Scientific discovery happens in the lab—but it starts with curiosity and determination. In this episode of Absolute Gene-ius, we welcome Valeria Rangel, a PhD candidate at the University of California Irvine, who shares her research on acute lymphoblastic leukemia and the innovative ways digital PCR is helping uncover genetic patterns linked to cancer in Hispanic populations.

Val’s work focuses on Philadelphia chromosome-like (Ph-like) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. She explains how her lab uses digital PCR to detect mutations with high precision, identify risk factors in certain populations, and even validate findings using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. Through her research, Val sheds light on the role of SNPs, methylation patterns, and translocations in leukemia progression—demonstrating how digital PCR is transforming the way we approach cancer research.

Beyond the science, Val takes us on her personal journey, from struggling to break into research due to financial barriers to finding her passion in oncology. In this episode’s Career Corner, she shares valuable advice for aspiring scientists, tips for landing research opportunities, and some of her most hilarious and humbling lab moments (yes, she has broken multiple pipettes).

Visit the Absolute Gene-ius pageto learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Absolute Q Digital PCR System.

In this episode of Absolute Gene-ius, Dr. C. Dustin Rubinstein takes us inside the world of advanced genome editing, where cutting-edge tools like CRISPR and digital PCR are helping shape the future of biomedical research.

As the Director of the Advanced Genome Editing Laboratory at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Rubinstein shares how his lab develops genetically engineered pig models to study diseases like neurofibromatosis and cancer, providing researchers with more clinically relevant models than traditional small animals. He explains how digital PCR plays a crucial role in confirming genome edits with absolute precision, eliminating the ambiguity that often comes with qPCR and sequencing alone. The discussion dives into the advantages of dPCR for copy number variation analysis and gene editing confirmation, emphasizing the importance of multiple complementary technologies in modern molecular biology.

Beyond the science, Dr. Rubinstein reflects on his career path, the value of mentors, and the unpredictable nature of scientific discovery. He also joins in on some lighthearted lab humor and shares his most embarrassing (and proudest) moments in research. Tune in for an insightful and entertaining look at the intersection of gene editing, career evolution, and the future of molecular biology.

Visit the Absolute Gene-ius pageto learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Absolute Q Digital PCR System.

Season 2 of Absolute Gene-ius comes to a close with a look back at the topics and inspiring conversations that have defined the series. From exploring innovative uses of digital PCR to uncovering its synergy with other molecular tools, this season was packed with insights for scientists at all levels.

Dive into the details as co-hosts Jordan Ruggieri and Christina Bouwens revisit memorable episodes, including using dPCR as a low-cost precursor to single-cell sequencing and its role in quantifying active mRNA in groundbreaking drug development. Hear from experts like Parker Wilson, Christian Cobaugh, and Raquel Munoz, who share how digital PCR is revolutionizing their workflows and complementing other tools like qPCR and NGS.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Absolute Gene-ius without a few puns! Stick around for some lighthearted banter as Jordan and Christina celebrate the season’s success, share their favorite moments, and hint at what’s coming in Season 3. Stay curious, and we’ll see you next cycle!

Visit the Absolute Gene-ius pageto learn more about the guests, the hosts, and the Applied Biosystems QuantStudio Absolute Q Digital PCR System.