Laura L. Kiessling: Chemical Biology, Carbohydrates and Women in Science

03/01/24 • 58 min

Back of the Napkin - Inspiring Stories from Biotech Pioneers

Laura Kiessling is the Novartis Professor of Chemistry at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In this episode of Back of the Napkin, beginning in Laura's art-adorned office at MIT, the conversation explores her journey from a small Wisconsin town to the pinnacles of scientific research and education at MIT.

Laura's professional trajectory is a testament to her passion for science — from her top performance in a university chemistry class to her inspired transfer to MIT following a serendipitous spring break encounter with women doing amazing science in Boston. Her curiosity about the unknown and desire to push boundaries in chemistry led her to explore the intricate world of carbohydrates and their profound impact on diseases such as tuberculosis.

Laura has advised approximately 100 graduate students and postdoctorates and emphasizes that the essence of scientific progress is distilled not only through individual brilliance but also through the profound impact of community, collaboration, and mentorship. Laura is not only a proponent but a role model for women in science, advocating for equal representation, mentorship, and recognition. Her narrative is punctuated with instances where she challenged the norms and paved the way for others to follow.

Links:

Lessons in Chemistry Book: https://bit.ly/3wCnTGS

Publication - Glycan-costumed virus-like particles promote type 1 anti-tumor immunity: https://bit.ly/49UWxdr

Laura's Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChemicalBiology

Links:

Lessons in Chemistry Book: https://bit.ly/3wCnTGS

Publication - Glycan-costumed virus-like particles promote type 1 anti-tumor immunity: https://bit.ly/49UWxdr

Laura's Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChemicalBiology

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Season One Recap - Back of the Napkin

We are delighted to announce that Season 2 is on the horizon!

As we work to bring you more great conversations, let’s reflect on the most valuable discussions from a stand-out Season 1.

In this episode, we revisit essential topics like ideation, collaboration, entrepreneurship, and the future of drug discovery.

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Kevan Shokat: Drugging the "Undruggable" KRAS

Kevan M. Shokat is Professor in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of California Berkeley (UCB), and an Investigator with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). In this episode of Back of the Napkin reveals the pivotal moments and influences that have shaped his career as an academic and an entrepreneur.

The conversation takes us from Kevan's early interest in chemistry, spurred by his childhood experiences in his parents' print shop, to the present day, where his laboratory at UCSF is pushing the boundaries of what was once deemed impossible in targeting key oncogenes. Listeners will discover the compelling story of a scientist whose relentless quest has been to break down fantastical goals into attainable, logical steps. This episode not only captures Kevan's intellectual odyssey but also underscores the power of interdisciplinary thinking and steadfast perseverance in unraveling nature's deepest mysteries.

Follow Kevan: @kevansf

Follow Alex: @MoloneyAlex