Research Renaissance: Exploring the Future of Brain Science

• Rewiring the Brain: Non-Invasive Neurotech & the Future of Treatment with Ana Maiques

  In this illuminating episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal sits down with Ana Maiques, CEO and co-founder of Neuroelectrics, a groundbreaking company at the forefront of non-invasive brain stimulation technology. Together, they explore the intersection of neuroscience, entrepreneurship, and innovation, diving deep into how electrical brain stimulation is changing the future of treatment for neurological disorders like epilepsy, depression, and Alzheimer’s.Ana shares her unconventional journey into entrepreneurship, her commitment to ethical tech, and the long road to FDA approval. She also discusses the development of Neuroelectrics’ personalized brain therapies and the potential for at-home use of medical-grade neurostimulation devices.📌 Resources & Mentions:NeuroelectricsKaren Toffler Charitable TrustThe Termeer FoundationAI and Neuroethics Summit with President MacronBrain Digital Twin / Neurotwin platform📫 Stay ConnectedConnect with Ana Maiques: 📧 [email protected] 🔗 LinkedIn – NeuroelectricsFollow Research Renaissance: 🌐 tofflertrust.org 🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform 📞 Contact us with ideas or questions!To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

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• How Philanthropy is Accelerating Alzheimer’s Breakthroughs with Meg Smith

  In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal is joined by Meg Smith, the Chief Executive Officer of Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. They dive deep into the innovative and high-impact research Cure Alzheimer’s Fund is supporting to prevent, slow, and ultimately cure Alzheimer’s disease. Meg shares her fascinating career journey from law and consulting to leading an organization that is revolutionizing brain disease research.Together, they discuss: ✅ The unique funding model of Cure Alzheimer’s Fund and why it accelerates research breakthroughs ✅ The biggest challenges in Alzheimer’s research and how philanthropic funding is filling critical gaps ✅ Exciting cutting-edge research on gut microbiome, the immune system, and the role of sleep in brain health ✅ The importance of high-risk, high-reward funding in pushing scientific discovery forward ✅ How the organization supports researchers and ensures their focus remains in the lab, not on fundraisingResources & Links:🔗 Learn more about Cure Alzheimer’s Fund: www.curealz.org 📧 Contact Meg Smith: [email protected] 🔬 Researchers: Submit inquiries to [email protected] 🌍 Stay connected with the Karen Toffler Charitable Trust: www.tofflertrust.org🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Subscribe to Research Renaissance for more inspiring conversations on the future of neuroscience and research innovation.🔔 Don’t forget to rate and review! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your network and help us spread the word about advancing brain science.To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

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• Oxygen and Alzheimer’s: Dr. Nancy Ruiz on the Vascular Connection

  Can oxygen levels in the brain help explain Alzheimer’s disease? In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal sits down with Dr. Nancy E. Ruiz, a Harvard Medical School research fellow and 2023 Toffler Scholar, to explore a powerful yet underexamined piece of the Alzheimer’s puzzle: vascular dysfunction.Dr. Ruiz shares how her background in physics and biology led her to cutting-edge brain research using advanced imaging tools like two-photon phosphorescence lifetime imaging. Together, they dive into how oxygenation, blood flow, and lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet may hold the key to prevention — and why we must look beyond amyloid and tau to fully understand the disease.Plus, hear Dr. Ruiz’s insights on the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, working with human brain tissue, and how she balances scientific rigor with pottery, running, and a good meal.📌 Don’t forget to follow and rate the show! New episodes explore the people, breakthroughs, and bold ideas shaping the future of brain science.To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

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• Innovation in Biotech & Leadership with Catharine Smith

  In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal sits down with Catharine Smith, Executive Director of the Termeer Foundation, to explore innovation in the biotech industry and the evolving role of leadership. They dive into how biotech leaders are shaping the future of healthcare, supporting emerging companies, and addressing rare diseases.Key Topics CoveredCatharine Smith’s Career Journey – From health services research to leading an influential foundation supporting biotech leaders.Biotech Leadership & Change Agents – What makes a great leader in the biotech space and how leadership is evolving.Henri Termeer’s Legacy – How the Termeer Foundation was founded and its impact on patient-centered biotech innovation.Supporting Biotech CEOs – Challenges, common needs, and how the foundation mentors and funds early-stage biotech leaders.Rare Disease & Patient Advocacy – The role of patient-driven biotech innovation and the partnerships making breakthroughs possible.Future of Biotech & Leadership – How AI, innovation, and a stronger emphasis on leadership will shape the next generation of biotech advancements.Memorable Quotes🗣️ "The most effective biotech leaders are driven by an internal ‘why’—a passion for improving patient care and making an impact." – Catharine Smith🗣️ "If we look at rare diseases as a collective, they’re not rare at all. The unmet need is massive, and we’re seeing patient advocates leading the way in finding solutions." – Catharine SmithResources & MentionsTermeer Foundation: termeerfoundation.orgBook Recommendation: Conscience and Courage – The story of Henri Termeer’s life and legacy.Rare Disease Advocacy: Learn more about patient-led biotech innovations and advocacy groups.Connect With Us📌 Follow Research Renaissance: Website | LinkedIn 📌 Follow Catharine Smith & The Termeer Foundation: LinkedIn💡 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues interested in biotech innovation and leadership!🔍 Want to learn more or collaborate? Contact Karen Toffler Charitable Trust via our website or LinkedIn🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms.Until next time—onward and upward! 🚀To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

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• Exploring the Future of Science Policy with Dr. Carrie Wolinetz

  In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal welcomes Dr. Carrie Wolinetz, a leading science and health policy expert. With an extensive background, including roles at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Dr. Wolinetz shares her insights on the evolving landscape of medical research funding, the role of science policy, and the critical intersection between government, private sector, and research institutions.From the historical foundations of federally funded science to the challenges posed by shifting political landscapes, Dr. Wolinetz offers a compelling perspective on the future of research and public health.What You’ll Learn in This Episode🔬 The Role of Science Policy: How policy shapes the research ecosystem and why it’s essential for medical advancements.🧬 The Impact of Federally Funded Research: The return on investment from initiatives like the Human Genome Project and how they’ve revolutionized medicine.🌎 The Changing Landscape of Research Funding: How federal funding priorities are shifting and what researchers need to prepare for.💰 The Future of Public-Private Partnerships: How government, academia, and the private sector must collaborate to accelerate breakthroughs.⚖️ The Debate on Indirect Costs (F&A Rates): Understanding the recent policy changes and their impact on research institutions.📢 The Importance of Science Communication: Why researchers must engage in public discussions to build trust and transparency.🧑‍🔬 Advice for Early-Career Researchers: How young scientists can navigate funding uncertainties and thrive in a rapidly evolving research environment.💡 The Next Frontier in Public Health: What’s needed to create a robust and proactive health infrastructure for future global challenges.Key Quotes from Dr. Carrie Wolinetz💭 “Science is all about solving problems. The best research happens when patients, researchers, and policymakers work together.”💭 “The Human Genome Project had a 141-to-1 return on investment—nearly a trillion dollars in impact.”💭 “Science isn’t just about discovery; it’s about making sure discoveries lead to real-world impact.”💭 “We need a new national vision for public health—one that integrates the lessons of COVID-19 and prioritizes rapid response to emerging threats.”Resources & Links📌 Karen Toffler Charitable Trust: tofflertrust.org📌 Dr. Carrie Wolinetz on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile📌 NIH Office of Science Policy: NIH Science Policy📌 The 100-Day Mission for Pandemic Preparedness: Learn MoreStay Connected📢 Subscribe for More Episodes! Stay informed on groundbreaking research and policy discussions shaping the future of science.🌐 Visit tofflertrust.org for updates and initiatives.📩 Have thoughts or questions? Reach out to us—we’d love to hear from you!🎧 Listen & Subscribe on Your Favorite Platform📌 Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | Amazon Music🚀 Until next time—onward and upward!To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org. Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.

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