Samoan Scientist Podcast

Dr. Saki is serving as the associate dean for the Faculty of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Otago. He is involved in leadership roles, research on antimicrobial resistance, and advocating for more Pacific people to pursue post-grad and PhD studies. He emphasizes the importance of networking and supporting Pacific students in their research endeavors.

Takeaways

• Leadership in Biomedical Sciences
• Research on Antimicrobial Resistance

Chapters

• 00:00 Leadership in Biomedical Sciences and Pacific Student Support
• 03:08 Research on Antimicrobial Resistance and Pacific Community Impact
• 13:47 Mentoring Pacific Students and Scholarships for Post-Grad Studies
• 17:43 Collaborative Research and Advocacy for Pacific Communities

The conversation covers the importance of infectious disease surveillance in Fiji, the impact of research on community health, and the journey of the researcher and the support from the community.

Takeaways

• Infectious Disease Surveillance
• Research and Impact on Community

Chapters

• 00:00 Infectious Disease Surveillance in Fiji
• 02:27 Impact of Research on Community Health
• 04:27 Journey and Community Support

The conversation covers various aspects of cell culture and molecular biology, including the use of bacteria, cell lines, techniques for analyzing data, and lab protocols. The discussion also touches on the use of waste bottles and the process of splitting cells.

Takeaways

• Cell lines are used in the lab as an alternative to live tissue for research purposes.
• Analyzing data using techniques like flow cytometry and luminescence is crucial for understanding the science behind diseases.

Chapters

• 00:00 Cell Culture and Molecular Biology
• 03:03 Lab Techniques and Protocols
• 09:12 Data Analysis and Techniques

Unlock the secrets behind the everyday research that shapes our understanding of viruses, immune responses, and cellular biology in this behind-the-scenes look at a cutting-edge immunology lab.In this episode, To'oa guides us through the vibrant world of a diverse research environment, revealing how scientists study everything from measles to bacteria, all while sharing the surprising tech that makes their work possible. Whether you're curious about how cells are cultured, the role of flow cytometry in immunology, or how new freezer tech helps preserve precious samples, this conversation shines a light on the vital science happening behind closed lab doors.You’ll discover the fascinating differences between PBMCs and immortalized cell lines, and why scientists prefer to grow cells in flasks instead of whole organs. To'oa shares real-world insights into the daily routines—checking cell confluency, splitting cultures, and staining for analysis—that keep research on track. Plus, explore groundbreaking tools like spectral flow cytometry, which allows researchers to analyze up to 24 markers at once — a game-changer for immune profiling.This episode unpacks how precision machines sort cells based on specific markers, enabling targeted experiments and new discoveries in infectious disease research. If you've ever wondered how scientists distinguish between healthy and infected cells or how fluorescence helps reveal hidden biological truths, this is your inside look.Perfect for students, science enthusiasts, or anyone eager to understand how laboratories push the boundaries of science, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the workings of a modern immunology research lab. Step past the protocols and into the world of cellular science where every day unlocks new mysteries of life and disease.Join us for a captivating journey into the science that’s shaping the future of medicine and microbiology — and learn how these tiny cells have the power to make a huge impact.

Originally recorded in June 2026 for 531pi's Island Time during Sāmoan Language Week.

I'm excited to share this interview here on the podcast. We talk about my journey as the Samoan Scientist, how my research explores the connections between traditional Samoan foods, genetics, and type 2 diabetes, and why making science accessible to Pacific communities matters. We also discuss the inspiration behind this podcast and my mission to bring health research out of the lab and into conversations that empower Pacific families to make informed decisions about their health.

The Problem Was Never Our Genetics

What if the key to better health for Pacific peoples wasn't a new diet trend or medication, but the foods our ancestors had been eating for generations?

In this episode, Samoan scientist Amy Maslen-Miller explores the traditional Samoan diet through both cultural knowledge and modern science. From talo, ufi, ulu, fa'i, niu, and seafood, to the umu cooking method and traditional food preservation practices, we uncover how ancestral food systems supported health long before the rise of chronic disease.

Amy also examines how colonisation, migration, and changing food environments transformed Pacific diets, contributing to the growing burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes seen today. Drawing on emerging research in nutrition, metabolic health, and Pacific genetics, she discusses why the problem was never our genes, and how traditional foods may offer important insights for improving health outcomes for future generations.

This episode explores culture, history, science, and the growing evidence that some of the most powerful health solutions may already exist within Pacific knowledge systems.

It has been over 7 years since I made an episode, but I am back!

This is a deep dive about my journey of identity and science starting from my childhood in the 90s to the present.