Episode 32: BAT Breakthroughs and the Bridge from Bench-to-Bedside
Description
In this episode, Dr. Aaron Cypess discusses two pivotal moments that led him to change his approach to research. Initially planning to major in biology, he was encouraged to study chemistry, which provided a strong foundation in precision and quantitative analysis. During his endocrinology fellowship, Dr. Cypess shifted his focus to clinically relevant research, leading to his entry into the Clinical Investigator Training Program. This program allowed him to leverage his dual MD and PhD training to study human brown adipose tissue (BAT). Dr. Cypess also reflects on the pressures of being a physician-researcher and how the supportive environment at the NIH's NIDDK has enabled him to continue his impactful research. He highlights the benefits of the NIH's collaborative environment and resources, such as the NIH Clinical Center and the post-baccalaureate fellowship program, which have been instrumental in his research on BAT and its implications for human health.