Gene Panel Podcast

Genetics in Pop Culture: When Innovation Outpaces Ethics

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:47:58 -0400

In this episode, we kick off a new series highlighting how genetics appears in pop culture, not only as a powerful science but as a compelling storytelling tool. The focus of this episode is the iconic dystopian video game, BioShock, where genetic engineering and bioethical dilemmas drive both gameplay and narrative. Join us as we explore Rapture’s themes on commercializing evolution and the lessons we can take away from it.

How to Build a Woolly Mammoth: What de-extinction really means

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:55:02 -0500

Back with monthly episodes! We’re delving into Colossal Biosciences’ bold plan to revive the woolly mammoth. Join us as we discuss the woolly’s history, Colossal’s attempt to reverse climate change, and the steps to bring back the frozen giant. Science, ethics, and the what-ifs of de-extinction – we’re covering it all in this episode!

mRNA Technologies

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Sun, 08 Aug 2021 14:32:18 -0400

In this episode, we discuss mRNA technology, specifically the COVID-19 vaccines. We talk about how they work to protect us from infections and how long this protection could last. We end off by covering other mRNA therapies and voicing our thoughts concerning the future and some of the politics surrounding the vaccines.

Genetically Modified Organisms

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Tue, 11 May 2021 19:25:11 -0400

In this episode of the Gene Panel, we discuss genetically modified organisms (GMOs). We go over some of the ways GMOs are made as well as some brief history regarding their inception. We also address some of the main public concerns and benefits associated with GMOs. Finally, we give our own opinions regarding GMOs and … Continue reading Genetically Modified Organisms →

Alien Antigens and the Antibody Repertoire

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Sat, 31 Oct 2020 22:18:38 -0400

In this episode, Aideen and Julian talk about how antibodies contribute to making humans resilient to foreign pathogens. The episode starts by entertaining the possibility of a microscopic alien invasion to show generally how immunology can play a role in a variety of fields, including space travel. We cover the genetic basis for the diversity … Continue reading Alien Antigens and the Antibody Repertoire →

Back-to-School

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 17:25:26 -0400

In this episode, we invite the entire Gene Panel Podcast team to discuss our university experiences. Unlike other episodes, this one does not involve any genetics and is more of a conversation among fellow peers. We talk about acquiring practical experience, residence life, commuter life, extracurriculars, and more.

The Genetics Behind Jurassic Park

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Sun, 05 Jul 2020 17:26:39 -0400

In this episode, Aideen Teeling joins us to explore the 1993 Jurrasic Park film from a genetics perspective. We delve into the logistics of reviving dinosaurs and debate some of the theoretical procedures associated with recreating and monitoring the extinct species. We also address the role science fiction films and similar media have in sparking … Continue reading The Genetics Behind Jurassic Park →

#3: SARS-CoV-2

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Sat, 23 May 2020 18:31:46 -0400

In this episode we explain some of the science and technology behind the identification, characterization, and tracking of the virus responsible for the current pandemic that is COVID-19. We explain some of the safety practices that can aid in preventing the spread of the virus as well as talking about some of the rumors and … Continue reading #3: SARS-CoV-2 →

#2.5: Anti-CRISPR: Phage Fight Back

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Sun, 08 Mar 2020 17:33:40 -0400

In this supplementary episode we sit down with Dr. Alan Davidson, a joint professor of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry at the University of Toronto. He and his colleagues discovered anti-CRISPR, so we ask him about the discovery process, how the system works, and how it can be used in tandem with CRISPR to enhance gene … Continue reading #2.5: Anti-CRISPR: Phage Fight Back →

#2: Build-a-Baby: The Power of Gene Editing

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 14:59:58 -0500

In this episode we discuss CRISPR and the heavily debated topic of gene editing. We explore gene editing techniques used prior to CRISPR, and how CRISPR was discovered. We address “designer babies” (“test-tube” fertilization with a choice of which traits you want your child to have), and the risks and benefits surrounding such a controversial topic. We also elaborate on the reasons behind Nature’s call for a pause on all germline applications of gene editing in a clinical setting. Finally, we consider the idea of CRISPR being used to make superheroes. Be sure to tune in this episode and learn about the exciting (and frightening) possibilities of gene editing, and why it’s on course to bring about a paradigm shift in medicine!

#1: Are Genes Really What We Think They Are?

Alireza Khademi and Julian Calderon-Espinosa — Sun, 05 Jan 2020 17:27:14 -0500

On the first episode of the Gene Panel Podcast, Alireza and Julian briefly introduce themselves as well as the podcast. They describe the podcast’s genesis story and the motivation behind starting a show that stars everything genetics. Importantly, to set the precedent for future discussions regarding genetics, this pilot episode serves to define what a “gene” is by taking a brief look at the dynamic history of genetics all the way from the 1800s till the modern day. The pair also commentate on a talk given by Gerald Fink, who is a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, who discusses the protein-oriented definition of a gene (i.e. the Central Dogma) and how significant such a definition has been in the advancement of many issues, from human health to climate change. However, as more research is done in the field of molecular genetics, we learn that a protein-oriented definition of a gene is not entirely all-encompassing…

http://news.mit.edu/2019/evolving-definition-gene-gerald-fink-killian-lecture-0405