Small Proteins: Big Hope | Felipe Quiroz
What if the key to curing disease like Alzheimer’s lies in the tiny, invisible molecules inside our cells?
In this episode of Holy Shift!: Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow, host Angela Gill Nelms sits down with Dr. Felipe Quiroz, Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University. Dr. Quiroz reveals how his lab engineers the invisible — proteins, cells, and genes — to understand and treat diseases like Alzheimer’s. From discovering how disordered proteins shape brain health to inspiring the next generation of scientists, Dr. Quiroz shares how foundational research today builds the breakthroughs of tomorrow that can transform healthcare for generations to come.
Tune in for a conversation that connects molecular science, mentorship, and hope for the future of medicine.
Creators and Guests
Producer
Erin Buckley, Ph.D.
Dr. Erin Buckley is a biomedical researcher specializing in non-invasive optical imaging of the brain. She earned her PhD in Physics and Astronomy from the University of Pennsylvania and completed postdoctoral fellowships at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Massachusetts General Hospital. Her work focuses on developing and applying diffuse correlation spectroscopy and near-infrared spectroscopy to measure cerebral blood flow, oxygenation, and metabolism—particularly in pediatric populations.
Editor
Jackie Hampton
I am a senior at Emory University interested in the way cities work (especially my favorite city and hometown, Atlanta). My major in Interdisciplinary Studies offers me the opportunity to think about urban challenges and solutions from multiple perspectives, taking courses in Environmental Science, Anthropology, and Political Science. I am also completing an Architectural Studies minor, which includes both art history and studio courses.
Designer
Katie Hart
Hi, I’m Katie! As Senior Client Relations Manager and Executive Podcast Producer at The AGN Group, I’m the go-to person who brings each podcast episode to life—from concept to launch—and the driving force behind branding, social media, and strategic partnerships.
Designer
Mahima Patel
I’m a biomedical engineer and project manager passionate about turning complex ideas into real-world healthcare solutions. With experience spanning R&D, medical device development, and regulatory strategy, I’ve led projects from concept through launch at Medline Industries, Georgia Tech, and now The AGN Group. My work bridges technical precision with strategic storytelling—whether advancing medical device innovation, managing risk and timelines, or shaping content and audience engagement. I thrive at the intersection of engineering and creativity, driving impact in healthcare innovation and always looking to connect with those building what’s next.
Producer
Zachary Danziger
Zachary Danziger is a researcher blending neuroscience, AI, and mathematical biology to understand how the nervous system enables fluid, natural movement. His work spans human-subjects studies, animal experiments, and algorithm development focused on neural control of motion, brain-computer interfaces, neurourology, and neural modulation of peripheral reflexes. Driven by new theories and insights, he aims to translate fundamental science into advances in physical therapy, human-machine collaboration, and neural health.