Season 2 Episode 3 | The Science of the Brain’s Treasure Map | Dr. Jacopo Annese, Founder of The Brain Observatory and Human Brain Library

The Science of Podcast episode features Dr. Jacopo Annese, a neuroscientist who is the CEO and Founder of The Brain Observatory, discussing his work on human brain mapping and preservation. Dr. Annese explains his journey from studying zoology to neuroscience, emphasizing the importance of preserving brain tissue for scientific discovery. He describes the process of brain mapping, which involves slicing and digitizing brain samples, and highlights the variability in brain structures. Dr. Annese also discusses the potential of AI in analyzing brain data and the importance of building a global brain bank for personalized medicine. The episode concludes with Dr. Annese advising aspiring scientists to be resilient and independent.Introduction to the Science of Podcast SeriesSpeaker 1 introduces the podcast, emphasizing curiosity and the exploration of various scientific topics.The podcast is hosted by students from the Jackie Robinson Family YMCA and the Elementary Institute of Science.Partnerships include the UCSD Moores Cancer Center and the extended UCSD campus.Funding for the program is provided by SchoolCast, a cloudcast media program.Introduction to the Episode and GuestsSpeaker 2 welcomes listeners to the Science of Podcast series, focusing on human brain mapping and brain tissue preservation.Kelsey Lewis introduces herself and the co-hosts: Danielle-Elizabeth, Josue, and Max.The co-hosts express excitement about learning new things in each episode.Kelsey introduces the guest, Dr. Annese, and asks him to introduce himself.Dr. Jacopo's Background and JourneyDr. Annese shares his background, mentioning his friendship with Charles and their shared passion for education.He describes his journey from studying biology and zoology to mapping the human brain.Dr. Annese recounts his experience at a conference in Moscow where he saw a neuron for the first time, sparking his interest in neuroscience.He discusses his educational path, including his time at UC Davis and Dartmouth, and his transition to studying human brains.Dr. Jacopo's Work in Documentary ProjectsDr. Annese explains how he began to bring neuroscience to the screen due to media requests at UCSD.He shares his experience of telling his own story rather than letting others do it.Dr. Annese discusses the potential of scientists telling their own stories and the importance of communication in science.Rapid Fire Questions with Dr. AnneseDr. Annese answers questions about his inspirations, the most valuable thing he learned, his favorite animal, and his favorite place to study.He shares his appreciation for San Diego and his dream of having his own lab.Dr. Annese discusses his favorite place to study, mentioning London and Dartmouth.He talks about his favorite place in San Diego and his appreciation for the space it offers.Dr. Annese's Innovative Approach to Brain MappingDr. Annese explains his time-honored technique of brain mapping and preservation.He describes the process of slicing and preserving the brainDr. Annese discusses the importance of preserving the morphology of the brain and the challenges of working with human brains.He shares his experience of developing a relationship with brain donors and the emotional aspect of his work.Challenges and Breakthroughs in Brain MappingDr. Annese talks about the challenges of mapping the human brain due to its variability.He explains the importance of understanding the structural map of the brain and its connections.Dr. Annese discusses the potential of using AI to analyze brain data and make predictions.He shares his experience of building his own microscope and the importance of solving problems in research.Future of Brain Mapping and Personalized MedicineDr. Annese discusses the potential of using brain mapping to make predictions and improve clinical care.He explains the importance of having a large dataset of brains to understand disease progression.Dr. Annese shares his vision of creating a world brain bank and the challenges of running a nonprofit lab.He talks about the potential of using brain mapping to help patients and make accurate diagnoses.Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring ScientistsDr. Annese advises aspiring scientists to be resilient, rebellious, and confident in their own path.He emphasizes the importance of mentorship but also the need to think independently.Dr. Annese encourages students to explore and dissect brains to gain a deeper understanding of neuroscience.He shares his contact information and invites listeners to visit the Brain Observatory and learn more about his work.The Science Of is a student-produced podcast. The team members are Kelsey Lewis, Evan Sosa, Max Arola, August Ou, Danielle-Elizabeth Mensah-Baah, Zahraa Munaim, and Josue Castillo. The episode was engineered / mixed / mastered by Christelle Auzas from Cloudcast Media. About Cloudcast MediaAs the national leader in local podcasting, Cloudcast Media proudly produces "The Science Of" throught its SchoolCAST ...