In our first episode, we interface with Dr. Peter Zandstra on the future of medicine, the promise of the school, competitive rowing, and his flamingo-pink office as a first-time PI. We also discuss SBME’s new home, a state-of-the-art facility that is agile, ever-evolving, and devoid of scientific or academic boundary.

Working with partners across UBC, the SBME is building Western Canada’s new hub for transformative Biomedical Engineering education and research.

Learn more about Canada’s Living Laboratory here

Guest Bio: Dr. Peter Zandstra
Canada Research Chair in Stem Cell Engineering
Director & Professor, UBC School of Biomedical Engineering
Director & Professor, Michael Smith Laboratories

Dr. Zandstra is internationally recognized for his distinguished contributions to the field of biomedical engineering. His research is advancing our fundamental understanding of how cells process information to make developmental decisions, while also leveraging this understanding to develop new cell-based biotechnologies to treat diseases such as leukemia. Dr. Zandstra is also driving the development and clinical testing of new therapies through Canadian biotechnology companies. A leader in cell and gene therapy manufacturing, Dr. Zandstra is catalyzing the growth of BME research, awareness and education across Canada and around the world.

Hosts
Payam Zahedi
Strategic Planning & Operations Director, School of Biomedical Engineering

Payam is a born problem solver and dot connector who believes that real impact only occurs when everyone is given the means to chase it. He's the Director of Strategic Planning and Operations at UBC's School of Biomedical Engineering and holds a BASc in Biomedical Engineering and an MSc and PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, from the University of Toronto. He believes we are better together and is an advocate for equity and inclusivity. In his spare time, when he's not chasing his two sons around, he's experimenting in the kitchen, reading crime fiction and untangling the mechanisms of effective leadership.

Miguel Eichelberger
Communications & Engagement Manager, School of Biomedical Engineering

Miguel is an unflinching optimist. He is a communicator and writer whose work has appeared in literary magazines and on stages around the world. His most recent publications include Harpur Palate, the Literary Review of Canada, Plainsongs Magazine, and Soliloquies Anthology. He believes in authenticity; in doing and saying what you actually believe, and he is an obsessive student of leadership from the biological and anthropological perspectives. You've likely heard him rant about it, and he's not sorry.