Samoan Scientist Podcast

Dr. Saki is serving as the associate dean for the Faculty of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Otago. He is involved in leadership roles, research on antimicrobial resistance, and advocating for more Pacific people to pursue post-grad and PhD studies. He emphasizes the importance of networking and supporting Pacific students in their research endeavors. Takeaways Leadership in Biomedical Sciences Research on Antimicrobial Resistance Chapters 00:00 Leadership in Biomedical Sciences and Pacific Student Support 03:08 Research on Antimicrobial Resistance and Pacific Community Impact 13:47 Mentoring Pacific Students and Scholarships for Post-Grad Studies 17:43 Collaborative Research and Advocacy for Pacific Communities

The conversation covers the importance of infectious disease surveillance in Fiji, the impact of research on community health, and the journey of the researcher and the support from the community. Takeaways Infectious Disease Surveillance Research and Impact on Community Chapters 00:00 Infectious Disease Surveillance in Fiji 02:27 Impact of Research on Community Health 04:27 Journey and Community Support

The conversation covers various aspects of cell culture and molecular biology, including the use of bacteria, cell lines, techniques for analyzing data, and lab protocols. The discussion also touches on the use of waste bottles and the process of splitting cells. Takeaways Cell lines are used in the lab as an alternative to live tissue for research purposes. Analyzing data using techniques like flow cytometry and luminescence is crucial for understanding the science behind diseases. Chapters 00:00 Cell Culture and Molecular Biology 03:03 Lab Techniques and Protocols 09:12 Data Analysis and Techniques

Originally recorded in June 2026 for 531pi's Island Time during Sāmoan Language Week. I'm excited to share this interview here on the podcast. We talk about my journey as the Samoan Scientist, how my research explores the connections between traditional Samoan foods, genetics, and type 2 diabetes, and why making science accessible to Pacific communities matters. We also discuss the inspiration behind this podcast and my mission to bring health research out of the lab and into conversations that empower Pacific families to make informed decisions about their health.

The Problem Was Never Our Genetics What if the key to better health for Pacific peoples wasn't a new diet trend or medication, but the foods our ancestors had been eating for generations? In this episode, Samoan scientist Amy Maslen-Miller explores the traditional Samoan diet through both cultural knowledge and modern science. From talo, ufi, ulu, fa'i, niu, and seafood, to the umu cooking method and traditional food preservation practices, we uncover how ancestral food systems supported health long before the rise of chronic disease. Amy also examines how colonisation, migration, and changing food environments transformed Pacific diets, contributing to the growing burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes seen today. Drawing on emerging research in nutrition, metabolic health, and Pacific genetics, she discusses why the problem was never our genes, and how traditional foods may offer important insights for improving health outcomes for future generations. This episode explores culture, history, science, and the growing evidence that some of the most powerful health solutions may already exist within Pacific knowledge systems.