In this episode, we speak with Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith. Anne is a world leader in mammalian developmental genetics, genome biology, and epigenetics, previously serving as Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and International Partnerships at the University of Cambridge.* Her groundbreaking work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Royal Society’s Buchanan Medal in 2021, a CBE in 2023, and election as a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2017.

Beyond her research, Anne has made significant contributions to the broader scientific community. She has served as President of the UK Genetics Society since 2021, held editorial roles in leading scientific journals, and advised various scientific and trustee boards worldwide. Her leadership extends internationally as a Visiting Professor at Nanyang Technical University in Singapore. Anne’s career exemplifies a deep commitment to advancing science, mentoring future talent, and driving innovation in genomics and epigenetics.

* this podcast was recorded when she was still in this position.

Hosts: Laura Ryan and Laura Lungu

Link to YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMps3r1NchA

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Madeline Lancaster, a leading scientist whose innovative work in cerebral organoids, or "mini brains," has transformed our understanding of human brain development. After earning her PhD in Biomedical Sciences at UC San Diego, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Institute of Molecular Biotechnology in Vienna, where she developed groundbreaking methods to model neurodevelopmental disorders like microcephaly.

Now a Group Leader at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, Dr. Lancaster continues to pioneer research in stem cell biology and neuroscience. In this episode, we’ll explore her career journey, pivotal discoveries, and insights into the future of biomedical science.

Hosts: Laura Ryan and Laura Lungu

Link to YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDdzcBBektU

Today, we’re excited to welcome Michael Anstey to Gravity Encounters, Partner at Cambridge Innovation Capital. With a career that bridges science, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, Mike has been a driving force behind some of biotech’s most exciting innovations. From earning a DPhil in neurobiology at Oxford to co-founding a company whilst working at BCG, and guiding startups like Bicycle Therapeutics, his journey is a testament to the power of bold ideas and calculated risks. As a leader at Cambridge Innovation Capital and co-founder of Innovate Cambridge, Mike is shaping the future of biotech and the innovation ecosystem. Today, we’ll dive into the moments, challenges, and insights that have defined his extraordinary path.

Hosts: Emily James and Jan Venne

Today, we’re joined by Mark O'Connor, a pioneer in the field of oncology R&D, whose work has significantly impacted the way we approach cancer treatment. With over 30 years of experience, our guest serves as Chief Scientist in AstraZeneca’s Oncology R&D division, providing scientific leadership to a team of more than 150 researchers. Specializing in DNA damage response (DDR) biology, he has been instrumental in the discovery and development of groundbreaking cancer therapies, including olaparib (Lynparza), the first-in-class PARP inhibitor approved for clinical use.

In this episode, we delve into his remarkable journey—from earning a Ph.D. in Biochemistry at Bristol University to conducting postdoctoral research in Singapore, and ultimately leading the development of AstraZeneca’s industry-leading DDR pipeline. He shares insights from his time at the Cambridge start-up KuDOS, which laid the foundation for the success of Lynparza. We also discuss his commitment to building global collaborations and driving innovation that translates scientific discoveries into life-changing medicines for patients.

Tune in for a fascinating conversation about scientific leadership, the future of oncology R&D, and how a lifelong passion for advancing cancer care has shaped his life and career.

Hosts: Jan Venne and Claudia Smith

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Janette Thomas whose journey took a fascinating path from the world of dance to the heart of science. Our guest started her career as a dancer but soon found her passion for science, leading her to pursue a degree in the field. She went on to complete a PhD in Biochemistry at the University of Leicester, followed by a postdoc at the University of Cambridge. With experience as a project manager at GlaxoSmithKline and involvement in several startups, including Horizon Discovery, she’s now the Chief Executive Officer at Five Alarm Bio.

In this episode, we explore her upbringing, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and the insights she’s gained along the way. From her early love of the arts to her rise as a leader in biotech, she shares valuable tips for those just starting their own journey.

Hosts: Jan Venne

Today, we to speak with Simone Fishburn, Vice President and Editor-in-Chief at BioCentury. Simone provides strategic oversight of BioCentury's biopharma industry coverage. With a diverse career spanning from bench scientist to consultant and now journalism, her passion for science and innovation shines through in everything she does. She is also a dedicated advocate for advancing women in careers, leadership, and entrepreneurship. In our conversation, we explore her journey to where she is today and the exciting adventures she's had along the way.

BioCenutry Grand Rounds 2024: https://conferences.biocentury.com/grand-rounds

Hosts: Claudia Smith and Jan Venne

In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Cigall Kadoch, a leading expert in chromatin and gene regulation. As a Professor at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School and an investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cigall has made groundbreaking contributions to understanding chromatin remodeling in cancer.

Co-founder of Foghorn Therapeutics, she is driving innovation in therapies targeting chromatin regulation. In this interview, Cigall shares insights from her pioneering research and its potential to transform medicine.

Hosts: Laura Ryan and Julius Christopher Baeck

Link to YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD1nvyyvtDk

In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Jennifer Doudna, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry and a leader in CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. As a professor at UC Berkeley and investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Jennifer has revolutionized biotechnology.

Co-founder of Caribou Biosciences, Mammoth Biosciences, and The Innovative Genomics Institute, she focuses on harnessing CRISPR to address global challenges in health, climate, and agriculture. In this interview, Jennifer shares insights from her pioneering work and its transformative impact on science and society.

Hosts: Emily James and Julius Christopher Baeck

Link to YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXZbHw8jSiU