Lecture 3 -Guest Lecture Covid EDI Fall 2024

Introduction

• Presentation Title: PEER-REVIEW, OPEN SOURCE AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COVID-19 VACCINES

• Presenter: Dr. Juan Carlos López

• Institution: Acadia University

• Location: Traditional and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq Nation

Objectives of the Lecture

• Understand peer-review process steps for scientific papers.

• Familiarize with elements of Open Source and Open Science in the context of COVID-19.

• Know the scientists involved in mRNA COVID-19 vaccine development.

• Connect equity, diversity, and inclusion with scientific advancement.

Scientific Method

• Observations:

  • Basis of scientific studies.

  • Generate questions about phenomena.

• Hypothesis:

  • Proposed explanation in a cause-effect format.

  • Testable predictions must arise from the hypothesis.

• Hypothesis Testing:

  • Predictions tested through observations/experiments.

  • Data collected must support/reject the hypothesis.

Types of Scientific Literature

Peer-reviewed Journals

• Publish empirical research, ensuring credibility through peer review.

  • Examples include OIKOS, Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology.

Books and Proceedings

• Collections of scientific research and conference findings.

  • Relevant studies published include specific environmental research.

Other Literature

• Textbooks, encyclopedias, general interest and popular periodicals provide accessible knowledge.

Peer-review Process

• Involves:

  • Researcher: Submits paper for review.

  • Journal Editor: Evaluates submission for quality/fit.

  • Reviewers: Experts who assess the content and provide feedback.

  • End Result: Publication or revision based on feedback.

Case Studies in Scientific Research

Example: Corophium volutator Study

• Focused on population structure in the Bay of Fundy.

• Examined demography factors of different life stages in an intertidal mudflat.

Example: Foraging Behavior of Green Crab

• Investigated interactions between green crabs and dogwhelks.

• Revealed impact of body size on foraging and kleptoparasitism.

Collaboration and Open Access in COVID-19 Research

• Global Response:

  • Free sharing of data and research accelerated findings.

• Open Access Initiatives:

  • Encouraged by institutions like Acadia University and NSERC.

• Key Researchers:

  • Dr. Edward Holmes:

    • Sequenced SARS-CoV-2 genome, essential for testing/vaccine development.

  • Dr. Katalin Karikó and Dr. Andrew Weissman:

    • Pioneered the mRNA technology used in vaccines.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

• Notable scientists:

  • Dr. Katalin Karikó: Pivotal in mRNA vaccine development despite obstacles.

  • Dr. Uğur Şahin and Dr. Özlem Türeci: Founders of BioNTech, overcoming challenges of migration.

  • Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett: Actively involved in building trust in the African American community regarding vaccines.

Conclusion

• Reflect on the roles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in scientific progress

• Acknowledge how individual perseverance among scientists influenced COVID-19 vaccine development.