Ian Korf
Description: Ian Korf is a Professor at UC Davis who specializes in genomics and bioinformatics research and education. He is particularly interested in the information flow from genotype to phenotype. Colloquially, he regards this as writing software to read the book of life. When Ian isn't focused intently on his computer, he's focused intently on one of his many hobbies. In this episode we talk about viewing DNA as a language, the interdisciplinary nature of his lab and the important role it plays in field of genetics, and why you should never get an A+
Website: Ian Korf
Recent Publications:
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Show Notes:
[1:14] Intro
[2:19] What is Genetics
[3:51] Expansion on Research/Interdisciplinary Lab
[5:11] Do we need more students in interdisciplinary roles?
[6:47] Can we train students to be interdisciplinary interpreters or does it come with time?
[8:08] Genetics as a language?
[12:00] What do you do with the “readable” DNA sequences
[14:30] What are some of the problems you are trying to solve?
[19:24] Did you learn to dream big?
[20:24] Relationship between technological innovation and science
[23:37] Where do you see your field evolving in the future (AI)
[26:39] How could AI lead to increased creativity
[28:33] Subsurface Circular Game Story
[31:11] How have hobbies impacted your ability to ask interesting question
[33:47] General Advice/Mental Health
[38:49] What is one of your biggest academic failures
[41:40] Do professors’ similarity with subject matter sometimes inhibit their messaging?
[44:27] Is it possible to write a book in 30 Days
[50:45] Creativity as a muscle that needs repetition to grow
[54:55] Importance of phrasing subjects in a way that captures passion of students
[56:35] Importance of play in learning
[57:09] Are we cyborgs