Assignment:
You have learned about how the food you eat influences your metabolism and digestive processes. When considering these digestive processes, we tend to think about the organs of the gut, including the colon; however, it turns out there are other cells that are just as important to our digestive health - bacterial cells. This leads us to our next scientist in the "Get to Know a Scientist" series.
Dr. Lawrence David is a biologist currently working as a professor at Duke University. His work examines the intersections of diet, the digestive system, and gut bacteria. More specifically, his lab focuses on how the microbes in our guts behave over time and in response to dietary changes. In addition to work in his lab, he also helped start a website to showcase illustrated, science-related poetry.
If you haven't already, watch the following short video that highlights the inspiration behind Dr. David's research.
Video Credit: Why Do You Study That? Poop. by Duke University | Duration: 1 minute 57 seconds
Nest, listen to Dr. Lawrence David's story of an extreme self-study (14:15). Alternatively, you can read the transcript of this story.
Lastly, read this interview from The Chronicle that highlights Dr. David's educational background and examines his research a bit further.
Assignment Details
After reviewing the videos and articles, write a 300 word or more reflection with your responses to what you saw. Some topics you might wish to discuss include but are not limited to:
What was most interesting to you in reviewing these resources?
What did you learn from these resources about the relationships between the digestive system and bacteria?
What new questions do you have after reviewing these resources?
What do these resources tell you about the types of people that do science?