Dr. Kelly Standifer, a distinguished neuropharmacology professor at the University of Oklahoma, brings to light her groundbreaking research on neuropeptides, particularly opioid peptides, and their pivotal role in pain management and brain injury recovery. Her passion for this field was sparked by a deeply personal experience—a near tragedy in her family that ignited her path toward studying pain and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Dr. Standifer's focus lies in uncovering innovative approaches to modulate these peptides, aiming to alleviate trauma-induced symptoms and foster rehabilitation for brain injuries. Despite initial funding challenges, her unwavering dedication has led to significant strides in comprehending the impact of neuropeptides on traumatic stress, brain injuries, and pain management, securing over $7.5 million in grants.

This episode also explores her formative postdoctoral training at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in NYC under the esteemed guidance of Dr. Gavril Pasternak. Furthermore, the discussion delves into her involvement in WiSDMH, a pivotal group dedicated to empowering female faculty members at the university by addressing academic disparities through mentorship, CV reviews, and tailored developmental events. Encouraging women to embrace this supportive network, the conversation navigates through various challenges faced in academia, including handling grant rejections, managing the delicate balance between professional commitments and family life, exploring the integration of AI in education, and advocating for the amplification of diverse voices within academic circles.

Stay stubborn and curious and have a happy holiday!

In this episode, Dr. Noeen Sarfraz, a psychiatrist and public health professional, leads us through a captivating journey, embracing her cultural roots from Lahore, Pakistan. From her beginnings at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center to clinical practice across Springfield, IL, and Tulsa, OK, Dr. Noeen shares invaluable insights into her current role at the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, focusing on mental health at The Tulsa Center for Behavioral Health.

Throughout our conversation, she elegantly intertwines her cultural heritage with her public health and psychiatry expertise. Delving into the intricacies of new roles and cultural nuances, Dr. Noeen navigates the complexities of Serious Mental Illness (SMI) with a compassionate understanding shaped by her background. Her perspective offers nuanced insights into addressing mental health stigmas while balancing cultural considerations.

Seamlessly blending personal anecdotes, including endearing tales of hedgehogs as pets, she explores self-care, therapy, and the impact of chronic stress on mental well-being, drawing from her unique cultural upbringing.

Join us for a conversation that beautifully weaves personal stories, professional insights, and reflections on mental health, cultural harmony, and the convergence of psychiatry and public health, all rooted in Dr. Noeen's cultural experiences from Lahore, Pakistan.

If you'd like to feature on the podcast, send us an email on [email protected] 

This episode features our very own, Dr. Tim VanWagoner, the Associate Director of the Oklahoma Clinical and Translational Science Institute (OCTSI). Originating from the scenic landscapes of Montana, Dr. VanWagoner paints a vivid picture of his upbringing and how it laid the foundation for his remarkable career in research. His narrative showcases the profound impact of environment and passion in shaping a scientific career, highlighting his transition from modest beginnings to becoming a prominent scientist.

However, our exploration doesn't stop there. This episode delves into a multitude of captivating topics, from his research on Haemophilus influenzae to the intricacies of establishing robust research infrastructure. We gain insights into the National Institutes of Health IDEA program and its transformative influence, as well as the unique opportunities that emerged during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing the resilience of the scientific community.

We navigate the significance of a clinical coordinator training network and its pivotal role in advancing research. Dr. VanWagoner shares his wisdom on overcoming grant submission hurdles and strategies for career growth in the research field. We also explore the constraints faced in primary care settings and innovative solutions for efficient time management.

As our conversation unfolds, we delve into the profound impact of clinical research on Oklahoma's healthcare landscape. Moreover, we glimpse into the future, where Dr. VanWagoner sheds light on the potential of AI in biomedical research. He emphasizes AI's ability to sift through vast data sets, identifying previously unknown health patterns that could revolutionize healthcare outcomes, particularly in diagnosing and treating rare diseases. With an eye on responsible data handling and privacy protection, Dr. VanWagoner acknowledges the exciting possibilities AI brings while also voicing caution about the risks associated with biased or inaccurate data. This episode offers a compelling exploration of the intersection between AI and biomedical research, and the importance of meticulous data curation in this transformative field.

Join us in this enlightening conversation, which underscores the pivotal role of research in our community, and discover the remarkable journey of Dr. Tim VanWagoner as he continues to push the boundaries of knowledge in the heart of Oklahoma.

In this episode of the GROklahoma Podcast Show, we are honored to feature Dr. Janis Campbell, an esteemed professor of epidemiology renowned for her extensive contributions to research and evaluation. With a remarkable focus on cancer health disparities and collaborative efforts with American Indian tribes, Dr. Campbell's expertise shines brightly. Beyond her research endeavors, she has nurtured the growth of over 75 students, fostering their publication of research findings and presentations at prestigious gatherings. Notably, Dr. Campbell co-directs the tracking and evaluation core within the Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources.

In this inaugural episode, we dive into the world of clinical and translational research in Oklahoma. Hosted by Dr. Motolani Ogunsanya from The Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources (OSCTR), this podcast aims to connect researchers with the abundant resources and opportunities available in the state. Joined by special guests Dr. Janis Campbell and Ms. Nicole Holmes, also from the OSCTR, we explore the significance of research in Oklahoma, success stories, challenges faced by researchers, available resources and support, collaboration platforms, and more.

Thanks for tuning in to the inaugural episode. Remember to subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected for future episodes where we continue to explore the world of clinical and translational research in Oklahoma. Until next time, sign up for our email newsletter at [email protected] to stay up to date.