In a podcast developed in Science Seminar class with Upper School Science Teacher Mr. Paul Zahller, Shudi Wang ’21 talks about the complexities of developing a vaccine for the coronavirus and what it will take to roll out new vaccines to the general public.
The podcast begins with a discussion about an incredibly ambitious coronavirus test that Wang and Mr. Zahller have been designing. It uses a novel approach to testing, taking samples from saliva and earwax. (Great news for anyone who has experienced the six-inch-long nasal swab test!)
« As part of the preliminary work for that test, Shudi has been studying scientific literature and commentary about coronavirus testing, testing platforms, and vaccine development, » said Zahller.
The episode was made to share information about vaccine development with Upper School students who participated in a survey early in the year on whether they’d like to stay up-to-date on news concerning a coronavirus vaccine. Although there was no goal for a series when creating the podcast, Zahller said that it is possible.
« I’d be happy to turn it into a series. Shudi is so capable and articulate on this subject, » he said.
“The process of creating the podcast really allowed me to take an in-depth look into a scientific process that is occurring as we speak, » said Wang. « I hope that the podcast can help alleviate the anxiety people have around the vaccine and help guide them towards their next steps tackling the pandemic.”
Listen to the podcast below: