Opening Remarks | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Despite the challenges faced this year, the Annual Scientific Symposium celebrates the strength and resilience of the neuroscience community at Stanford.

Key Insights

• 💦 The COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges for the neuroscience community, but they have shown resilience and determination to continue their scientific work.
• 🧠 The symposium focuses on the neurobiology of disease, covering various topics from brain tumor mechanisms to stroke recovery and gastrointestinal diagnosis.
• ❓ The virtual poster session utilizing Gather software provides an innovative approach to encourage scientific conversation and connection.

Transcript

• Good morning. It is my pleasure to welcome all of you to the Annual Scientific Symposium of the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute here at Stanford. This is an annual celebration for us, a celebration of science. It's an occasion for gratitude for the outstanding speakers who have joined us today. And it's an opportunity to strengthen our community ... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: How has the neuroscience community at Stanford been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the neuroscience community at Stanford. The new neurosciences building had to be shut down shortly after its dedication, and many researchers faced challenges in continuing their work remotely. However, there has been a strong sense of resilience and determination to carry on with science despite the obstacles.

Q: What themes will be discussed during the symposium?

The symposium will focus on the neurobiology of disease. The speakers will cover a range of topics, including molecular analysis of brain tumor mechanisms, neuro-engineering approaches to stroke recovery, and gastrointestinal diagnosis. The discussions will provide insights into the latest research and advancements in these areas.

Q: How will the virtual poster session be conducted?

The virtual poster session will utilize a small group meeting software tool called Gather. This software allows for a more realistic scientific encounter by enabling attendees to move around, converse in small groups, and engage in conversations similar to a traditional poster session. It is an opportunity for students and post-docs to showcase their work and engage with other attendees.

Q: What is the significance of acknowledging the ancestral lands of the Muwekma Ohlone tribe?

Acknowledging the ancestral lands of the Muwekma Ohlone tribe is a public recognition of the historical and ongoing importance of these lands to the Ohlone people. It aligns with Stanford's values of community and diversity and brings visibility to the university's relationship with native peoples.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The past year has been filled with unexpected challenges, from the COVID-19 crisis to the call for racial justice.

• Despite the difficulties, the neuroscience community at Stanford has shown fortitude, determination, and care for each other.

• The symposium focuses on the neurobiology of disease, featuring six speakers and a virtual poster session.