EP1 Decoding the Exposome, AI, and Policy with Dr. Thomas Hartung

OVERVIEW In this episode of The Global Lens, Daniella Sussman sits down with Thilo Stadelmann to explore how artificial intelligence is actually evolving beyond the headlines. The conversation touches on machine learning and the role of science diplomacy while questioning common assumptions about rapid breakthroughs. Together, they focus on what it really takes to build technology that people can trust and that works in service of society.

OVERVIEW Science Diplomacy takes center stage in this episode of The Global Lens, where Nobel Laureate Dr. Peter Agre of Johns Hopkins University reflects on how scientific collaboration can advance international relations in ways politics cannot. Through his remarkable experiences in global engagement and research, Dr. Agre reveals how empathy, evidence, and dialogue remain the most powerful tools for bridging divides. EPISODE SUMMARY In a moving conversation with host Daniella Sussman, Dr. Agre recounts his extraordinary journey from molecular biologist to global envoy for peace. Drawing from his new book Can Scientists Succeed Where Politicians Fail?, he shares personal stories from North Korea, Cuba, and Iran—moments where shared scientific curiosity opened channels of trust amidst deep conflict. He discusses how science diplomacy can protect researchers, strengthen international partnerships, and foster hope even in divided times. Listeners will gain insight into how education, compassion, and persistence can turn science into a force for global cooperation.

OVERVIEW In this episode of The Global Lens, host Daniella Sussman speaks with Professor Ugo Amaldi about science diplomacy and international scientific collaboration through the lens of CERN and global research cooperation. Drawing on decades of leadership in large-scale experiments, Amaldi reflects on how sustained partnerships shape the future of research, from quantum technologies to medical innovation. The conversation highlights how collaborative science advances discovery while building trust across geopolitical boundaries. EPISODE SUMMARY From Cold War collaborations with Soviet scientists to pioneering CERN experiments and advancing cancer therapy with hadron beams, this episode traces the evolution of global scientific cooperation. Amaldi shares lessons learned from managing large international teams, translating fundamental physics into life-saving treatments, and establishing durable networks across nations. The conversation also examines disparities in research investment within Europe and advocates for sustained, long-term commitment to science as a foundation for diplomacy and progress. Throughout, collaboration is presented not just as an ideal, but as a practical necessity for advancing knowledge and fostering peace. In this episode, we discuss: 01:41 – Introduction to the importance of international scientific collaboration 03:30 – Cold War era science and cross-cultural cooperation with Soviet physicists 04:10 – Building large-scale international collaborations at CERN 05:54 – Balancing innovation and stability in complex experiments 09:08 – Transition from work in particle physics to pioneering cancer therapy 18:20 – European disparities in research funding and investment 21:35 – Advice to future scientists: curiosity, optimism, and collaboration

OVERVIEW This episode of The Global Lens explores the intersection of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and science diplomacy, and how these forces are transforming national security and global cooperation. Daniella Sussman and Dr. José-Marie Griffiths explore Dakota State University’s role in turning applied AI research into real-world impact. Education emerges as a strategic force and soft power in the evolving AI landscape. EPISODE SUMMARY Dr. Griffiths reflects on transforming Dakota State University into a cyber and AI powerhouse by aligning research, policy, and workforce development. She outlines how applied labs, global partnerships, and inclusive education models help translate innovation into real-world impact. The episode also explores how higher education can function as science diplomacy by building trust, shared standards, and ethical AI frameworks across borders. Throughout, Dr. Griffiths stresses the responsibility educators and policymakers share in shaping AI to benefit society rather than control it. In this episode, we discuss: 01:39 - Building Dakota State’s strong and advanced cyber-AI foundation 04:08 - AI's transformative and evolving impact on higher education 07:16 - Empowering accessible and ethical global AI innovation through inclusion 09:32 - Higher education driving real-world global impact and discovery 15:00 - Shaping ethical global AI standards and open data sharing 17:37 - Policymakers learning from DSU's integrated AI education approach 24:31 - Ensuring responsible AI design, development, and collaboration ABOUT THE GUEST Dr. José-Marie Griffiths is President of Dakota State University, where she has led transformational growth since 2015. Her leadership and contributions have earned her more than 20 major awards, including recognition as a USA Today Woman of the Year and one of InspiredMinds!’ 50 Influential Women in AI. A physicist and information scientist by training, Dr. Griffiths has held leadership roles across research, government, and higher education, with a special focus on STEM and cyber fields. She has served on the National Science Board, the U.S. President’s Information Technology Advisory Committee, and the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence. Today, she continues this work as an advisor to the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP). Dr. Griffiths has led projects with more than 28 federal agencies, including NASA and the Department of Energy, collaborated with major corporations such as IBM and Apple, and partnered with international organizations including NATO and the United Nations.

OVERVIEW Science Diplomacy sits at the center of International Relations and US-India cooperation in this episode of The Global Lens, where host Daniella Sussman speaks with Neetisha Besra about building durable research bridges between the two countries. The conversation examines how academic institutions, policy frameworks, and people-to-people ties are shaping a deeper and more strategic U.S.–India partnership. EPISODE SUMMARY This episode explores how research collaboration has become a powerful diplomatic tool between the United States and India. Neetisha Besra offers insight into how universities operate as connectors across governments, disciplines, and borders. The discussion highlights the practical work behind sustaining long-term partnerships, from navigating policy environments to aligning institutional priorities. Listeners gain a grounded view of how global challenges are increasingly addressed through collaborative research ecosystems rather than bilateral politics alone. In this episode, we discuss: 00:46 - Setting the stage for the U.S.–India research corridor 01:48 - Why 2025–2026 marks a critical window for the U.S.–India scientific partnership 07:15 - The research corridor as a living, operational ecosystem 10:05 - Institutional programs enabling sustained bilateral collaboration 13:21 - India RISE Fellowship and supporting women scientists in STEM 18:58 - Breakthrough grants and catalytic funding for high-risk research 29:29 - Measuring diplomatic impact beyond papers and patents