PIONEERING ENGINEER TURNS ELECTRICITY INTO MEDICINE | Dr. Rafael Davalos
Some tumors are considered too risky to operate on. Dr. Rafael Davalos set out to change that.
In this episode of Holy Shift! Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow, host Angela Gill Nelms talks with Dr. Rafael Davalos, professor in the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory, about using targeted electrical pulses to tackle some of medicine's toughest challenges.
You will discover how electrical pulses can make previously inoperable tumors treatable by targeting cancer cells while preserving nearby blood vessels and nerves. You'll also hear how researchers realized those same electrical pulses could be used beyond cancer treatment. Today, doctors use them to treat heart rhythm conditions like atrial fibrillation, offering an alternative to procedures that can damage surrounding tissue.
But the biggest surprise might be where the original idea for using electrical pulses came from. Rafael's breakthrough happened after a frustrating experiment led him to question the entire approach. Instead of trying to deliver genes into cells, what if electricity could destroy the cells directly?
From cancer treatment and heart disease to the unexpected paths of scientific discovery, this conversation explores how setbacks, collaboration, and asking a different question can change the future of medicine.
Learn More About Dr. Rafael Davalos:
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About The Host: Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in transforming bold ideas into impactful healthcare solutions. She serves as the Director of Biolocity, accelerating the commercialization of early-stage medical technologies developed at Emory University and Georgia Tech. She is also the Founder and CEO of The AGN Group, and the host of the Badass Leaders Podcast, where she champions courageous, compassionate leadership. Learn more at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.
Meet The HolyShift! Team:
- Produced by: Erin Buckley and Zachary Danziger
- Filming & Editing: Vani Sridar, Katie Hart
- Logistics & Marketing Support: Rajashree Ramamoorthy
Creators and Guests
Host
Angela Gill Nelms
Angela Gill Nelms is an engineer, entrepreneur, and podcast host dedicated to helping individuals build bold brands, transform organizational culture, and lead with courage. On Holy Shift!, Angela serves as the Host, guiding conversations during episodes, interviewing guests, and facilitating engaging discussions on the power of biomedical research to change lives.
Producer
Erin Buckley, Ph.D.
Dr. Erin Buckley is an Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Pediatrics at Georgia Tech and Emory University. Her research is focused on developing optical technologies that can non-invasively monitor oxygen and blood flow in the brain at the bedside. At Holy Shift!, Dr. Buckley serves as a Producer overseeing all aspects of the podcast, from episode development and recording to publication and marketing.
Designer
Katie Hart
Katie Hart is the Senior Client Relations Manager and Executive Podcast Producer at The AGN Group. Katie specializes in bringing podcast episodes to life from concept to launch, while concurrently driving branding, social media, and strategic partnerships. At Holy Shift!, Katie contributes as a Designer, consulting on all aspects of production.
Designer
Rajashree Ramamoorthy
Rajashree Ramamoorthy is a biomedical engineer at Emory University, holding a Master’s degree from the University of Arizona. Rajashree’s research specializes in the intersection of engineering and neuroscience, focusing specifically on human movement and balance research. At Holy Shift!, Rajashree contributes as a Designer, creating marketing materials to drive audience engagement across all platforms.
Designer
Vani Sridhar
Vani Sridhar is a Biomedical Engineering PhD student at Georgia Tech and Emory University. Vani specializes in engineering sophisticated in vitro platforms to study ischemic cardiovascular disease, utilizing expertise in disease modeling, bioprinting, and stem cell technology. At Holy Shift!, Vani serves as a Designer, developing platform-specific strategies, creating engaging digital content, and fostering community growth to amplify each episode's reach.
Producer
Zachary Danziger
Dr. Zachary Danziger is as an Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University whose research blends neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and mathematical biology to understand the nervous system and fluid movement. At Holy Shift! podcast, Dr. Danziger acts as a Producer, overseeing all aspects of the podcast, from episode development and recording to publication and marketing.