Difference between revisions of "Team:Northwestern/Interviews"

Dr. Mendalson’s research revolves around Infectious diseases in countries with high rates of antibiotic resistance (AR). He focuses on models of antibiotic stewardship, antibiotic prescription and response, hospital collaborations and the use of antibiotics in surgical pathways. Most his work centers around international policy development for infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance strategy.

Dr.Mendelson highlights how there are many players in the antibiotic game, not just scientists or doctors. Finance, food production and the general public are often in tandem with the science behind antibiotic resistance (AR). He stressed the importance of education and awareness as well as individual and national responsibility to use antibiotics in a poised manner. Using language that is clear such as "antibiotic resistance" vs "antimicrobial resistance" is also essential to the fight. Dr. Mendelson thinks that carefully planned use of antibiotics will be a lasting solution in addition to new therapies being created to fight bacteria.

Additionally, we asked for suggestions and things to consider when molding our project. Dr. Mendalson proposed that we carry out risk analysis to evaluate the chances of our therapeutic working and weighing the risks and benefits of this delivery system. He also advised us to be specific about what genes we are trying to target while remaining cautious. “Antibiotic Resistance isn’t just because of genes. Superbugs have multiple resistance mechanisms, disabling the genes doesn’t mean it’ll surefire die.”

Takeaway: Our conversation with Dr. Mendalson helped us be more considerate with the language we use when referring to antimicrobial resistance. When talking about antibiotics, this website only uses the terms "antibiotic resistant" or "drug resistant infection"; according to Dr. Mendelson, most of the population can understand these terms, a first step to combating AR worldwide. Dr. Mendalson also convinced us to carry out risk analysis for our protein delivery approach. .

Scott Mahloch is a former member of the Navy and current FBI agent. After entering the FBI in 2008 and completing training, Mahloch was assigned to Milwaukee Division’s Kenosha Resident Agency, where he worked on a variety of cases. He is currently the Weapons of Mass Destruction Coordinator for the Chicago Division.

Although the topic of antibiotic resistance was not central in our discussion, Special Agent Mahlock, by referring to a number of examples from his career, emphasized the importance of being vigilant and aware of one's surroundings while working in a lab setting. SA Mahlock made it clear that the FBI is not a regulatory agency but does take measures to ensure that everything is working smoothly and safely.

Takeaway: SA Mahlocks presentation was informative and made us more aware of the dangers of biology and how it can potentially be used for nefarious acts. Unfortunately, there isn't much we can change about our project from Special Agent Mahloch's pretension. However, if we see something we will definitely say something!