The Catalysts cover art

The Catalysts

The Catalysts

Written by: Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry (Western University)
Listen for free

The Catalysts is a medical science and discovery podcast produced by Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University, Canada. The show blends expert insight with engaging stories, and connects world-class research with the people who benefit most from scientific advancement. Season 2 of the Catalysts picks up where Season 1 left off: expert insight from researchers at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, with a focus on the Science of Cancer. Listen for diverse perspectives on the breakthroughs, challenges, and evolving questions shaping today's cancer science. Produced by: Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, Canada Hosts: Patrick Morley, Prabhjot Sohal Technical Producer: David Creces Producers: Allan Lewis, Megan Morris Voice Over: Julie Simpson The Catalysts is produced by Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry in association with the J. Allyn Taylor International Prize in Medicine — one of Canada's most prestigious medical research prizes.2025 Biological Sciences Science
Episodes
  • The answers hidden in our genes with Dr. Dervla Connaughton

    The answers hidden in our genes with Dr. Dervla Connaughton
    Oct 14 2026
    Solving generational mysteries and lifting misplaced burdens. To Dr. Dervla Connaughton, that's the power of genetic testing. The clinician-scientist has garnered international recognition for her work integrating genomics into kidney care. From uncovering the genetic causes of kidney disease in families who have long searched for answers to helping people make informed decisions about living kidney donation, Dr. Connaughton is using genetics to advance precision care, empower patients and inspire hope. Dr. Dervla Connaughton is an Associate Professor in the Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics and Biochemistry at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, where she holds the Eugen Drewlo Chair in Kidney Research and Innovation. Related links:
    • Kidney Genetics Clinic
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
  • From science fiction to reality: The next frontier of gene editing with David Edgell, PhD

    From science fiction to reality: The next frontier of gene editing with David Edgell, PhD
    Sep 22 2026

    Can a fascination with science fiction fuel life-changing research?

    If you've followed the career of David Edgell, PhD, then you'll know the answer is a resounding yes. From Star Trek to Blade Runner, the biochemistry professor has spent his career recreating the seemingly impossible health solutions that were promised in fictional far distant futures. Edgell is now exploring the next frontier of gene editing as he pushes the science behind CRISPR-Cas9, the Nobel Prize-winning technology that allows scientists to cut DNA at precise locations.

    David Edgell, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.

    Related links:

    • The Edgell Lab
    • New funding advances precision gene-editing technology
    • Gene editing's next frontier
    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
  • Engineering the future of neurosurgery with Dr. Victor Yang

    Engineering the future of neurosurgery with Dr. Victor Yang
    Aug 26 2026

    The future of neurosurgery is bright.

    That's according to neurosurgeon Dr. Victor Yang, who is combining engineering and medicineto improve patients' lives. Fresh off 24 hours of back-to-back surgeries, Dr. Yang joins The Catalysts to discuss the evolution of technology in neurosurgery, share some of his favourite inventions and provide an intimate look at life in a high-stakes career.

    Dr. Victor Yang is a Professor of Neurosurgery, Medical Imaging, Orthopaedic Surgery and Medical Biophysics at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, where he holds the Charles G. Drake Chair in Neurosurgery Research. He was recently elected as a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences.

    Related links:

    This is Not a Robot Takeover – Rapport Magazine: https://www.schulich.uwo.ca/rapport//2025/features/this_is_not_a_robot_takeover.html

    Pioneering research bridges engineering and medicine: https://news.westernu.ca/2022/03/pioneering-research-bridges-engineering-and-medicine/

    Life-saving surgery inspires gift to spinal implant research: https://www.schulich.uwo.ca/about/news-events-community/news/2026/life-saving-surgery-inspires-gift-to-spinal-implant-research.html

    EPISODE CHAPTERS

    0:44 – Intro

    2:07 – Combining engineering and medicine

    6:20 – Unpacking neurosurgery

    9:10 – Technology and neurosurgery

    12:42 – Dr. Yang's inventions

    17:18 – The future of neurosurgery

    20:29 – The high stakes of neurosurgery

    27:10 – Invention inspiration

    29:10 – Dr. Yang's love for London, Ont.
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_t1
No reviews yet