On Wednesday, February 24th, students were treated to a morning of dialogue with two experts on genetic diseases, hearing from both the clinical and theoretical sides of the field. 

Renee Cecil, RN/MSN, has worked for decades with patients suffering from sickle cell disease, a genetic disorder that predominantly impacts people of color. She spoke not only of her professional background treating patients with sickle cell, but also of her personal investment in their lives, taking pride in helping them live as free as possible from the pain caused by the disease. 

Dr. William Lamberti, more affectionately known as Billy, recently earned his doctorate in Computational Sciences and Informatics from George Mason University. He explained in helpful detail the various applications for computer science in the field of genetic research, emphasizing also the role that visual artists and others from various disciplines play in ongoing innovations. Moreover, Dr. Lamberti’s message spoke to many, including Mrs. Reiter, who noted that “the pursuit of a dream can take many paths”; one need not major in the sciences to participate in scientific research. True research and genuine learning utilize the skills of many different disciplines, a message shared by all those involved in the FIRE program. 

The value of Ms. Cecil and Dr. Lamberti’s expertise was not lost on students, several of whom asked insightful questions relating to their own research into genetic diseases for their ongoing FIRE projects. Questions arose about the particular dietary needs of patients with sickle cell as well as the evolutionary adaptation linked to protection from the parasite that causes malaria; likewise, students asked about how the ongoing Covid-19 epidemic impacts patients with sickle cell as well as comparable diseases that affect the lungs, such as cystic fibrosis. 

Moving into March, students will complete their initial research into particular genetic diseases and finalize annotated bibliographies independently before joining with classmates to create podcasts highlighting the larger social and ethical questions raised by such inquiry. We’re looking forward to seeing (and hearing) some wonderful projects to be shared after spring break.