ask theory, stem mentorship, gradmap philippines, juan salvador dantis

Hosted by EIC Mikael Angelo Francisco, Ask Theory shines the spotlight on Pinoy scientific brilliance, in a fun and entertaining “kwentuhan” format. Each episode of Ask Theory  features a Pinoy scientist from one of the various scientific disciplines. In a very casual conversation, guests explain what they do in simple terms, as well as share their fascinating stories: how they got into science, the challenges they face, what motivates them to pursue their fields, what future scientists from the Philippines can look forward to, and so much more.

Episode 129: Bakit Importante Ang Mentors Sa Buhay Ng STEM Students?

Juan Salvador “Duno” Dantis is a chemical biologist taking his PhD studies at UC Irvine, and is the Co-Director of Events and Communications at GradMAP Philippines. His research under the Darci Trader lab involves elucidating the mechanisms by which proteasome activity modulates neurodegeneration and how this can be leveraged as a novel therapeutic avenue for protein aggregation diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

We talked about pursuing the STEM track in graduate school, the GradMAP Philippines initiative, the importance of having STEM mentors, how to become a mentor for STEM students, and more.

How to contact Duno:

  • Email: jdantis@uci.edu
  • GradMAP Facebook: fb.com/GradMAPph
  • GradMAP Twitter: @gradmap_ph
  • GradMAP Instagram: @gradmap_ph
  • GradMAP Email: gradmapteam@gmail.com

This episode of Ask Theory was made in partnership with GradMAP Philippines, a mentor network helping Filipino scientists get through graduate school applications. GradMAP Philippines envisions a thriving community of Filipino scientists that work to reduce barriers for Filipinos in pursuing advanced degrees in STEM and related fields. For more information, visit: https://www.gradmap.ph/

Listen to Ask Theory Episode 129 here:


(Full transcript to follow; watch this page for updates)


The Ask Theory Podcast is available via these platforms — make sure to subscribe, as we’ll be releasing a new episode every week:

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Music: Hopeful Cinematic Ambient by bdProductions; My Mysterious Planet by Free Music

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