QBI presents a seminar with Mohammed Mostajo-Radji, Assistant Research Scientist at the Genomics Institute at UCSC. Dr. Mostajo-Radji leads the Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, which develops cloud-based experimental science education technologies. He earned his PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology from Harvard University and completed postdoctoral training in Alex Pollen's lab at UCSF. Beyond academia, he has served as CEO of Science Clubs Bolivia, a nonprofit that has trained thousands of students in STEM fields. He also co-leads the Data Coordination Center for the SSPsyGene Consortium, an NIH initiative to characterize genetic mutations associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. He has received several awards, including the Google Cloud Research Innovator and the 25 Drivers of a New Economy awards.

Talk Title: Cloud-Enabled Live-Cell Biotechnology: Expanding Access to Experimental Science

Biotechnology has the potential to transform industries from healthcare to agriculture, yet access to biotechnology education remains starkly unequal worldwide. High costs, technical barriers, and safety concerns have historically limited hands-on experimentation, particularly in resource-limited regions. Cloud-enabled live-cell biotechnology is emerging as a powerful solution, allowing students to conduct real-time experiments using internet-connected laboratory equipment and open-source software. By integrating remote-access systems with improved pedagogical strategies and internet expansion efforts, these innovations are breaking down barriers to participation.

In his talk, Dr. Mostajo-Radji will focus on exploring how cloud-based biotechnology can democratize access to experimental science, foster international collaboration, and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Special emphasis will be placed on efforts to bring these technologies to underrepresented communities where remote educational solutions can have a profound impact.

Hosted by Bailor Barrie