Shows
Research Forward PodcastHonoring a Pioneer: The Life and Legacy of Pete WillanIn this special and heartfelt episode of Research Forward, we honor the life and legacy of Pete Willan, a remarkable leader whose five decades of service transformed biomedical research facilities and advanced the standards of animal welfare across the UK. Host David Mayo and guest Alison Hopkins reflect on Pete’s extraordinary career—from his strategic leadership at the University of Leicester’s Division of Biomedical Services to his unwavering commitment to humane care, ethical practice, and the technicians who uphold them.
We explore Pete’s groundbreaking 2001 study examining emotional conflict among animal care technicians, his leadership in advanc...
2026-01-2618 minResearch Forward PodcastBreaking Barriers in Clinical Research: How Prelude Is Redefining Data ManagementIn this episode of Research Forward, we sit down with Tommy Jackson, CEO of Prelude, to explore how technology is transforming clinical research. Tommy shares his journey from finance and Silicon Valley startups to leading one of the most trusted eClinical platforms in animal health—and now expanding into human health trials. We discuss:
How Prelude’s Electronic Data Capture (EDC) system accelerates trial timelines by up to 50% and reduces database build times by 75%.
Lessons human health research can learn from decades of optimization in veterinary trials.
Why user-friendly design and integrated modules like ePRO and eConsent are crit...
2025-12-1154 minResearch Forward PodcastSmart Cages, Smarter Science: Olden Labs’ Disruptive ApproachIn this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo welcomes Dr. Michael Florea, co-founder and CEO of Olden Labs, a Harvard-trained synthetic biologist revolutionizing longevity research. Michael shares his journey from teenage lab work in Estonia to developing whole-body gene delivery systems at Harvard Medical School, and ultimately founding Olden Labs to tackle the bottlenecks of animal studies.
Discover how Olden Labs is building the world’s first automated animal research lab using AI-powered smart cages and robotics to transform data collection, reduce costs, and improve animal welfare. From non-invasive health monitoring to accelerating disease mo...
2025-11-1753 minResearch Forward PodcastZebrafish and the Future of Drug DiscoveryIn this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David sits down with Arantza Muriana, Chief Investigational Officer and CEO of Biobide’s American affiliate. Arantza shares her inspiring journey from clinical trials in Spain to pioneering preclinical research using zebrafish and other aquatic models. Together, they explore how Biobide is transforming drug discovery, toxicology, and environmental safety testing through innovative, ethical, and high-throughput methods.
Learn how zebrafish are helping reduce animal testing, accelerate rare disease research, and improve regulatory science. From AI-driven image analysis to personalized medicine and environmental impact assessments, this conversation dives deep into the...
2025-10-151h 14Research Forward PodcastBeyond Willpower: The Genetic Roots of Obesity in Dogs and HumansIn this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo sits down with Dr. Eleanor Raffan, veterinary surgeon and geneticist at the University of Cambridge, to explore the surprising genetic links between obesity in dogs and humans. Through her groundbreaking work with pet Labradors and other breeds, Dr. Raffan reveals how genes like POMC and D1B influence appetite, metabolism, and weight gain—offering insights that challenge the conventional wisdom that obesity is simply a matter of willpower. Her research not only highlights the biological complexity of obesity but also underscores the shared health challenges between humans and the...
2025-09-2553 minResearch Forward PodcastAAALAC International: Converging Excellence in Animal Welfare and ScienceIn this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo welcomes Javier Guillén, Senior Director at AAALAC International, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of laboratory animal science and global accreditation. Javier shares his personal journey from a veterinary graduate in Spain to a global leader in animal welfare and research ethics. He reflects on the early challenges of entering the field without formal training, the importance of ethical oversight, and how international collaboration has shaped the standards we see today.
Gain insight into the mission and impact of AAALAC International, the value o...
2025-09-031h 39Research Forward PodcastAdvances in Perioperative Care: Enhancing Animal Welfare and ScienceIn this episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo sits down with Professor Paul Flecknell, a global authority on laboratory animal welfare, anesthesia, and pain management. With over four decades of experience, Professor Flecknell shares his journey from aspiring large-animal vet to pioneering researcher and educator in lab animal care. He discusses the critical importance of refining anesthesia and analgesia practices—not just for ethical reasons, but to improve the quality and reliability of scientific data.
Whether you're a researcher, veterinarian, or simply curious about the ethics behind scientific discovery, you'll find valuable insights into how...
2025-08-261h 12Research Forward PodcastThe Future of Lab Animal Science: From 3Rs to AI InnovationsIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Professor Jan-Bas Prins, a prominent figure in lab animal science and an advocate for transitioning away from animal testing. Professor Prins shares his journey from zoology to becoming a leading voice in lab animal science, discussing his roles at the Leiden University Medical Center and the Francis Crick Institute.
They delve into the European directive on animal research, the principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement), and the challenges of implementing these principles in scientific research. Professor Prins emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative...
2025-08-211h 06Research Forward PodcastBeyond the Protocols: Flexibility, Leadership, and Lessons from the FrontlinesIn this powerful episode of the Research Forward Podcast, host David Mayo sits down with Dr. Dvir Mintz, Director of the Preclinical Research Authority at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, to explore what it means to lead a critical animal research facility during a time of war. While on vacation abroad, Dr. Mintz was thrust into crisis management as conflict erupted back home, forcing him to coordinate operations remotely under extreme conditions.
Through candid storytelling, Dr. Mintz shares how his team’s preparedness, adaptability, and deep sense of community enabled them to maintain animal welfare and resea...
2025-07-251h 15Research Forward PodcastElectrophysiology to Neurofeedback: New Frontiers in Treating Neurological DisordersIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Dr. Lily Iskhakova, a leading neuroscientist from the Weizmann Institute. They delve into the intricate world of neuronal networks, exploring the mysteries of learning, memory, and neurological disorders. Dr. Iskhakova shares her innovative work on the rehabilitation of animals used in Parkinson's disease models, highlighting her research on the electrophysiological fingerprints of aberrant neuronal activity in primate models.
The conversation covers the development of surgical methods to address medication-resistant neurological and psychiatric disorders through deep brain stimulation and neurofeedback algorithms. Dr. Iskhakova explains the potential...
2025-06-131h 24Research Forward PodcastInnovative Education in Biomedical Research: The Interdisciplinary Approach of MorphoPHENIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Professor Livia D'Angelo, the driving force behind the MorphoPHEN program. MorphoPHEN is a collaborative master's program involving four leading European universities, aimed at training experts in mouse phenotyping to advance our understanding of human diseases. Professor D'Angelo discusses the interdisciplinary nature of the program, which integrates anatomy, pathology, imaging, and deep learning to provide a comprehensive education in mouse model research.
The conversation delves into the origins of MorphoPHEN, highlighting the need for standardized training in mouse phenotyping due to the increasing complexity of genetic mo...
2025-05-301h 25Research Forward PodcastEnhancing Animal Welfare: Challenges and Triumphs Across Four European CountriesIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Dr. Viola Galligioni, a veterinarian with extensive experience in laboratory animal science across four European countries. Dr. Galligioni shares her journey from aspiring equine surgeon to managing animal facilities in Italy, the Czech Republic, Ireland, and the Netherlands. They discuss the unique challenges of leading teams in diverse cultural contexts and the importance of adaptability and patience in her role.
The conversation delves into the complexities of managing different animal species, including mice, pigs, and zebrafish, and the logistical hurdles of ensuring consistent care and...
2025-05-281h 25Research Forward PodcastVirtual Reality in Medicine: Enhancing Patient Experience and Improving OutcomesIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Mireia Cigarrán, CEO and founder of VRPharma, an innovative company using virtual reality to transform patient experiences, particularly for children and adults undergoing medical procedures. Mireia shares her journey from industrial and chemical engineering to founding VRPharma, driven by her personal experiences as a mother witnessing her child's distress during medical treatments.
The conversation explores the remarkable impact of VRPharma's platform, which boasts a 99.4% patient recommendation rate. Mireia discusses the challenges of integrating virtual reality (VR) technology into healthcare, including financial constraints, regulatory barriers, a...
2025-04-111h 08Research Forward PodcastThe Future of Medical Imaging: From Radiotracers to AI-Enhanced PET ScansIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Professor Adriana Tavares, a leading expert in translational molecular imaging and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Professor Tavares shares her extensive background in nuclear medicine, biomedical engineering, and radiotracer development, highlighting her journey from her academic beginnings to her current role at the University of Edinburgh.
The conversation delves into the intricacies of PET imaging, discussing its advantages over other imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans. Professor Tavares explains how PET imaging can detect diseases at very early stages by examining the function of...
2025-04-0258 minResearch Forward PodcastLittle Pigs, Big Impact: Revolutionizing Research with Miniature ModelsIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Adrian Zeltner, a leading expert in mini pig care, handling, anesthesia, and surgery, with extensive experience in the pharmaceutical and biomedical research industries. Adrian shares his unique career journey, from his beginnings in Switzerland to his time in New Zealand and eventual move to Denmark, where he became deeply involved in mini pig research.
The conversation delves into the various applications of mini pigs in biomedical research, highlighting their anatomical and physiological similarities to humans, which make them valuable models for studying cardiovascular diseases, diabetes...
2025-03-061h 19Research Forward PodcastAdvancing Animal Welfare: The Role of 3D Printing in Modern Surgical EducationIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Dr. Diego Celdran-Bonafonte, an expert in surgical training and biomedical research, currently an associate veterinary specialist and research assistant professor at the University of Arizona. They explore Dr. Celdran-Bonafonte's innovative work in 3D printing surgical simulators, which provide an ethical and effective alternative for training students without relying on live animals or cadavers.
Dr. Celdran-Bonafonte shares his career journey, from his early days in exotic animal practice in Spain to his current role in the U.S., highlighting his significant projects, including the development of...
2025-02-101h 19Research Forward PodcastThe Science of Liver Health: From Fibrosis to Cell Line AuthenticationIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Professor Ralf Weiskirchen, a leading expert in liver diseases and head of the Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry at RWTH University Hospital Aachen. They delve into the complexities of liver fibrosis, discussing its various causes, including alcohol, viral hepatitis, and genetic diseases. Professor Weiskirchen explains the biochemical processes behind liver fibrosis and the potential for reversing the condition through lifestyle changes and medical interventions.
The conversation also covers the importance of biomarkers for early diagnosis and risk stratification, as well as the promising advancements in gene...
2025-01-311h 01Research Forward PodcastMental Health in Animal Care: From Compassion Fatigue to Self-Care StrategiesIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Alison Hopkins, a qualified registered animal technologist, to discuss the often overlooked but crucial topic of mental health in animal care professionals. Alison shares her journey from working in accounting to becoming an animal technologist, highlighting the emotional demands and challenges of the profession, including compassion fatigue.
They delve into the lack of support and awareness surrounding mental health in the industry and the profound impact that caring for research animals can have on individuals. Alison offers insights into her personal experiences, the importance of...
2025-01-231h 08Research Forward PodcastUnlocking the Secrets of Zebrafish: Recent Innovations to Future BreakthroughsIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Dr. Ana Cristina Borges, Head of the Aquatic Platform at the Gulbenkian Institute of Molecular Medicine. Ana is a leading figure in zebrafish research, overseeing crucial initiatives related to zebrafish husbandry and its application in biomedical studies. With a PhD in molecular biology, Ana has become a pioneer in zebrafish facility management and is actively involved with the Zebrafish Husbandry Association.
They delve into the fascinating world of zebrafish, discussing their unique characteristics, such as high fertility, transparency during early development, and resilience to environmental...
2025-01-151h 20Research Forward PodcastInnovating Vaccines: Groundbreaking Work with Ovum SPFIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, we interview Sergio Salazar, a veterinarian, biomedical consultant and the co-founder of Ovum SPF, a startup revolutionizing vaccine production using specified pathogen-free (SPF) eggs. The discussion delves into Sergio's background, his journey from veterinary medicine to biomedical consulting, and his experiences working in various countries.
The conversation highlights the critical role of SPF eggs in vaccine development, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sergio explains how Ovum SPF's new facility in Cascante, Navarra, Spain, is designed with advanced biosecurity measures to ensure the highest quality and cleanliness of...
2025-01-071h 01Research Forward PodcastThe Importance of Openness in Fostering Transparency in ScienceIn this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Bella Lear, the Chief Executive of Understanding Animal Research Oceania. Bella discusses her extensive career in science communication, which began in her teenage years with the British Science Association. She shares how her passion for science and communication led her to work on various projects, including the Concordat on Openness on Animal Research in the UK. This initiative aimed to enhance transparency and public engagement in animal research, making the public active participants in the conversation about the ethical use of animals in scientific studies.
...
2024-12-181h 02Research Forward PodcastUncovering Human Evolution: Climate, Diet, and Neanderthal ResilienceIn this episode, Dr. Ana B. Marín-Arroyo, a researcher in human evolution, delves into her work on the resilience of past human groups, focusing on their subsistence strategies and climatic conditions in Eurasia from 200,000 to 3,000 years ago.
Dr. Marín-Arroyo, a Professor of Prehistory, at the University of Cantabria, has worked at various institutions, including the University of Cambridge. Her research group, EvoAdapta, focuses on human evolution and adaptation through time. Her research examines how climate changes and the arrival of Homo sapiens affected Neanderthals. Her European Research Council-funded project, Subsilience aims to uncover the climatic and envi...
2024-12-051h 01Research Forward PodcastAdvancing Veterinary Pathology and Research with Dr. Jennifer BrazzellIn this episode, Dr. Jennifer Brazzell, the Head of Anatomic Pathology at IDEXX BioAnalytics, shares her extensive experience and insights into the field of veterinary pathology. Jennifer is double board-certified in veterinary clinical and anatomic pathology and has been with IDEXX BioAnalytics since May 2021.
Jennifer explains the roles of clinical and anatomic pathologists in veterinary medicine. Clinical pathologists evaluate laboratory data to diagnose illnesses in animals, while anatomic pathologists analyze whole tissues to determine causes of disease or death, particularly in research settings.
She discusses her career journey, starting with her passion for clinical pathology...
2024-11-021h 24Research Forward PodcastCharting the Course of Veterinary Clinical Trials and Innovations with Dr. Patxi SarasolaIn this episode, Dr. Patxi Sarasola shares his extensive experience in the veterinary pharmaceutical industry. He discusses his educational background, which includes a veterinary degree from Spain and a PhD in equine veterinary pharmacology from Scotland. Initially aiming to become an equine vet, Patxi transitioned into clinical research, working for Pfizer in England.
In 2000, Patxi and his wife Janice founded Ondax Scientific, a clinical research organization (CRO) in San Sebastian, Spain. Ondax specializes in clinical trials for the animal health industry, focusing on the registration of new molecules and vaccines. Patxi explains the role of CROs in...
2024-11-0256 minResearch Forward PodcastIntroducing the Research Forward PodcastThe Research Forward Podcast is dedicated to exploring the world of research and innovation. Hosted by David Mayo, each episode features conversations with individuals making significant contributions in various fields, including colleagues, customers, researchers, and industry leaders associated with IDEXX BioAnalytics.
The podcast aims to highlight our mission to advance research and to improve the health of pets, people, and livestock globally. Guests on the podcast range from PhD students to professors and industry leaders, providing diverse perspectives on science, entrepreneurship, and the real-world applications of their work.
We invite you to join us as we...
2024-11-0201 min
Research Forward PodcastDeep Dive into Health Monitoring with Dr. Robert LivingstonIn this episode, Dr. Robert Livingston shares his journey from being a rural dairy cattle veterinarian to his current role in diagnostics and infectious diseases at IDEXX BioAnalytics. He discusses his career path, which includes working with research monkeys during veterinary school, pursuing a PhD, and his passion for science and diagnostics.
Dr. Livingston explains the importance of animal health monitoring in research, focusing on detecting pathogens that can negatively impact the validity of research data. He highlights the evolution of diagnostic techniques, including the use of PCR testing and environmental health monitoring, which have improved the a...
2024-11-021h 01