| Host |
Sam Kessel and Anastasia Janas
|
| Listen | Apple Podcasts Spotify |
| Watch | YouTube |
Summary
In this episode of the Nucleate Podcast, Peter Campbell traces his scientific journey from a medical student in New Zealand to a pioneering genomics researcher and startup founder. Initially struggling with traditional medical training, Campbell discovered his passion for computational biology while working at the Sanger Institute, where he was instrumental in early cancer genome sequencing efforts. His research evolved from exploring cancer mutations to investigating genetic changes in normal tissues, revealing an unexpected and complex landscape of cellular evolution.
This work caught the attention of Flagship Pioneering, leading to the creation of Quotient Therapeutics, a company focused on understanding how somatic mutations drive disease processes and potentially enable personalized medical treatments. Campbell discusses the platform's approach to identifying meaningful mutations, their potential therapeutic applications, and the partnership with Pfizer in cardiovascular and renal disease research. Throughout the conversation, he candidly compares the differences between academic and startup environments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, efficiency, and storytelling. The episode provides a compelling narrative of scientific discovery, entrepreneurship, and the potential of genomics to transform our understanding of human health and disease.
Show Notes
[0:00] Peter begins by discussing his upbringing in a New Zealand university town.
[2:39] He realizes he is not suited for bench work during his PhD and discovers a passion for computational analysis.
[4:30] Campbell joins the Sanger Institute and participates in one of the first cancer genome sequencing projects using new technology.
[8:00] He describes the revolutionary period of cancer genomics from 2008 to 2015, systematically exploring genetic changes in cancers.
[12:32] Campbell shifts research focus to studying mutations in normal tissues across different organ systems.
[13:44] Flagship Pioneering reaches out to discuss the potential clinical relevance of their research.
[14:56] He co-founds Quotient Therapeutics with Flagship Pioneering to explore therapeutic applications of somatic mutation research.
[20:39] Campbell explains the evolutionary process of mutations in cells, comparing it to natural selection.
[26:49] He discusses the incredible genetic diversity within a single individual's cell populations.
[35:12] The conversation explores the potential for personalized medicine based on genetic mutation analysis.
[39:55] Campbell explains how cells adapt to environmental changes and potentially revert mutations when pressures are removed.
[49:29] He describes Quotient's approach to identifying and potentially targeting specific mutations.
[58:47] Campbell discusses the partnership with Pfizer in cardiovascular and renal disease research.
[1:08:01] He compares the differences between academic and startup research environments.
[1:15:39] Campbell offers final advice for entrepreneurs transitioning from academia to startups.