DASL Podcast
The DASL podcast is a project designed by Dr. Silvia Vicenzi to elevate the stories of underrepresented trainees at UCSD who have braved challenges and discrimination in their lives and careers. This platform aims to empower individuals by sharing their experiences and the strategies they used to navigate and overcome such obstacles. The objective is to provide insights and inspiration, with the anticipated outcome being a source of motivation and guidance for trainees facing similar challenges. DASL at UCSD has already made significant contributions to promoting diversity and enhancing rights within higher education. The DASL Podcast represents a forward-thinking approach to storytelling and mentorship that will make a lasting impact on our community.
We are extremely thankful to the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Diversity Grant for funding the DASL Podcast Series, among many other projects (https://chanzuckerberg.com/). DASL stands for The Diversity and Science Lecture Series (https://www.ucsddasl.com/).
Are you interested in sharing your story on the DASL Podcast? Nominate yourself or someone you know to be a guest by filling out our intake form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdMipiFRpxpWj_IEDte8mBAKA9n7BCe2ylBLNNY_H6zTE5Ogg/viewform.
We’re excited to feature voices that inspire, empower, and contribute to our diverse community.
DASL Podcast
Ep. 8 - Interview with Dr. Arash Fassihi
The podcast episode features an interview with Dr. Arash Fassihi, a project scientist in the Kleinfeld Laboratory at UC San Diego, where he investigates orofacial movements in rats and explores how the brainstem coordinates complex neural circuitry. In this episode, Dr. Fassihi shares his remarkable academic journey, spanning Iran, Italy, and the U.S., discussing how a pivotal talk on neuronal communication inspired his lifelong fascination with understanding how the brain perceives the external world and translates it into action. He highlights his significant contributions to neuroscience and emphasizes the value of knowing when to let go of an idea, especially when time and resources aren’t right, and how focusing on what truly matters—health and freedom—can provide clarity and purpose. Dr. Fassihi further reflects on how living across three distinct cultures has shaped his personal and scientific perspectives. He discusses the systemic challenges he faced as an Iranian, including visa restrictions, limited travel, and discrimination, and offers profound insights into the importance of appreciating rights that others may take for granted. Dr. Fassihi also shares his strategies for coping with these challenges, from embracing Iranian poetry and philosophy to adopting a broader perspective that emphasizes resilience, mindfulness, and finding strength in adversity. His story is a compelling testament to persistence, cultural adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of personal and systemic obstacles.
Are you interested in sharing your story on the DASL Podcast? Nominate yourself or someone you know to be a guest by filling out our intake form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdMipiFRpxpWj_IEDte8mBAKA9n7BCe2ylBLNNY_H6zTE5Ogg/viewform.
We’re excited to feature voices that inspire, empower, and contribute to our diverse community.