment has changed dramatically over the past 50 years. Will we ever find a "cure" for cancer? In this excerpt from Episode 17, we discuss the biggest problems in previous "cures" for cancers, and how cancer treatment has advanced.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #011: Alzheimer's Tell-Tale Signs31 Mar 202400:06:04

How do you know if you're at risk of Alzheimer's disease? Can you find out? In this excerpt from Episode 15, we deep dive into novel Alzheimer's therapies to discuss their effectiveness, safety, and how to find out if you're at risk.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #010: 23andMe's Secret Plan24 Mar 202400:09:24

Can 23andMe be trusted with your DNA? In this excerpt from Episode 13, we dive into 23andMe's secret plan, which is at least 10 years in the making.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #009: Useless DNA Evidence?17 Mar 202400:06:31

What is the smallest amount of DNA still usable as evidence in a Murder Trial? That's the debate at the center of the recent inquiries into Forensic Science Testing and in this excerpt from episode #028 I dive into what counts as a "lab bungle" when working with tiny microscopic amounts of Forensic Evidence. Is working with trace amounts of DNA prone to misinterpretation and miscarriage of justice?

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Talk soon,

Jack.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #008: Open to Work? Try this instead10 Mar 202400:07:31

The "Open to Work" tag on LinkedIn is one of the biggest red flags for recruiters. What should you do instead? In this excerpt from episode #027 I discuss a long-term strategy for showcasing your value - to your employer as well as outside of your immediate networks.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Talk soon!

Jack.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#035: The Hardest Part of Being a Scientist?03 Mar 202400:14:50

I’ve been closely following all of the Science Headlines in the news on a daily basis for the past 18 months. My observation of where all this is going is… not great. Every article is a random scatter of topics with no clear long-term messaging behind it. Is this reflective of audience appetite and the general fatigue around science reporting, or a flawed strategy in science communication?

In Episode 35 I talk about the solution to this problem, which (unfortunately?) inevitably comes down to education.

Chapters

(0:00) Introduction

(2:51) The worst part about science reporting

(4:01) Impact on Science Teachers

(6:19) The importance of range

(10:04) 1 strategy to setup your career in science communication

Show notes

* Science headlines in NY times

* Guardian’s 10 biggest science stories of 2023

* Range: Why generalists triumph in a specialised world

* Lessons from YouTube niching down

Talk soon,Jack.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #007: A Scientist's Greatest Fear25 Feb 202400:04:21

In this episodes of LabBytes, I contemplate every scientist’s greatest fear: being called out as an impostor. It could be by your supervisor, the most esteemed researcher in your field, or simply by an anonymous troll. Even though the academic weight of these opinions is nowhere near the same, the impact it has on our psyche is the same.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

How can we turn lemons into lemonade and make this feeling of inadequacy the motivating factor to learn and grow? This and more in this week’s LabBytes.

Talk soon,

Jack.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #006: Big Pharma's High Stakes Gamble18 Feb 202400:05:00

What is the secret to Big Pharma's approach to innovation? In this LabBytes episode I explore hostile takeovers in the biosciences, and the parallels between Big Pharma and Big Tech.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #005: What do Nobel Laureates have in common?11 Feb 202400:09:52

What can we learn from the 2023 Nobel Prize Laureates? Other than the impact of their discoveries, what do these brilliant minds have in common? In this week’s LabBytes podcast episode we explore the careers and lives of Nobel Prize winners in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology to draw inspiration for our day-to-day work.

Did you catch this week’s episode on using the HALO framework to apply for jobs in Biomedical Science?

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#034: Applying for Biomedical Science Jobs?04 Feb 202400:26:05

Are there any jobs in Biomedical Science? Of course there are, let's talk about how to apply for them from beginner to advanced using the HALO framework:

Headlines: the 3 most impressive things about you that an employer should know

Activities: the range of duties and responsibilities you’ve taken on over the past few years, focusing mostly on your most current role

Lessons Learnt: imposing a narrative structure on your application to highlight how you approach professional learning

Outcomes: numbers don’t lie so frame your achievements through the lens of data, whether it be quantity or quality.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Show notes:

Is a biomed degree useless?

Latest Biomedical Science jobs in Australia

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction

1:26 Job 1 - QC Microbiology Analyst

10:33 Job 2 - Medical Scientist

19:10 Job 3 - Laboratory Manager



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #004: Are you bad at Job interviews?28 Jan 202400:08:50

As part of 2024’s ongoing focus on Jobs in Science, last week we talked about how a career in Biomedical Science - specifically the Bioinformatics branch of the field - can easily pivot towards Data Science. Much of this discussion has focused on how to make you look good on paper, but what happens when you make the shortlist for the job opening?

Selection panels are still the gatekeepers for the vast majority of jobs out there, and the interview process is their weapon of choice. Many scientists tend to be more introverted than the average person, so it is hard for our talent to shine in an interview setting.

In this week’s LabBytes episode, I talk through how I overcame the challenges associated with communicating in a Job Interview setting, and 5 reasons why you may struggle applying for Jobs in Science.

Coming up soon - a new JobHunters episode talking through the strategy of applying for live job listings as a Medical Scientist and Laboratory Manager.

Talk soon,

Jack.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#033: From Biomed to Data Science: Bioinformatics?21 Jan 202400:18:24

How do you get access to the world's most complex datasets as a training ground for your long career in Data Science? Biomedical Science and Bioinformatics may be the answer.

Chapters:

* (0:00) Introduction

* (1:42) Data Science jobs are not for beginners

* (6:33) Bioinformatics and Data Science

* (7:54) Job 1 (Entry-level)

* (13:12) Job 2 (advanced)

Show notes:

* Data Science jobs

* Entry level bioinformatician

* Senior bioinformatician

Thank you for reading BioLab Collective with Jack Wang. This post is public so feel free to share it.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #003: Are Soft Skills Important in Science?14 Jan 202400:05:58

I have just launched a new series for the new year, “Job Hunters”, walking through live job listings in Science and Tech (as well as the strategy to apply for them). The contrast between entry-level versus senior roles often comes down to soft transferable skills not immediately obvious on paper.

In this week’s LabBytes episode, I revisit the most important Soft Skill in Science, and debate why soft skills in general are underrated/undervalued in scientific work places.

Happy job hunting everyone,

Jack.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#032: Lab Jobs in Biomedical Science - Beginner Vs Pro?07 Jan 202400:20:25

Is Biomedical Science worth studying? Do generalists still have the upper hand over specialists in the job market or has the economy turned the tide? In this episode of the podcast I walk through 3 live job listings in biomedical science. While they are all lab-based, they are not at the mercy of the publish or perish paradigm in academia.

Today let's talk lab jobs in biomedical science, from beginner to pro.

This episode is Part 1 of my new “Job Hunter” series. Part 2 will go live later this week for paid subscribers, where I talk through specific strategies and frameworks for applying for the 3 jobs we talk about in this episode.

Chapters:

* (0:00) Introduction

* (1:14) Is Biomedical Science a useful degree?

* (5:24) Job 1 - Beginner

* (10:46) Job 2 - Intermediate

* (15:53) Job 3 - Advanced

Show notes:

* Is a Biomed degree useless?

* Latest Biomedical Science jobs in Australia

* Job 1

* Job 2

* Job 3

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #002: Year 1 vs Year 2 on YouTube31 Dec 202300:08:52

I have now been a YouTuber for 2 years, balancing it alongside my full-time jobs as a scientist and academic. Is YouTube worth the time and effort? I still haven't made a cent off the platform (yet), but I manage my time using these 5 Atomic Habits. Hopefully you can find value in these habits for your own context, and take your productivity to the next level in 2024.

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#031: Alzheimer's Then Vs Now? Biggest Science Headlines of 202324 Dec 202300:26:56

Not one, but two new Alzheimer’s drugs were announced this year, but that is just the tip of the iceberg for Science news headlines! There's no quicker way to look like a fool than to make predictions about the future of science and tech, but here goes nothing. In the final episode of the podcast this year, listen (or watch) me react to my past predictions about the biggest science headlines of 2023.

Chapters:

* (0:00) Introduction

* (1:15) Alzheimer's drugs

* (4:54) AI

* (8:04) Ozempic

* (16:46) 23andMe

* (21:05): Lab-grown meat

Show Notes:

* Alzheimer’s drugs approved for sale in Britain

* Competition watchdog looking int microsoft and openAI

* AI Superalignment

* Google Gemini

* Grok on X

* Ozempic replicas

* History of diabetes

* Monstrous Egos in Science

* 23andMe Genetic Testing

* The Cost of Genetic Testing

* Lab Grown Meat still far from reality

* Australia approves sale of lab grown meat



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#030: How to Survive Burnout in Science17 Dec 202300:23:03

Is it just fatigue, or do you have Burnout? In episode 30 of the (newly rebranded) Biolab Collective with Jack Wang podcast, we dive into why burnout in science and technology is inevitable, my own plans to beat burnout, and how I plan on evolving this podcast in 2024.

Chapters:

* (0:00) Introduction

* (1:29) Science job satisfaction is at an all-time low

* (5:11) How do you know if you have Burnout?

* (6:30) 6 factors that lead to Burnout

* (10:53) Toxic Positivity is not the answer

* (13:28) 4 steps to prevent Burnout

* (17:26) My 2024 plan to beat Burnout - Ikigai

* (20:49) I'm starting a second channel

Show Notes:

* Nature's Science Job Satisfaction Survey

* One editor's appeal to prevent Burnout

* Maslach Burnout Inventory

* Review of Burnout

* Toxic positivity

* Burnout Interventions (Table 4)

* 4-step Self care plan

* Ikigai.

* My second channel on photography and mental health

BioLab Collective with Jack Wang is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
LabBytes #001: It's time for a rebrand.14 Dec 202300:04:54

LabBytes is a new shorter format I’m trying out? #001 is an update on why “Crossover Connections” had to end.

I started this podcast in January 2023, and next week will mark 30 episodes around the Business of Science. I love doing the podcast but it has taken up a lot of my down time.

Outside of family time and carer duties, my supposed “down-time” consists of:

* YouTube Channel (upload 3-4 videos a week)

* Podcast (1 episode a week)

* Substack newsletter (1 post a week)

* TikTok/Instagram (1-2 videos a week)

* LinkedIn (2 posts a week)

* Twitter/X (2-4 posts a week)

* Photography (1 outing every 1-2 months).

So… this is a lot. I had to really reflect on why I’m doing any of this.

The core truth of it all is that my Ikigai is helping people navigate uncertainty. Modern career paths are riddled with loopholes and trapdoors, and I believe my voice in this space (as a scientist and educator) has value. I need to shift my strategy for 2024 to make everything work though, and here’s my 3 step plan:

1. A Rebrand.

Out of all of my online ventures, my YouTube channel has been around the longest - BioLab Collective with Jack Wang. For the sake of simplicity and basic brand awareness, everything I’m doing will use the same name. The Podcast, TikTok, Instagram, Substack… all of it is now called BioLab Collective.

2. New Content

Free Substack subscribers:

My ongoing commitment to you going forward is 1 podcast episode in your feed every Monday morning.

Part of this will include shorter “LabBytes” episodes like this one (~5 minutes) giving quicker updates around the Business of Science.

Paid Substack Subscribers:

Early access to my new “Job Hunter” series:

* How to apply for live job listings in Science and Tech.

* New jobs every week (mostly based in Australia), spanning across both entry-level and senior positions in Research, Education, Academia, Government, and Industry.

* Members on my YouTube channel can also get early access to this series (first episode goes live soon).

At the end of every month I will make a compilation that is available to all subscribers. While free subscribers won’t get the benefit of the timeliness of job listings, my strategies will still be relevant for future opportunities.

3. A More Sustainable Model

I’m hoping steps 1 and 2 will allow me to hire an editor and scale up the level of content production, but sustainability isn’t just about revenue.

To replenish my creative inspiration, I am starting a completely different venture in 2024. Bokeh Therapy with Jack Wang - a YouTube channel that focuses on the intersections between Photography and Mental Health. It is completely unrelated to my day job (and anything to do with the Business of Science), but building a different online community will allow me to grow as a creator and a more compelling communicator across different genres.

… and that’s it for now. Thanks for reading, listening, and watching in 2023, and I will continue to deliver in 2024.

The year’s not over yet! 2 more podcast episodes left on Burnout in Science, and a round up of the biggest Science headlines in 2023.

Talk soon,

Jack.

Thanks for reading BioLab Collective with Jack Wang! Subscribe to receive new posts and support my work.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#029: SuperBug Fallout10 Dec 202300:23:38

Is the Nuclear Winter predicted by movies and games still in the realm of Science Fiction? What technologies (if any) may help us survive the fallout? In Episode #029 of the podcast, I explore whether Superbugs can survive in radioactive wastelands, their roles in wreaking havoc in the healthcare systems, and how AI can help speedup the pace of antibiotic discovery.

Chapters

* (0:00) Introduction

* (1:49) Extremophile bacteria that can survive at Chernobyl

* (7:08) How do bacteria become Superbugs?

* (11:46) Who should prescribe antibiotics?

* (16:44) Viruses vs bacteria - who wins?

* (19:24) AI's role in antibiotic discovery

Show notes

* New Fallout TV series

* Bacteria found in nuclear reactors

* Bioremediation

* How bacteria become resistant to antibiotics

* Treat UTIs

* A post antibiotic world?

* Clovibactin the answer?

* Phage therapy is and isn’t the answer

* AI and the discovery of new drugs

* Alphafold

* Next-gen alphafold

Thanks for reading BioLab Collective with Jack Wang! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#028: DNA on trial: When Forensic Science Fails03 Dec 202300:22:54

That's the debate at the center of the recent inquiries into Forensic Science Testing and in episode #029 I dive into what counts as a "lab bungle" when working with tiny microscopic amounts of Forensic Evidence. How can graduates prepare for this career path when there is so much at stake? The story also follows an eerily similar trajectory to Theranos - who despite all the deception and fraud did manage to get one thing right...

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:15) Queensland Forensic Lab Bungle

(2:58) Automated vs Manual DNA extraction

(6:05) How much DNA do you need as Evidence?

(12:23) The Strange Connection to Theranos

(14:01) The one thing Theranos got right

(18:32) 19 Forensic careers and how to get started

Show Notes:

Serious failures in QLD forensic DNA lab

More than 100000 samples may need retesting

Automated vs manual DNA extraction

Threshold of 0.001ng/uL

10ng of DNA is limit of detection

PCR amplification of DNA

Theranos and fraud

The FDA’s legal loophole

How many blood tests can be carried out with just one drop of blood?

How blood tests actually work:

How to find a job in forensics

Thanks for reading BioLab Collective with Jack Wang! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#027: Open AI Vs Big Pharma | The Chaos Is The Point26 Nov 202300:21:41

In episode #027 I try to respond in real time to the crisis at OpenAI, and question how big of a crisis it really is? Hostile takeovers are part and parcel of any industry driven by innovation and there are some striking parallels between Big Tech and Big Pharma. How should graduates respond in such a job market when The Chaos is the Point?

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:42) OpenAI staff's revolution

(5:11) Sam Altman's triumphant return?

(6:37) Microsoft's history of mergers and acquisitions

(8:47) Big Pharma uses the same playbook

(11:14) Pfizer buys cancer drug company Seagen

(14:31) How graduates should respond to workplace chaos.

(15:37) Should you be "Open to work" on LinkedIn?

(18:17) It pays a lot less to switch jobs right now

Show notes:

OpenAI’s open revolt

OpenAI’s CEO hired by Microsoft

Microsoft’s Acquisitions

Big Pharma M&A

Pfizer wins antitrust go-ahead for $43billion acquisition of Seagen

Seagen’s anti-cancer drug pipeline

Open to work on LinkedIn is a red flag

Pays less to switch jobs right now

Thanks for reading BioLab Collective with Jack Wang! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#026 Will WeWork Work in Science?19 Nov 202300:22:40

In Episode #026 I discuss WeWork's spectacular rise and recent declaration of bankruptcy, how shared working spaces evolve in startup science labs, and compare traditional scientific institutions versus the biohacker movement.

Oh and we also talk about the thorny topic of of negotiating your startup package when opening your first lab - all in this week's episode of the podcast.

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:08) What a WeWork membership costs

(3:04) Why WeWork went bankrupt

(5:28) The Cost of Starting your own Science lab

(11:10) Giant shared working spaces in Science

(13:52) The Reproducibility crisis

(15:54) Biohacking versus Traditional Science

Show notes:

The Wildest Moments of WeWork’s rise

What does WeWork Cost (per employee)

What does it cost to start a lab?

The Replication Crisis

How does Biohacking work?

Dangers of biohacking

Thanks for reading BioLab Collective with Jack Wang! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#025: Surviving Nightmare Job Interviews in Science12 Nov 202300:21:56

Job interviews are not “on the level”. None of the questions are actually about the questions, they’re about the indirect message you send to potential employers about your underlying values.

In Episode#025 I explain why job interviews In the highly technical fields of science and innovation are even more complicated than you might imagine.

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:26) How to get a job in academia - Then Vs Now

(7:46) The Coffee Cup Test

(9:14) 5 Worst Job Interview Questions

(12:50) The Worst Job Interview Stories from Reddit

(15:32) Science Job Interviews - what's different about them?

(17:53) One Big Idea

(19:45) How to Survive AI Interviews

Show Notes:

What does it take to land a faculty position in 2006 https://www.science.org/content/article/how-get-job-academia?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D28144932458286006893846802537856745725%7CMCORGID%3D242B6472541199F70A4C98A6%2540AdobeOrg%7CTS%3D1698058664

Finding a Faculty STEM position in 2019 https://bmcproc.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12919-021-00210-x

Coffee Cup Test https://www.businessinsider.com/job-interviews-boss-coffee-cup-test-mind-games-2023-9

5 Worst Job Interview Questions https://www.theguardian.com/money/shortcuts/2023/mar/15/how-to-answer-five-worst-job-interview-questions

Worst job interview you’ve ever had on Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/lazflz/what_was_the_worst_job_interview_youve_had/

The Big idea: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescommunicationscouncil/2022/06/29/the-big-idea-five-keys-to-the-future-of-brand-marketing/?sh=5dab248945c1

How to Survive AI Job Interviews https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ai-job-interview-tips-to-prepare-artificial-intelligence/#

Thanks for reading BioLab Collective with Jack Wang! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#024: Top 5 Soft Skills for Success in Science05 Nov 202300:21:16

In Episode #024 I explore The Top 5 Soft Skills for Success in Scientific work environments. What's the difference between soft and hard skills, and which is the rarest soft skill in Science?

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:58) Soft Vs Hard Skills

(4:27) Leadership

(6:38) Time Management

(10:37) Science Communication

(14:28) Adaptability

(18:19) Know who you are

Show Notes:

The most common soft skills for scientists: https://www.quora.com/As-a-scientific-researcher-what-are-some-of-the-common-soft-skills-one-needs-to-learn

Leadership: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-to-be-a-great-leader-in-science/

Time management: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/campus/tame-todo-list-and-manage-academic-workload

Communication: https://www.acs.org/education/whatischemistry/landmarks/flemingpenicillin.html#:~:text=Designation%20and%20Acknowledgments-,Landmark%20Designation,Laboratory%20Museum%20in%20London%2C%20UK. Florey and Chain

Adaptability: https://hbr.org/2011/07/adaptability-the-new-competitive-advantage

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#023: Will Your Tesla Catch Fire?29 Oct 202300:17:13

In Episode #023 I explore everything from solar eclipses to new overheating iPhones and multiple Electric Vehicle battery fires reported in Australia. Has battery technology hit a bottleneck and should EV owners be worried about their safety?

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(2:14) What causes lithium-ion battery fires?

(6:11) How rare are EV fires?

(7:40) How to build a better battery

(9:34) The basic components of a lithium-ion battery

(12:58) Recycling lithium ion batteries

Show notes:

What happens when batteries explode?

https://theconversation.com/what-causes-lithium-ion-battery-fires-why-are-they-so-intense-and-how-should-they-be-fought-an-expert-explains-214470

How rare are EV fires?

https://theconversation.com/electric-vehicle-fires-are-very-rare-the-risk-for-petrol-and-diesel-vehicles-is-at-least-20-times-higher-213468

How to build a better battery

https://www.vox.com/recode/23027110/solid-state-lithium-battery-tesla-gm-ford

Iphone 15 Pro overheating:

https://www.zdnet.com/article/new-iphone-15-pro-overheating-reports-still-too-hot-after-ios-17-0-3-and-fresh-issues-arise-after-the-update/

Recycling lithium ion batteries is complicated:

https://www.csiro.au/en/research/technology-space/energy/energy-in-the-circular-economy/battery-recycling

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#022: The Subtle Art of Quiet Quitting in Science19 Oct 202300:23:15

"Quiet quitting" can be interpreted as putting in the minimum effort required of us in the workplace in an attempt to foster work-life balance. Why won't this work for Scientists, and is this a sign of systemic toxicity?

In Episode #022 I explore Steven Bartlett's Quitting framework, compare the difference between quiet vs loud quitting, and interpret 8 red flags of a toxic workplace through the lens of a scientist. It turns out that our threshold for punishing work conditions is higher than most, and this benefits and harms scientists in equal measure.

Chapters

* (0:00) Introduction

* (1:01) Steven Bartlett's Quitting Framework

* (4:34) Science is defined by failure

* (8:18) Quiet quitting vs loud quitting

* (13:05) 3 signs your boss is considering a "quiet cut"

* (15:57) 8 red flags of a toxic work environment

Show Notes:

* Steven Bartlett's Quitting Framework

* 3 millennials try to explain quiet quitting

* Is loud quitting worse than quiet quitting?

* What is quiet cutting?

* 8 Red flags of toxic workplaces

* The Happiest Job in the world?

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#021: How Can Scientists Win a Nobel Prize?11 Oct 202300:23:11

In Episode #021 we discuss the 2023 Nobel Prizes for Chemistry, Physics, and Medicine, and contemplate their value relative to the satirical and very much tongue-in-cheek Ig Nobel Prizes.

What can scientists and non-scientists alike learn from these historical breakthroughs?

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:18) Nobel Prize in Chemistry - Quantum Dots

(5:21) Nobel Prize in Physics - Attoseconds

(9:00) Nobel Prize in Medicine - mRNA Vaccines

(18:09) Nobel vs Ig Nobel Prizes?

Show Notes:

Quantum Dots:

* https://theconversation.com/quantum-dots-are-part-of-a-revolution-in-engineering-atoms-in-useful-ways-nobel-prize-for-chemistry-recognizes-the-power-of-nanotechnology-215015

* https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/this-top-secret-prototype-display-will-blow-your-mind/

* https://www.dovepress.com/biomedical-applications-of-quantum-dots-overview-challenges-and-clinic-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-IJN

Attosecond Revolution:

* https://www.nobelprize.org/uploads/2023/10/fig2_fy_en_23.pdf

mRNA Vaccines:

* https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/medicine/2023/press-release/

* https://www.genome.gov/about-genomics/fact-sheets/Understanding-COVID-19-mRNA-Vaccines

Ig Nobel Prizes:

* https://improbable.com/ig/winners/#ig2023

* https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/first-individual-to-win-both-a-nobel-and-ig-nobel-prize

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#020: Can Scientists Escape the Lab?31 Aug 202300:28:19

In Episode #020 I discuss 5 jobs scientists can do away from the lab, debate the evolving nature of remote work, and provide 2 concrete strategies to create career capital for your next role.

Oh and I (stupidly) try to respond to your conspiracy theories about science.

Chapters:

* (0:00) Introduction

* (1:38) 5 jobs scientists can do away from the lab

* (8:33) Zoom cancels working from home

* (10:54) Is it legal for employers to ban remote work?

* (13:03) How to get better at job interviews

* (17:40) Stand out with a Digital Visual Resume

* (20:38) Scientist reacts to your conspiracy theories

Show notes:

5 Jobs Scientists can do remotely/work from home

Zoom forces employees to come back to the office

Can your employer force you back to the office?

Tell me about yourself in a job interview

The value of Digital Visual Resumes

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#019: Mushroom Murder - 5 Deadliest Poisons?24 Aug 202300:24:53

A Mushroom Cook and a family lunch that left 3 dead - can supermarket mushrooms be deadly? In Episode #019 I dive into the molecular machinations of Death Cap mushrooms, and whether nature or synthetic chemicals are more responsible for the deadliest poisons on the planet.

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(3:59) Why Deathcap mushrooms are deadly

(6:04) An antidote is on the way?

(8:29) Should you be foraging for mushrooms in the wild?

(10:38) Your comments from previous episodes

(12:31) The 5 deadliest poisons on the planet

(19:13) Which is better - Natural or Synthetic?

Show notes:

* Deadly mushrooms: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/mushroom-poisoning-australia-beef-wellington-b2395929.html

* Why are deathcap mushrooms so deadly? https://amp.theguardian.com/science/2023/aug/10/victoria-death-cap-mushroom-poisoning-what-are-death-caps-deadly-toxic-poisonous-australia

* Antidote for Death cap mushrooms? https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2023/05/17/1175494500/new-hope-for-an-antidote-to-death-cap-mushrooms-and-other-poison-fungi

* Vic health departments advice on mushrooms: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/mushroom-poisoning

* Elementary mushroom episode: https://cbselementary.fandom.com/wiki/A_Study_in_Charlotte

* World’s Five deadliest poisons (only one is synthetic): https://theconversation.com/handle-with-care-the-worlds-five-deadliest-poisons-56089

* Natural vs synthetic chemicals is a gray matter: https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/natural-vs-synthetic-chemicals-is-a-gray-matter/

* Are Natural Products best? https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20220614-synthetic-or-natural-which-is-best-for-climate-and-health

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#018 - Netflix for Drugs: Subscribe to Big Pharma?16 Aug 202300:22:36

In Episode #018 I explore the economics behind the Netflix subscription model, its advantages when applied to Healthcare and Big Pharma, as well as its potential downsides. Is the Netflix model even working for Netflix?

Chapters

* (0:00) Introduction

* (0:35) What is the Netflix Model for Drugs?

* (1:57) The Netflix model for Hepatitis C drugs

* (3:54) Netflix stock takes a tumble

* (5:27) Hollywood strikes and Netflix

* (7:38) How Netflix spends and saves its money

* (8:37) NHS saves 7 billion pounds

* (11:24) What Big Pharma thinks about these savings

* (14:58) Adobe is vulnerable to disruption because of Netflix

* (18:17) Responding to viewer comments

Show Notes

* Netflix style subscription model for drugs in Big pharma

* Computer modelling for Pricing License Agreement (PLA/Netflix) in Hep C study

* Subs surged but stock tanked for Netflix

* How the Hollywood strikes are affecting Netflix

* Everything Netflix is cancelling

* Expensive Netflix Shows

* VPAS for UK saves 7 billion

* What does Big pharma think?

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#017: Cancer - Then Vs Now.09 Aug 202300:24:37

From nitrogen mustard gas to vaccines and immunotherapies - cancer treatment has changed dramatically over the past 50 years. Will we ever find a "cure" for cancer? In Episode #017 I dive into the advances in cancer detection, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Chapters

* (0:00) Introduction

* (1:18) Cancer is not one disease

* (2:29) How Cancer Detection has changed over the years

* (7:01) What is Cancer Overdiagnosis?

* (8:49) Cancer risks - then vs now

* (15:25) The biggest problem with cancer therapies

* (18:39) The future of cancer treatment

* (21:42) Careers in cancer treatment and therapy

Show notes

Diagnosis Then:

* https://www.cancer.org/cancer/understanding-cancer/history-of-cancer/what-is-cancer.html#:~:text=Some%20of%20the%20earliest%20evidence,ancient%20Egypt%2C%20and%20ancient%20manuscripts.

Diagnosis Now:

* https://www.cancer.gov/types https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-05/young-people-urged-to-look-for-bowel-cancer-symptoms-730/102558540

* https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-21/hairdressers-learn-how-to-spot-melanomas/102575262

* https://theconversation.com/how-englands-new-lung-cancer-screening-could-save-thousands-of-lives-expert-qanda-208867

* https://theconversation.com/ai-can-help-detect-breast-cancer-but-we-dont-yet-know-if-it-can-improve-survival-rates-210800

* https://theconversation.com/29-000-cancers-overdiagnosed-in-australia-in-a-single-year-127791

Risk Factors then:

* https://www.cancer.org/cancer/understanding-cancer/history-of-cancer/modern-knowledge-and-cancer-causes.html Risk Factors now:

* https://www.cancer.org.au/about-us/policy-and-advocacy/prevention-policy/risk-factors https://theconversation.com/climb-the-stairs-lug-the-shopping-chase-the-kids-incidental-vigorous-activity-linked-to-lower-cancer-risks-210288 Baby powder caused cancer?

* https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-19/johnson-must-pay-damages-to-cancer-patient-in-baby-powder-suit/102619178

Treatment then:

* https://www.cancer.gov/research/progress/250-years-milestones

* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649739/

* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aminopterin

Treatment now:

* https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/vaccines/hpv-vaccine.html https://www.mdanderson.org/treatment-options/car-t-cell-therapy.html

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#016: When Will AI Replace Your Doctor?02 Aug 202300:22:31

In Episode #016 I dive into the future of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare by looking to the past. Who has tried this before, and why did it fail spectacularly?

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:25) AI in healthcare needs to be medical grade

(5:18) AI needs human doctors to work in healthcare

(8:35) IBM's attempt at an AI healthcare takeover

(13:45) 3 problems that AI can't overcome in healthcare yet

(17:14) When you lose explainability all that is left is culpability

(19:39) Audience comments from previous episodes

Show notes:

AI-powered personalised medicine can revolutionise healthcare

Not all AI is medical grade

It’s failed before: IBM’s Watson

3 big issues with AI in healthcare

When there’s no explainability, culpability is all that’s left (Charlie Teo)

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#015: Leqembi vs Donanemab - Cure for Alzheimer's?27 Jul 202300:28:27

After decades of failed drug trials, two new drugs have emerged in slowing memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease: Leqembi and Donanemab. In Episode #015 I deep dive into novel Alzheimer's therapies to discuss their effectiveness, safety, and how to find out if you're at risk.

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(2:00) Who's most at risk of Alzheimer's Disease?

(5:52) The Amyloid Hypothesis

(7:14) Leqembi approved by FDA

(9:16) Donanenmab may be next

(12:10) Alzheimer's drugs, brain bleeding, and death

(16:01) How do you know if you have Alzheimer's?

(21:20) Dementia and CTE

(22:49) Do taking smart drugs make us more productive? Is it worth the risk?

(27:00) The Connect - viewers' comments from previous episodes

Show Notes:

Alzheimer’s drug being tested Leqembi or Lecanemab

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-07/alzheimer-s-disease-drug-leqembi-gets-green-light-in-us/102575974

Donanemab:

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-05-04/eli-lilly-drug-alzheimer-cognitive-decline-by-35-per-cent/102301474

Systematic failure of Alzheimer’s drug trials:

https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2020-02-26/alzheimers-drug-failure-raises-questions-about-research/11996258

Are these drugs safe?

https://www.science.org/content/article/alzheimer-s-trial-shows-clear-benefits-and-significant-risks-eli-lilly-antibody

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s:

https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/types-of-dementia/alzheimers-disease?gclid=Cj0KCQjwzdOlBhCNARIsAPMwjbz46yEPHVQnD-rqxwHOQrtlHnD2gWQdBRIGW9fc-bDlQzjxd2M-TfgaAvMOEALw_wcB

Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE)

https://cgatoolkit.ca/Uploads/ContentDocuments/MMSE.pdf

CTE in female athlete:

https://theconversation.com/australian-researchers-confirm-worlds-first-case-of-dementia-linked-to-repetitive-brain-trauma-in-a-female-athlete-208929

Smart drugs make you dumb:

https://theconversation.com/smart-drugs-make-you-worse-at-solving-complex-problems-new-study-finds-207711

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#014: Who's to blame for the Opioid Addiction Crisis?19 Jul 202300:25:48

In Episode #014 I dive into the Opioid Addiction Crisis and explore the moral ambiguities associated with R&D.

Chapters

(0:00) Introduction

(0:50) The Origins of the Opioid Epidemic

(5:38) Should you use Opioids for Back or Neck Pain?

(10:03) Australia's Fentanyl Explosion

(14:02) Purdue Pharmaceutical's $6 Billion settlement

(15:44) Why is Fentanyl so addictive?

(19:42) Dealing with moral ambiguities in Science

(22:58) The positive impact of synthetic biology

Show notes:

The Origins of the Opioid epidemic: https://ldi.upenn.edu/our-work/research-updates/the-origins-of-the-opioid-epidemic/

Opioids don’t help acute pain: https://theconversation.com/opioids-dont-relieve-acute-low-back-or-neck-pain-and-can-result-in-worse-pain-new-study-finds-203244

Australia's Fentanyl Explosion: https://amp.9news.com.au/article/c732a2e6-9790-443f-a1e0-2a7f96cddec4

Purdue Pharma settle for $6 billion https://www.npr.org/2022/03/03/1084163626/purdue-sacklers-oxycontin-settlement

How does Fentanyl work? Why is it so potent? https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl

How to Make Synthetic Insulin: https://www.nlm.nih.gov/exhibition/fromdnatobeer/exhibition-interactive/recombinant-DNA/recombinant-dna-technology-alternative.html

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#013: Can You Trust 23andMe for Genetic Testing?12 Jul 202300:29:39

In Episode #013 I dive into the latest headlines surrounding the inaccuracies and ethical quandaries connected to online genetic testing services, and how this ties into genetics jobs in the future.

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:31) 23andMe DNA test reveals IV sperm mixup

(3:58) A journalist's 10-year old predictions about 23andMe

(9:54) 23andMe's big plan all along

(12:08) Unintended consequences of genetic testing

(14:27) Australians are avoiding genetic screening tests

(18:29) Are online DNA tests accurate enough?

(21:25) Can you become a Genetic Counsellor?

(25:52) Audience comments from previous episodes

Show Notes:

* 23andMe reveals not biological father: https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/parenting/kids/dna-test-leads-to-shock-revelation-for-two-families-who-used-ivf/news-story/0005327d9ff68556ef921a0da028914c

* Original concerns back in 2013: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/23andme-is-terrifying-but-not-for-the-reasons-the-fda-thinks/

* 23andme’s master plan: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2021-11-04/23andme-to-use-dna-tests-to-make-cancer-drugs

* 23andMe’s indirect consequences: https://www.vox.com/recode/2019/12/13/20978024/genetic-testing-dna-consequences-23andme-ancestry

* Genetic testing avoidance due to insurance premiums rising: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-30/australians-skipping-genetic-tests-being-used-by-life-insurers/102540960

* Online genetic testing unreliable: https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2021-03-07/online-genetic-testing-direct-to-consumer-brca1-brca2-genes/13212724

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#012: Can you Trust Mental Health Apps?05 Jul 202300:27:53

Why are Mental Health Apps collecting your data? In Episode #012 I explore the Mental Health Technology sector, how they handle your sensitive information, and the impact this has on jobs in Colleges and Healthcare.

Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:20) The Risks of using Mental Health Apps

(10:42) Mental Health Charities and Data Leaks

(12:55) How do Mental Health apps work for therapists?

(18:21) Mental Health in Academia

(24:13) Is throwing money at this problem going to work?

(26:07) What we can do as individuals

Show notes:

Mental Health apps are untested:

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-02/mental-health-app-s-unregulated-cause-user-safety-concerns/102380956

$7.8 million fine for data leak from mental health apps:

https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/03/ftc-ban-betterhelp-revealing-consumers-data-including-sensitive-mental-health-information-facebook

Mental Health Charities Data Leak:

https://amp.theguardian.com/society/2023/jun/03/uk-mental-health-charities-handed-sensitive-data-to-facebook-for-targeted-ads

Hard for mental health apps to deliver:

https://www.thecut.com/article/mental-health-therapy-apps.html

Mental Health in academia:

https://academicmatters.ca/mental-health-in-academia-the-challenges-faculty-face-predate-the-pandemic-and-require-systemic-solutions/

Mental Health services are difficult to get right:

https://theconversation.com/its-4-years-since-the-nz-government-pledged-1-9-billion-for-better-mental-health-services-why-are-we-still-waiting-207908

Mental Health First Aid Training in Australia:

https://mhfa.com.au

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#011: Lab Grown Meat Vs Synthetic Embryos28 Jun 202300:23:46

Lab Grown Meat Vs Synthetic Embryos - it sounds like the worst nightmare in SciFi movies yet it now seems to be our reality.

In Episode #011 I react to the latest news headlines surrounding the ethics and legislation of recent advances in synthetic embryos, and contrast that against the nascent lab grown meat sector. One of these breakthroughs will impact our daily lives much quicker than the other.

Chapter Markers:

* Synthetic Embryos created in groundbreaking advance (2:05)

* Scientists create early stage model of human embryos from skin cells (6:28)

* USDA allows lab-grown meat to be sold to US consumers (9:32)

* What lab-grown chicken tastes like (12:24)

* The hidden-costs of lab-grown meat (14:40)

* How does this impact future jobs in science? (18:10)

* Peptides and the cosmetic industry (19:36)

Show Notes:

Synthetic embryos made in Monash

https://www.theguardian.com/science/2023/jun/14/synthetic-human-embryos-created-in-groundbreaking-advance

Skin cells reprogrammed to become early human embryo model.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-18/scientists-create-human-embryos-from-skin-cells/100015666

USDA allows lab grown meat to be sold:

https://amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jun/21/us-lab-grown-meat-sold-public

How lab-grown meat is made:

https://www.inverse.com/science/lab-grown-meat-taste-test

Cost of DMEM

https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/11965084

What is FBS?

https://www.thermofisher.com/au/en/home/references/gibco-cell-culture-basics/cell-culture-environment/culture-media/fbs-basics/what-is-fetal-bovine-serum.html#:~:text=Fetal%20bovine%20serum%20(FBS)%20is,drawn%20from%20bovine%20fetus%20coagulates.&text=Through%20centrifugation%2C%20cells%2C%20coagulation%20fibrinogens,are%20removed%20to%20produce%20serum.

Peptides in skincare:

https://www.vanityfair.com/style/photos/2023/02/peptides-explained-skin-care-buzzword

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#010: Berberine vs Ozempic for weight loss - is Natural best?09 Jun 202300:36:25

In Episode 1.10, Jack and Amanda evaluate Berberine as a replacement for Ozempic in weight loss planning, discuss scientists’ innate skepticism of natural remedies, and breakdown the “number one” characteristic recruiters at Google and Microsoft are looking for in job interviews. Oh and it’s our Season 1 Finale! Watch us fumble through vague recollections of the past season in an attempt to remember what we’ve learnt.

The Connect:

* Is Berberine Nature’s version of Ozempic? (2:50)

Crossover of the week:

* Guess the headlines (12:10)

Whose Job is it anyway?

* The number 1 thing Google recruiters are looking for in an applicant (24:00)

* The 1 question that makes or breaks job interviews at Microsoft (29:36)

Show notes:

Berberine - Nature’s own Ozempic gaining steam

https://theconversation.com/natures-own-ozempic-or-berberine-is-all-over-social-media-but-does-it-really-help-you-lose-weight-206855

Berberine meta analyses:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332220303292?via%3Dihub

These are the best interview questions:

https://www.businessinsider.com/best-interview-question-how-to-answer-microsoft-vp-of-hr-2022-12?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=business-sf&fbclid=IwAR2ycEQl-jewv3PYE57j7HDXXsSqLAIoLdV-jY1ojtDMHoBLMCI0SbvoN6w

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/07/former-google-vp-shares-no-1-skill-she-looked-for-at-job-interviews-that-people-rarely-had.html?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_content=Intl&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR0iLVS6pZcfrDpR0MUG3dsfLoapaLX-E8B8xM-euE7MENi8JKe_qc6r0ZU&mibextid=Zxz2cZ#Echobox=1683264531



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#009: Should you get the flu shot?25 May 202300:44:51

In Episode #009 Jack and Amanda attempt to debunk some common myths around the flu vaccines, discuss our excitement over new triple viral Rapid Antigen Testing, and vent about pet peeves in work email etiquette.

Chapters:

* (4:36) WHO rejects artificial sweeteners for weight loss

* (9:33) Tiktok promotes vaping being fun and downplays harm

* (12:43) Meta fined 1.3 billion for data transfer from EU to US

* (19:59) Should you get the flu vaccine this year?

* (29:34) Triple viral Rapid Antigen Test approved by TGA

* (32:37) Avoid these email faux pas

Show notes:

https://theconversation.com/the-who-says-we-shouldnt-bother-with-artificial-sweeteners-for-weight-loss-or-health-is-sugar-better-205827

https://theconversation.com/tiktok-promotes-vaping-as-a-fun-safe-and-socially-accepted-pastime-and-omits-the-harms-203423

https://www.theverge.com/2023/5/22/23732461/meta-eu-privacy-fine-us-data-transfers-1-3-billion

https://gdpr.eu/what-is-gdpr/

https://theconversation.com/should-i-get-a-flu-vaccine-this-year-heres-what-you-need-to-know-203406

https://www.9news.com.au/national/health-news-rapid-antigen-test-for-three-viruses-in-one-approved-by-tga/c1e87c83-bbc1-4b72-86d7-b758a19f8384

https://www.cnbc.com/2021/05/17/phrases-that-make-you-sound-passive-aggressive-and-how-successful-people-communicate.html?utm_content=Main&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR3WCt0sYkRVHASF5s0KGXlss--tg9K9oBSM5bm1xsb9pxr3inIQKbM3JvE&mibextid=Zxz2cZ#Echobox=1683731507

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#008 How do we stop vaping in schools?09 May 202300:41:57

It’s better late than never, and in episode 1.08 of Crossover Connections with Jack Wang, we discuss the new ban on vaping imposed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia, and dive into the impact of e-cigarettes on our long-term health.

The Connect:

* Gen Z is the most difficult generation in the workplace according to a poll of >1300 US managers (2:40)

Whose job is it anyway?

* You should never ask this question at any job interviews (9:11)

The Circuit:

* Paracetamol Pack Sales cut back amid fears of overdose (16:31)

* What does vaping do to your body? (20:10)

* 3 key vaping Facts (25:31)

* How nicotine changes brain chemistry in mice over generations (29:03)

* How e-cigarette and tobacco industries targeted young people (31:25)

Crossover of the Week:

* What policies can actually stop vaping in schools? (35:06)

Show Notes:

Gen Z most difficult to work with: https://nypost.com/2023/04/21/gen-z-is-the-most-difficult-generation-in-the-workplace-poll/

Gen Z already burnt out: https://nypost.com/2023/02/17/new-gen-z-workers-already-burnt-out-and-disconnected/

Never ask this question as a candidate at a job interview: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/04/13/never-ask-this-question-at-a-job-interview-says-ceo-why-its-an-immediate-red-flag.html?utm_content=Main&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR0a6wFU3q16zA-yLxSOG8PkL5uaemQrMb3zrwXaRRedlExiBiCjhlYboL0#Echobox=1682008238

TGA bans large packs of Panadol over OD concerns: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-05-03/paracetamol-maximum-packet-size-tga/102300266

Australia bans recreational vapes: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-05-02/federal-government-bans-import-recreational-vapes/102292306

Is vaping worse than smoking?https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-truths-you-need-to-know-about-vaping

NIcotine in mice impairs behaviour across multiple generations: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6191076/

The vaping industry’s secret plan: https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2022-12-22/vaping-e-cigarette-tricks-loopholes-industry-target-young-people/101793648

Vaping is not doing what it claims to do:

https://theconversation.com/a-damning-review-of-e-cigarettes-shows-vaping-leads-to-smoking-the-opposite-of-what-supporters-claim-180675#:~:text=People%20who%20have%20never%20smoked,have%20never%20used%20e%2Dcigarettes.

How do we regulate vaping?

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-02-24/australia-vaping-problem-health-policy-solution/102012768

Last week’s video: https://youtu.be/x__Tgd3unJc



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#007: TikTok Ban, AI job interviews, and fraudulent 30 under 30s27 Apr 202300:55:12

With great purchasing power comes great responsibility and in episode #007 we contrast the economic driving force provided by Gen Z, against the pressures they face entering the workforce.

Chapters:

* (3:56) ChatGPT is hallucinating and making up fake newspaper articles at The Guardian

* (6:13) Face ID for Cows can stop agricultural crime

* (15:40) You know Wordle, but have you heard of “Heardle”?

* (18:26) How did the Super Mario Bros movie make half a billion dollars?

* (22:00) Juul to pay $462 million USD for advertising e-cigarettes to young people

* (25:04) Australia contemplates country-wide ban on phones at school

* (28:54) Multiple countries consider banning TikTok, and why it won’t work

* (34:21) Multiple data leaks across big Australian companies

* (36:58) Why so many 30 under 30s are going to jail

* (46:01) AI will be interviewing you for your next job

Show Notes:

AI is making up fake sources: https://amp.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/apr/06/ai-chatgpt-guardian-technology-risks-fake-article

Facebook for cows to reduce agricultural crime. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-04-13/new-technology-to-reduce-farm-crime-in-australia-ai-facebook/102165686

Spotify shuts down Heardle: https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/14/23683240/spotify-shuts-down-heardle-music-guessing-game

Super Mario Bros crosses $500 million: https://variety.com/2023/film/news/super-mario-bros-movie-box-office-biggest-video-game-adaptation-ever-1235583559/

Juul settles for $462million for advertising to teens: https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2023/04/12/business/juul-settlement/index.html

How does nicotine work: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7163392/

Australia and phone ban at school:

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-04-14/national-mobile-phone-ban-and-restrictions-in-schools/102222320

How effective will a TikTok ban be?

https://theconversation.com/australia-needs-a-robust-cybersecurity-overhaul-not-whack-a-mole-bans-on-apps-like-tiktok-203158

30 under 30 in jail: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/apr/06/forbes-30-under-30-tech-finance-prison

AI job interviews:

https://www.smh.com.au/business/workplace/your-next-job-interview-could-be-judged-by-ai-here-s-how-to-prepare-20230328-p5cvyx.html

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#006: Prime Energy Drink - how much is too much caffeine?05 Apr 202300:39:08

In episode #006 we dissect the “kerfuffle” surrounding the Australian rollout of Prime Energy drink, how dangerous it may or may not be for kids, and the molecular basis of why coffee won’t give you extra energy.

Chapters:

* (2:24) California’s plan for cheaper insulin collides with Big Pharma’s Price cuts

* (6:13) Microbats affected by recent cold snap take refuge in people’s homes?

* (9:38) Tech layoffs and the globalised job market

* (16:10) Global increase in measles cases

* (20:27) FDA approves nasal sprays to treat migraines and opioid overdose

* (25:36) Logan Paul, Ksi, and Prime Energy Drinks

* (34:11) Coffee won’t give you extra energy, it’s just on loan

Show Notes:

* https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/24/health/insulin-prices-california.html

* https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-30/microbats-struggle-with-temperature-flux-with-cold-snap-torpor/102159416

* https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-25/sa-records-first-measles-case-in-three-years/102144922

* https://theconversation.com/new-covid-variants-may-be-more-transmissible-but-that-doesnt-mean-the-r0-or-basic-reproduction-number-has-increased-186826

* https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(17)30307-9/fulltext

* https://edition.cnn.com/2023/03/10/health/migraine-nasal-spray-zavzpret/index.html

* https://www.npr.org/2023/03/29/1166750095/narcan-fda-approval-naloxone-over-the-counter-otc

* https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-30/what-is-prime-energy-hydration-logan-paul-ksi/102160604

* https://theconversation.com/nope-coffee-wont-give-you-extra-energy-itll-just-borrow-a-bit-that-youll-pay-for-later-197897

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#005: GPT 4, Ancient Zombie Viruses, and 4-day working weeks22 Mar 202300:45:29

In episode 5, Jack and Amanda contemplate the implications of GPT 4 and the announcement of Microsoft’s AI Co-pilot, how this may impact scientific discoveries, and how productivity in our sectors can be better streamlined.

Chapters:

* (2:29) Moth eating bats could save wineries $50 million a year

* (7:42) Why are so many new viruses emerging?

* (16:00) Scientists revive a 48,500 year old “Zombie virus”

* (24:47) UK trial of 4-day working weeks showed increased revenue

* (35:34) What is new about GPT-4?

* (37:05) The Alignment problem

Show Notes:

* Moth eating bats to help reduce pesticides in wineries https://amp.abc.net.au/article/102088896

* Why are we seeing so many emerging viruses https://theconversation.com/covid-bird-flu-mpox-a-virologist-on-why-were-seeing-so-many-viruses-emerge-200485

* H5N1 Bird Flu current CDC status https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/avian-flu-summary.htm

* Scientist revives zombie virus from permafrost https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/08/world/permafrost-virus-risk-climate-scn/index.html

* 4 day work week increased revenue by 1.4% https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-02-23/four-day-working-week-trial-study-flexible-hours/102012464

* What is GPT-4 and how does it differ from Chat GPT https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/mar/15/what-is-gpt-4-and-how-does-it-differ-from-chatgpt

* Evolution not revolution: why GPT-4 is notable, but not groundbreaking https://theconversation.com/evolution-not-revolution-why-gpt-4-is-notable-but-not-groundbreaking-201858

* Microsoft announces Copilot https://www.theverge.com/2023/3/16/23642833/microsoft-365-ai-copilot-word-outlook-teams

Thanks for reading BioLab Collective with Jack Wang! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
#004: Diabetic Economics - insulin prices, artificial sweeteners, and Apple watches.08 Mar 202300:37:47

In episode 4 of the Crossover Connections Podcast, Jack and Amanda discuss the latest issues in Science, Technology and Education, this week through the lens of all the new headlines surrounding diabetes treatment and prevention

Chapters:

(2:32) Our apology to bats

(6:17) Nightmarish crochet patterns generated by Chat GPT

(8:45) The alarming parallels between Black mirror and AI dating services .

(12:02) Eli Lilly caps insulin prices

(17:49) Blood glucose monitoring Apple Watches

(25:05) Artificial Sweetener Erythritol linked to stroke and heart attack

Show Notes:

* Why do Bats have so many viruses?

* Chat GPT and nightmarish Crochet patterns

* Replika users fall in love with AI

* Insulin Costs capped in US

* Diabetes drug Fiasp about to be taken off PBS

* Apple makes major progress on no-prick blood glucose tracking for its watch

* Erythritol linked to higher risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit biolabcollective.substack.com
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