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
#20 - Transforming Cancer Genomics: the Vision for an Inclusive Future - With Dr Bharat Kwatra
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This episode of the DASL Podcast features a conversation with Dr Bharat Kwatra, a computational biologist working at the intersection of cancer genomics, artificial intelligence, and precision oncology. With experience spanning academia, global research collaborations, and innovation-driven projects, Bharat focuses on developing computational tools that improve patient outcomes, particularly for rare and underserved cancer populations.
In this episode, Bharat shares his journey into computational biology, the role of mentorship in shaping his career, and how curiosity, persistence, and continuous learning helped him navigate opportunities across countries and disciplines. He also discusses the transformative potential of AI in healthcare — from clinical trial matching systems to personalized treatment strategies — and how technology can be leveraged to reduce inequities in access to care.
A central theme of the conversation is equity: expanding opportunities for underrepresented scientists, improving access to clinical trials, and addressing systemic barriers in healthcare systems worldwide. Bharat also reflects on his mentorship philosophy, his experience mentoring hundreds of students globally, and his vision for a more inclusive scientific ecosystem.
This episode offers insights for scientists, trainees, and innovators interested in the future of precision medicine, the power of mentorship, and the role each of us can play in advancing equity in science and healthcare.
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.