The Translational Addiction Podcast #4: A Talk with Dr. Michelle Ren

In this episode of the Translational Addiction Podcast, hosts Michaela Sumortin and Tanvi Garneni sit down with Michelle Ren, PhD, a UC Irvine alumna and former researcher in the Lotfipour Lab, to explore her scientific journey and passion for addiction research. Ren shares how her early curiosity in neuroscience led her to investigate the gut-brain axis and its role in opioid use, culminating in a compelling study on the gut microbiome’s influence on addiction. She reflects on her formative experiences at UC Irvine, the mentorship she received, and how working in the Lotfipour Lab helped shape her identity as a scientist and writer. Now pursuing a career in scientific communication, Ren discusses the importance of translating complex research into accessible language and offers advice for aspiring researchers. The conversation also touches on misconceptions about addiction and the need for more compassionate, science-informed perspectives. Whether you're a student, scientist, or simply curious about the intersection of biology and behavior, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a humanizing look at the research behind addiction.

Listen now on lotfipourlab.org