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All of us want to be absolute gene-iuses, but how do we get there?
The Applied Biosystem's Absolute Gene-ius Podcast dives into the minds of trailblazing scientists and innovators using tools like digital PCR, real-time qPCR, and sanger sequencing to unlock the secrets of genetic analysis.
Through inspiring stories, practical advice, and behind-the-scenes lab moments, we explore how today’s gene-iuses are pushing boundaries in genetics research. Whether you’re optimizing your own workflow or just love hearing how science moves from data to discovery and beyond, this podcast will help you think differently about the tools and people shaping the future of genetic analysis.
Stay curious and join us!
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Current season
Episode 16: When qPCR says negative—finding IBV with digital PCR
University of Calgary researcher Fathima Ishara Isham joins the Absolute Gene-ius hosts to explore infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a coronavirus that affects poultry health and egg production, and to discuss her research comparing qPCR and digital PCR for viral detection. The conversation also covers IBV persistence, experimental challenges, and how greater analytical sensitivity could help researchers investigate low-level viral signals that qPCR may miss.
About Fathima Ishara Isham
Research Assistant Fathima Ishara Isham holds a M.Sc. in Veterinary Medical Sciences from the University of Calgary, and her research focuses on avian viral pathogenesis, host immune responses, and molecular diagnostics. These studies focus on how advanced PCR technologies, including digital PCR, are shaping our understanding of viral pathogenesis and host immune responses.
Episode notes
Chickens cough, coronaviruses persist, and molecular methods can reveal more than meets the eye. In this episode of Absolute Gene-ius, University of Calgary researcher Fathima Ishara Isham joins Lisa Crawford and Jordan Ruggieri to explore infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a coronavirus that affects poultry health and can disrupt egg production. Ishara explains how IBV can move beyond the respiratory tract, why vaccination strategies differ for broilers and layers, and the practical challenges of animal studies involving large sample sets and multiple time points.
She also walks through her study comparing qPCR and digital PCR for IBV detection, including quantification range, limit of detection, precision, specificity, and testing of real-world tissue, swab, air, water, and dust samples. Her findings highlight how digital PCR can detect low-level viral signals in samples that tested negative by qPCR, raising new questions about persistence and infectivity. In Career Corner, Ishara shares her path from Sri Lanka to Canada, the value of mentorship, and why saying “I don’t know” can be a strength. Plus, she recalls a proud cell-culture milestone and one illuminating immunofluorescence mistake.
Publications
Affiliation links
Episode 15: Better together—how qPCR and dPCR complement each other
Are qPCR and digital PCR competing technologies or complementary tools? In this Science Snapshot, we revisit conversations with researchers across multiple disciplines to explore how each PCR method brings distinct strengths, from high-throughput screening to ultra-sensitive absolute quantification.
Episode 14: Multiplexing qPCR without multiplying the complexity
Thermo Fisher Scientific field application scientist Dr. John Pfeifer explains the fundamental differences between PCR, real-time PCR, and digital PCR, including when each technology is most useful. He also shares practical guidance for designing, optimizing, and validating multiplex qPCR assays while improving throughput, sample efficiency, precision, and quality control.
About John Pfeifer
John Pfeifer graduated from Cornell University with a B.A. in genetics, graduated from the University of Alabama in Birmingham with a Ph.D. in molecular virology, held a postdoctoral position at Harvard University and then a research associate position at Baylor College of Medicine. John transitioned to industry in 1991, supporting PCR as a field applications scientist. He began supporting TaqMan chemistry in 1994 and in 1996 supporting real-time PCR from its inception. John was awarded Guardian of Science by Thermo Fisher Scientific. He lives in Texas.
Publications
Fun fact
During a real-time PCR training, a limp baby goat suffering from hypothermia was brought into the lab. Lab members had low expectations for survival. Nevertheless the goat was brought to the conference room to continue care. I felt the success or failure of my training depended on whether the goat lived or died. During my lecture about real-time PCR, the goat’s condition improved, so that by the end the goat was walking and behaving normally. This was probably the happiest I’ve ever felt at the end of a training.
Episode notes
PCR gets amplified, quantified, partitioned, and multiplexed in this practical tour through three decades of molecular biology innovation.
Dr. John Pfeifer, senior real-time PCR field application scientist at Thermo Fisher Scientific, joins Jordan and Lisa to explain how conventional PCR, qPCR, and digital PCR generate and interpret results differently. John describes real-time PCR as a versatile “Swiss army knife,” while digital PCR offers particular advantages for detecting rare targets against a high background. He then explores multiplexing, including how TaqMan assays use distinct fluorescent dyes to detect multiple targets in one reaction. The conversation covers the benefits of multiplexing for throughput, sample conservation, precision, and quality control, along with key considerations such as target abundance, Taq polymerase saturation, primer limitation, dye selection, mixed standard curves, and wet-lab validation.
In Career Corner, John traces his scientific curiosity from childhood books and theoretical physics to genetics, molecular virology, and PCR. He also recalls a demonstration gone wrong, a surprisingly restorative qPCR presentation involving Charles the goat, and the sales-rep conversation that changed his career.
Episode 13: Beyond the band—understanding copy number variation
Copy number variation (CNV) is one of the most important, and often overlooked, measurements in molecular biology. In this Science Snapshot, we revisit expert conversations to explore how digital PCR enables precise copy number analysis across gene editing, cell therapy, transplant monitoring, chromosomal biology, and beyond.
Episode 12: qPCR, nested PCR, and the search for bacterial serotypes
Donna Paznar joins Absolute Gene-ius to discuss her research on Streptococcus pneumoniae, including how children can serve as hidden reservoirs and why serotype tracking matters for understanding bacterial spread. She also shares how molecular tools such as qPCR, nested PCR, and sequencing support surveillance research, along with the tick-borne disease story that first drew her into science.
About Donna Paznar
Donna Paznar holds a BSc in Biology from Queen’s University, Canada, and completed her MSc in Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of Innsbruck. She is currently Head of Molecular Infection Diagnostics at the Department for Infection Diagnostics and Infection Epidemiology at the Medical University of Vienna. Driven by a genuine love of science and discovery, Donna is passionate about research that translates into real-world impact. Her work centers on developing and applying innovative molecular approaches to better understand infectious diseases, from diagnostics to epidemiology. With a curiosity-first mindset and a talent for improving laboratory practices, she enjoys bridging research, innovation, and practical problem-solving in the world of infection biology.
Fun fact
I am deeply committed to The Real Housewives – I analyze lab data by day and Bravo drama by night.
Episode notes
Some science stories start with a textbook. Donna Paznar’s started with a tick.
In this episode of Absolute Gene-ius, Donna Paznar, head of Molecular Infection Diagnostics at the Medical University of Vienna, discusses her work studying Streptococcus pneumoniae and its impact across the Austrian population. She explains why this respiratory bacterium can be especially dangerous for infants and older adults, how children may act as asymptomatic reservoirs, and why tracking more than 100 bacterial serotypes is both important and technically challenging. Donna also walks through the molecular methods behind her work, including qPCR for identifying positive samples, nested PCR for targeting more specific DNA regions, and sequencing to help confirm serotypes. Along the way, she highlights the complexity of surveillance research and the goal of developing more efficient multiplex qPCR approaches.
The career corner takes a fun turn into ticks, workplace cliques, qPCR mistakes, and a proud sleuthing moment involving a rare tick-borne pathogen. Donna’s advice is simple and useful: try opportunities, expect failure, and stay open-minded.
Affiliate links
Episode 11: How PCR, CRISPR, and animal models are advancing oncology research
This Science Snapshot episode highlights oncology research-related conversations from past Absolute Gene-ius interviews, featuring expert insights on CAR-T research, CRISPR-generated animal models, cell-free DNA, circulating tumor DNA, and multiplex digital PCR assay design. Together, the clips show how molecular biology tools are helping researchers ask better questions and study cancer with greater analytical sensitivity, precision, and biological relevance.
Episode 10: Genotoxicity, vectors, and the power of integration site analysis
Integration site analysis is becoming a critical tool in evaluating the safety of gene therapies, but how does it actually work, and when does it matter most? Michael Stump and Matteo Franco of ProtaGene break down the science, the risk, and the evolving role of CROs in this rapidly changing field.
About Michael Stump, PhD
Mike is PhD-level scientist with a mixed background in science and business, serving 20+ years in the CRO/laboratory services industries. Most recently, Mike served ~3.5 years in WuXi’s Advanced Therapies group, where he held positions of Executive Director, Global Head of Key accounts and Executive, Director, Testing Operations. In his two roles at WuXi, Mike was responsible for holding relationships with the top 20 pharma clients, overseeing day-to-day testing operations, and managing the Advanced Therapy segment’s P&L. Previously, Mike also held positions with increasing responsibility at SME Bio, Eurofins, LabConnect, and Inotiv (f.k.a. BASI). Mike received his PhD from the University of Arkansas in Bioanalytical Chemistry and a BS in Chemistry and Accounting from Millersville University of Pennsylvania.
Fun fact
I tried to convince myself that I could play professional volleyball at a towering height of 5’8”!
About Matteo Franco
Matteo Franco is a Lead Scientist at ProtaGene, which he joined in May 2018. With a strong background in virology, gene therapy, and assay development, he has contributed to the creation of several assays in the company's portfolio. Before ProtaGene, Mr. Franco earned a BSc in Biotechnology from Alma Mater Studiorum Bologna and worked at the Vectorology Facility at the Children's Medical Research Institute (CMRI) in Sydney. His expertise spans integration site analysis, GxP regulations, AAV packaging, and various sequencing and PCR-based technologies. He has worked on over 25 client projects, from research to clinical stages, and has contributed to numerous publications and presentations at major conferences like ASGCT and ESGCT.
Publications
Fun fact
Before getting into science, I wanted to go into computer programming, but I ultimately decided to keep that and computers as a hobby. Turns out, there is a lot of in silico processing in genomics, so at the end my job still involves a lot of computing and some coding too.
Affiliate links
Episode 9: From brewing to bioprocessing—Steve Lewis on molecular biology trends
In this crossover episode, Absolute Gene-ius welcomes Steve Lewis, host of Speaking of Mol Bio and Director of Product Management at Thermo Fisher Scientific, for a wide-ranging conversation about PCR, molecular biology workflows, sustainability, and the science behind lab plastics.
About Steve Lewis
Steve is a Director of Product Management at Thermo Fisher Scientific leading service innovation digital products and platforms. He is also the host of the Speaking of Mol Bio podcast. He previously led federal IT systems integration programs for U.S. national laboratories supporting the DoD, DHS, and USDA. He directed biosecurity teams in BSL-3 and BSL-4 environments, delivering enterprise systems and operational platforms for mission-critical work.
Episode notes
PCR may be decades old, but it is still one of the most versatile tools in modern molecular biology.
In this crossover episode, Absolute Gene-ius welcomes Steve Lewis, host of Speaking of Mol Bio and Director of Product Management at Thermo Fisher Scientific. Steve discusses why PCR remains so broadly relevant across research and applied science, from human identification and food testing to gene synthesis and molecular characterization. He also explores emerging trends shaping molecular biology workflows, including multiplexing, assay design, customization, miniaturization, and the ongoing need for high-quality PCR plastics. The conversation also digs into sustainability in the lab, including why single-use plastics remain important for reducing contamination risk and how more sustainable material sourcing can help reduce carbon impact without compromising performance.
In Career Corner, Steve shares a winding path that started in communications, moved through startups and home brewing, and eventually led to bioprocessing, biosecurity, synthetic biology, and product management. His advice? Cultivate curiosity, surround yourself with good people, and try not to drop your E. coli flask.
Publications and patents
Episode 8: Epigenetics unlocked—how behavior shapes biology
Epigenetics reveals how environment and behavior shape gene expression without altering DNA. In this episode, Dr. Robert Philibert explores how these changes drive disease and how we can measure and modify them for better health outcomes.
About Robert Philibert
Dr. Philibert completed his MD PhD and Psychiatry training at the University of Iowa. Subsequently, he completed six years of fellowship at the National Institutes of Health, then returned to Iowa, where he maintains a part-time appointments in Psychiatry, Genetics, Molecular Medicine, Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, as well as a busy research lab. He has over 200 peer reviewed publications, numerous patents and grants, and has founded or co-founded two companies, including Cardio Diagnostics, which listed on NASDAQ in 2022, and Behavioral Diagnostics, the market leader in holistic epigenetic approaches for assessments of aging, smoking, drinking and cancer prevention.
Fun fact
Probably the most fun facts about me are 1) I still do many of my own experiments, and 2) my favorite place to work is my academic office which has not been modified in over 30 years is strewn with the pictures and memorabilia of my children who spent many afternoons and evening here while I worked. It is truly a life journey that I have been privileged to have, and I firmly believe that the best is yet to come.
Episode notes
Dr. Robert Philibert joins the show to unpack the fascinating world of epigenetics, where environmental factors like smoking, alcohol, and lifestyle reshape how genes are expressed. He explains how methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin structure act as regulatory layers on top of DNA, influencing disease risk far more than previously thought. The conversation dives into how technologies like bisulfite conversion and digital PCR enable precise measurement of these changes, transforming epigenetic signals into actionable data. Dr. Philibert also highlights real-world applications, from detecting behavioral risk factors to enabling early disease biomarkers, emphasizing how epigenetics can’t be “gamed” like traditional reporting methods, making it a powerful tool for precision health interventions.
From spilled drink mishaps to science fiction inspiration, the career corner brings humor and humanity. Dr. Philibert reflects on mentorship, passion, and the joy of seeing students turn ideas into impactful innovations, proving that science is as much about people as it is about discovery.
Affiliation links
Publications
Episode 7: Multiplexing in action—from simplicity to scientific complexity
PCR multiplexing enables scientists to measure multiple DNA or RNA targets in a single reaction, unlocking more insight from limited samples. This episode revisits real-world examples showing how multiplexing expands experimental design, improves precision, and simplifies complex workflows.
Episode notes
Multiplexing is reshaping how scientists think about PCR experiments, turning single-target workflows into powerful, multi-dimensional analyses.
In this Science Snapshot, we revisit standout moments from past episodes to explore how multiplexing is applied across research areas, from measuring interferon-related genes in lupus to analyzing complex microbial communities and detecting low-level donor-derived DNA.
Guests highlight both the opportunities and challenges, including assay design, probe optimization, and troubleshooting strategies. The episode also showcases how multiplexing enables entirely new applications, such as comparing chromosome ratios, assessing molecular integrity, and distinguishing functional mRNA from truncated byproducts. Whether using qPCR or digital PCR, multiplexing allows researchers to extract more information per sample, improve precision through multiple data points, and better reflect biological complexity. As platforms and chemistries continue to evolve, multiplexing is becoming more accessible, helping scientists move faster, conserve material, and focus more on interpreting results rather than optimizing reactions.
Episode 6: Finding the cheat codes to cell identity
Fiona Connolly joins Absolute Gene-ius to explore how deterministic programming of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is transforming disease modeling and drug discovery. She explains how genetic “cheat codes,” automation, and digital PCR are driving consistent, scalable production of highly defined human cell types.
About Fiona Connolly
Fiona Connolly joins us as a previous Scientist at bit.bio, a University of Cambridge spin-off that designs and manufactures human cells to advance drug discovery and biomedical research. With 10+ years spanning academia and biotech, she works across the gap between engineering and biology, both in synthetic, cell biology and automation engineering. Now, she drives the implementation of new technologies and instruments that scale iPSC manufacturing and characterization. She champions innovation that accelerates scientific discovery and she has utilized dPCR validation in ensuring quantitative quality control to confirm the successful integration of bit.bio’s opti-ox™ deterministic cell programming technology in iPSCs. With opti-ox present in every stem cell, the whole population is precisely and consistently programmed into a new defined cell type. The consistency of these cells provides reliability that enables scientists to conduct repeatable and scalable experiments in drug discovery and disease research.
Fun fact
When not tinkering with new instruments and assays in the lab, she is tinkering at home, with 3D printing everything from custom labware to her plant pots and Christmas decorations.
Episode notes
In this episode, Fiona Connolly, Platform Innovation and Automation Scientist previously at bit.bio, explains how deterministic programming replaces the traditional “pinball machine” model of stem cell differentiation with precise genetic instructions. By identifying the exact transcription factor combinations, the “cheat codes” that define specific cell fates. Bit.bio’s team engineer induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to reliably become neurons, oligodendrocyte-like cells, and other specialized types. She discusses how digital PCR enables accurate transgene copy number validation and multiplexed screening of hundreds of clones, while RNA-seq and qPCR confirm expression fingerprints. The result? Consistent, scalable, high-quality human cell models that accelerate disease research, particularly in areas like neurodegeneration and multiple sclerosis while reducing reliance on animal models.
In Career Corner, Fiona shares her journey from curious “why” kid to molecular biologist obsessed with CRISPR, synthetic biology, robotics, and automation. Her advice: don’t over-optimize your linear career path. Stay pluripotent, explore interdisciplinary skills, embrace new tech, and let curiosity guide the way.
Affiliate links
Publications
Episode 5: Science Snapshot: Science happens, and so do mistakes
Every scientist has a lab fail they’ll never forget. In this Science Snapshot “best of” episode, Absolute Gene-ius revisits unforgettable lab mishaps recounted by past guests. From explosive chemistry to PCR mix-ups, and the hard-won lessons that come with them.
Episode notes
Science doesn’t just advance through breakthroughs, it advances through mistakes. This Science Snapshot episode embraces a universal truth of research: if you haven’t messed something up in the lab, you probably haven’t been there very long. From chemical reactions gone wrong to experiments derailed by one small oversight, these stories are as relatable as they are unforgettable.
In this curated “best of” revisit, Absolute Gene-ius brings together candid lab-fail moments shared by past guests across multiple seasons. You’ll hear stories involving exothermic sodium hydroxide reactions, PCR screening disasters caused by a simple reagent mix-up, forgotten spike-ins during RNA-seq prep, accidental sequencing of human DNA instead of plant viruses, and even being locked inside a cold room on the first week in a new lab. Along the way, the episode highlights the science behind each mistake and the importance of lab safety while reinforcing an important message for scientists at every stage: failure is part of the process, and every mistake becomes a lesson worth remembering.
Episode 4: Almost a virus—how AAV powers modern gene therapy
In this episode, the hosts sit down with Dr. Dan Mitchell of Matica Biotechnology to explore how viral vectors are engineered, analyzed, and manufactured for cell and gene therapy. The conversation spans CDMO workflows, AAV biology, and the critical role of qPCR and digital PCR in helping ensure safety, quality, and performance.
About Dan Mitchell
Dr. Mitchell is the Head of Analytical Development and Quality Control at Matica Biotechnology. Matica is a CDMO specializing in viral vectors and serves clients with a variety of capabilities from analytical and process development to manufacturing and releasing product batches. Daniel has been working with numerous viral systems for over 23 years and has held positions in government, academic, and private institutions. During this time, Daniel has worked in Biosafety level 2, 3, and 4 laboratories with multiple viruses from AAV to Ebola.
Fun fact
My fascination with viruses began in my early undergraduate years, and it became a dream of mine to work in a BSL4 laboratory.
Episode notes
Viruses are not always something to fear; they can also be tools to heal. This episode looks into this positive side of viral biology.
Dr. Dan Mitchell, Senior Director of Analytical Development and Quality Control at Matica Biotechnology, joins the show to unpack the science and strategy behind viral vector manufacturing in a CDMO environment. He explains what CDMOs do, how they support cell and gene therapy programs at every stage, and why AAV has become such a powerful delivery vehicle. Dan dives deep into analytical development, describing how technologies like qPCR and digital PCR are used to quantify viral genomes, assess empty-to-full ratios, detect residual host cell DNA, and identify rare recombination events. He also discusses how sequencing, infectivity assays, and orthogonal analytics come together to ensure safety, potency, and regulatory readiness.
In Lisa’s Career Corner, Dan traces his path from marine biology curiosity to high-containment virology labs, pressure suits included. He encourages young scientists to get into the lab early, embrace failure as learning, stay curious and find the patience it takes to succeed in science.
Affiliate links
Publications
Episode 3: From discovery to monitoring—how sequencing and PCR work together in oncology research
Dr. Kathie Sollweck, Senior Medical Affairs Manager for Oncology at Thermo Fisher Scientific, joins the Absolute Gene-ius team to explore how liquid biopsy, sequencing, and PCR are transforming precision oncology research. The conversation spans unmet needs in cancer research, MRD monitoring, and a candid look at career paths beyond academia.
About Katharina Sollweck
Katharina Sollweck is a molecular biologist and medical affairs professional specializing in genetic analysis and precision oncology. With a PhD in Bioanalytics from the Technical University of Munich, she combines scientific expertise in next-generation sequencing and digital PCR with strategic leadership in customer engagement and clinical innovation. At Thermo Fisher Scientific, she leads precision medicine initiatives across EMEA, collaborating with pharmaceutical partners, policy makers, and research networks. Katharina’s background spans oncology, pharma, and environmental sciences with a passion for connecting science, technology, and people.
Episode notes
In this episode of Absolute Gene-ius, the hosts dive into the evolving world of precision oncology research, where detecting rare molecular signals can make all the difference.
Dr. Kathie Sollweck brings deep expertise from her work in medical affairs and oncology to explain how modern molecular tools are reshaping cancer research. She breaks down liquid biopsy approaches, including cell-free DNA and circulating tumor cells, and explains why sensitivity and pre-analytics are critical when working with low-abundance targets. Kathie also clarifies how sequencing acts as a wide-angle discovery tool, while digital PCR serves as a laser-focused research method for ultra-sensitive monitoring of known mutations, therapy resistance, and minimal residual disease (MRD). Together, these technologies enable more personalized, precise, and less invasive cancer monitoring strategies.
The episode wraps with a fun and refreshingly honest Career Corner, where Kathie shares her non-linear journey from an aspiring actress to botanist to oncology expert. Her advice? Don’t fear sales roles, stay open to unexpected opportunities, and let curiosity guide your career because you never know where it might take you.
Affiliate links
Episode 2: Science Snapshot: When PCR gets dirty—tackling PCR inhibitors
PCR inhibitors are a hidden but pervasive challenge across environmental testing, wastewater surveillance, and gene therapy workflows. In this first Science Snapshot episode, the Absolute Gene-ius team revisits insights from multiple experts to explain how digital PCR helps overcome inhibition and helps deliver more reliable quantification.
Episode notes
PCR inhibitors are everywhere and they can definitely mess with your data. From muddy lake water to complex viral vector preparations, inhibition is a reality that can’t be ignored.
In this inaugural Absolute Gene-ius: Science Snapshot, hosts Jordan Ruggieri and Lisa Crawford revisit standout moments from past seasons to explore how scientists across disciplines deal with PCR inhibition. Through clips from experts working in wastewater surveillance, environmental microbiology, and gene therapy manufacturing, the episode highlights why inhibitors distort qPCR results and how sample preparation alone doesn’t always solve the problem. Guests including Ray Ketchum, Sarah Philo, Patrick Hanington, Dave Bauer, Kimberly Gomez, and Min Jin Kim explain both the biological sources of inhibition and the technical reasons digital PCR is more resilient. Together, these perspectives paint a clear picture of why dPCR is becoming the method of choice when overcoming inhibitors is required.
Episode 1: Tracking grape pathogens from air to vine
In this season-opening episode of Absolute Gene-ius, hosts Jordan Ruggieri and Lisa Crawford talk with Lexi Heger, PhD candidate at Michigan State University, about applying qPCR and dPCR to understand and manage devastating grapevine pathogens. From spore trapping to fungicide resistance, Lexi shares how molecular tools are helping agriculture go greener and smarter.
About Lexi Heger
Lexi Heger is a PhD candidate at Michigan State University working toward a dual degree in molecular plant sciences and plant pathology. During her program in plant pathology, Lexi has focused on grapevine downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) diagnostic tool development, air sampling for pathogens in Michigan, and using GWAS to investigate pathogen resistance in grapevine. She received her bachelor’s degree in horticulture from The Ohio State University before joining the Miles Small Fruit and Hop Pathology lab at MSU in 2020.
Episode notes
What do vineyards, airborne spores, and digital PCR have in common? Turns out—quite a lot. This episode kicks off Season 4 by going green with plant pathology and molecular diagnostics.
Lexi Heger, a PhD candidate in plant pathology and molecular plant sciences at Michigan State University, joins the show to discuss her work on grapevine diseases, particularly downy mildew caused by Plasmopara viticola. Lexi explains how she developed qPCR assays to differentiate cryptic pathogen clades, redesigned multiplex assays to track multiple grape pathogens simultaneously, and explored how digital PCR can add value when sensitivity really matters, like when detecting rare alleles linked to fungicide resistance. The conversation dives into real-world challenges like sampling air, plant, and soil environments, managing PCR inhibitors, and translating academic research into actionable tools for growers. Together, Jordan, Lisa, and Lexi highlight why qPCR and dPCR aren’t competing technologies, but complementary tools that support smarter disease management in agriculture.
In Career Corner, Lexi reflects on her lifelong love of plants, the joy of gardening, and the mentors who helped cultivate her scientific curiosity. From killing plants “to save them,” to embracing plant puns and favorite pathogens, this segment is a reminder that great science often grows from genuine passion, and a little dirt under your fingernails.
Affiliate links
Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University
Publications
Meet the hosts
Jordan Ruggieri
Jordan Ruggieri, while not a self-proclaimed “gene-ius”, received his B.S. in Biological Sciences from Cal State Fullerton and his MBA from Cal State Monterey Bay. At Cal State Fullerton he served as a President’s Scholar and spent three years in a research lab studying manganese oxidation in bacteria for potential bioremediation purposes. He has spent ten years working in the biotechnology industry holding positions in both research & development and product marketing across the life science and clinical diagnostics markets. Jordan is currently a Global Marketing Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific overseeing the real-time and digital PCR instrument product lines. He loves telling stories about how scientists use these technologies for incredible applications that enable positive change across the globe. Jordan is a nerd at heart and loves to read, his favorite series being The Wheel of Time, The Stormlight Archive, and The Lord of the Rings.
Publications
Lisa Crawford
Lisa Crawford is a Global Market Development Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific, specializing in content development for the academic research market. With more than a decade of experience in marketing and advertising, Lisa has a passion for storytelling and turning complex science into meaningful stories of human perseverance and connection. She has a Master's degree in International Marketing from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Arizona, where she lives with her boyfriend, two cats, and a dog. Outside of work she loves cooking, traveling, and utilizing her skills as a classically-trained cellist to perform with her local community orchestra.
