Graduate women in science (GWIS) podcasts

Excited to introduce Dr. Sushma D.A. Hallock on our latest episode of "Graduate Women in Science"! Dive into the mind of a leader who merges the worlds of science and business with unmatched finesse. From her groundbreaking work to her commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, discover how Dr. Hallock is paving the way for the next generation.

Strap in for a rollercoaster ride with the dynamic Meredith Sibley on GWIS! Hailing from the high-stakes world of biologic and pharmaceutical development, Meredith is a titan in the field, armed with a dazzling biochemistry degree from Brown University and a PMP certification to boot. She's been everywhere, from drug development frontlines to the nerve-wracking trenches of risk management, making waves and breaking barriers. Get ready for an episode brimming with groundbreaking tales, invaluable lessons, and a splash of science magic, all shared by the unparalleled Meredith Sibley. This isn't just a podcast episode—it's your ticket to the front row of pharmaceutical innovation!

Charlotte Sadaka's career is a remarkable tapestry of scientific achievement and leadership in the life sciences sector. With a Ph.D. in Immunology from the esteemed Curie Institute in Paris, she embarked on a journey that took her from postdoctoral research on groundbreaking immunology to a pivotal role in biotech innovation. At Sorrento Therapeutics in San Diego, Charlotte led complex, cross-functional projects, notably in DNA-based technology and cell therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease. Her work, characterized by innovative solutions and strategic management, was instrumental in advancing pandemic response projects under DARPA funding. Charlotte's journey not only showcases her scientific prowess but also her skill in steering projects to success, earning her multiple accolades and patents, and cementing her as a luminary in the biotech landscape.

Join us on 'Voices of Resilience,' where we explore the inspiring journey of Ricki Fairley, a Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivor turned passionate advocate. In this episode, we delve into Ricki's transformative initiatives as the CEO of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, her groundbreaking movements like 'When We Tri(al)' and 'For The Love of My Gurls,' and her relentless efforts to reduce the mortality rate for Black women. Discover the powerful story of a seasoned marketing veteran who turned adversity into advocacy, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of breast cancer research. Tune in as we unravel Ricki's impactful work and her commitment to bringing focus, attention, and action to eradicating Black Breast Cancer.

Today on GWIS podcast, we are thrilled to have Shrinidhi Ramasubramanian, a computer science engineer from UCI, as our guest. Shrinidhi is a driven and talented individual with a passion for technology and engineering. With a successful start to her career at Hyperloop and now at Mercedes Benz, she brings a wealth of experience to the show. Join us as we delve into Shrinidhi's journey to becoming an engineer, her transition from academia to the workforce, and her future aspirations. It promises to be a fascinating discussion, so don't miss out! We welcome your thoughts and feedback after the show.

Kendi Mwenda, a serial entrepreneur from Nairobi, Kenya shares her adventurous journey that led her to Co-found and be the Principal Designer at Poiema Interiors Limited. Post completion of bachelors degree in Science, Mathematics and Botany, she started her career as the director of client services at Fanaka Catering and events. She started her entrepreneurial journey with Tabasamu Gifts right before the pandemic hit. Kendi Mwenda, through Poiema Interiors Limited, is surfing the wave of change in the construction industry in Kenya.

JoAnn T. Jackson aka Jo, world's very first Vision Realization Officer (VRO), shares her adventurous journey that lead her to IPM, a place she calls her "Professional home". Over the years, she has helped IPM grow from a three-person firm in a 650-square-foot office to the national company it is today.

As IPM's Vision Realization Officer, Jo investigates, recommends, and implements strategies to help realize IPM’s vision of becoming a hundred-year company. Jo began her career with 10 years at a division of Johnson & Johnson, the last three years with IPM founder Rich Panico, and culminating as Plant Controller. Jo spent several years operating as an independent accounting service. She holds a Bachelors in Science and an MBA from Eastern Illinois University. She serves on the Board of Trustees of Everest Academy Lemont, is active in her church community, and serves on a variety of boards and committees.

Dr. Shenda Baker is an experienced entrepreneur, inventor and a scientist with expertise in polymer physics, macromolecular and surface chemistry and nanostructured materials. Dr Baker served as CEO for Synspira, bringing the first Synedgen licensed technology into clinical trials for inhaled treatment for patients with cystic fibrosis. Dr. Baker was a professor of Chemistry at Harvey Mudd College from 1991-2014 with a research focus on polymer nanostructures and self-assembly at liquid and solid interfaces. She has held strategic positions on the Board of Directors of the Materials Research Society and has served on advisory boards with the National Institutes of Health at the National Institutie for Dental and Cranofacial Research, National Science Foundation at the directorates of Math and Physical Sciences, Computer and Information Science and Engineering, the Advisory Committee for Cyber Infrastructure and at the Department of Energy. Dr. Baker is a member of the American Chemical Society and the Materials Research Society and currently serves on the Advisory Council of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research of the NIH. 

This episode features a curious engineer from NASA passionate about earth science missions. Rachel Trabert started at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) as an Integration and Test Engineer and now works as an ATLO Systems Engineer for Europa Clipper. She has been with NASA JPL for over 8 years now. She has her Master in atmospheric, oceanic and space sciences and her bachelors in aerospace engineering from University of Michigan.

This episode features Dr. Ingeborg Kendall Maranto, an educator who has guided and motivated students for improvement through team building, mentoring and cross-training in support of their leadership abilities and personal growth for 32 years. Dr. Maranto is the Senior Adjunct Professor, University of La Verne, ULV Faculty Committee, Undergraduate Admission & Financial Aid Consultant, ICER. In the classroom she strives to foster strategic thinking, planning, problem solving and uniting into achieving a common, long term vision. Dr. Maranto has helped initiate many collaborations for key corporate alliances in support of improving educational access to adult learners. She has an impressive career record, holds many memberships and affiliations with respected institutions around the world Like and her expansive work and career has been featured in numerous publications such as the National Center for Atmospheric Research, THE UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHER MAGAZINE, ORANGE COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL, GLOBAL BUSINESS TRENDS etc…She is frequently requested to consult with non-profit organizations in U.S.A. and Germany and deliver key notes on her expertise in strategic planning and operations.

She has her PhD in economic geography from university of Hawaii, Ed in organizational leadership from University of La Verne, MBA in marketing management University of Southern California, MA in Asian studies specializing in Chinese foreign trade management from university of Hawaii, BA in psychology concentrating in social and cultural psychology from the Pennsylvania state university and BSc in business administration from ULV. And she speaks 6 languages including German, French, Mandarin, Thai and Russian.

Dr. Tia Hexom is an inspirational leader leading the research and development team, as the vice president of scientific affairs at SiO2 material science. Dr. Hexom shares her passion and love for science and the journey she embarked upon post graduation. She talks about ways to bridge the gap between industry and academia and the quintessential skill sets that will make you shine as a person and in your profession! 

Dr. Hexom received her PhD in cell and molecular biology- neurobiology from Tulane University and her expansive work has been featured in numerous publications in reputed journals.

Dr. Brittany Barreto is an unconventional serial entrepreneur, who launched onto the startup scene as the CEO and Co-Founder of the revolutionary DNA-based dating app Pheramor and WeHaveChemistry, a web-based product for couples to discover their love alchemy. Soon she became a reputable thought leader, venture capitalist, and startup consultant. Dr. Barreto now has her sights on advancing the Femtech community through her latest world-changing venture – Femtech Focus. She has her phD in genetics from Bayers college of medicine and her expansive work and career has been featured in numerous publications such as the Houston Business Journal, The Greater Houston Partnership, and InnovationMap.

Gloriia Novikova, a PhD student studying Alzheimer's disease at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, shares her story of dedication and sacrifice as an international researcher with GWIS.  She reminds fellow researchers that life is a journey and not a destination as she emphasizes the importance of identifying our inner resources, connecting to the core of our being, and finding the value you bring to the world!

The week of February 16 through February 22, 2020 was National Engineering Week. As part of our National Engineering Week observation, Dr. Elizabeth Orwin chatted with GWIS Lead on her insights on teaching, student development, and leadership. Dr. Orwin is the chair of the Department of Engineering and director of the Engman Fellowship Program at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, CA.