This episode features Dr. Daniel Edelman sharing his journey from a traditional Jewish upbringing to pursuing a career in science, despite initial aspirations for a Kollel life. They discuss challenges faced by Orthodox Jewish women in secular fields and initiatives to integrate them into science careers.
Dr. Edelman talkes about a mentorship program he founded addressing cultural clashes and the importance of maintaining personal values. The program’s impact is evident through participant achievements, culminating in presentations at NIH poster day. Over 60 women have benefited, underscoring the importance of mentorship and community support for Orthodox Jewish women in science.
The discussion also raises questions about gender-specific mentorship needs within the community.
About Our Guest:
Daniel Edelman, PhD, initially wanted to be a Rebbe in a Yeshiva Gedolah. However, Rabbi Yaakov Weinberg, ZT”L, suggested Plan B; as in B in Biology! Dr. Edelman earned his M.S. in Applied Molecular Biology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County in 1993. He then worked as a research associate at the VA Medical Center in Baltimore and as a molecular technologist at the University of MD Medical Center in Baltimore. In 1997, Dr. Edelman began dissertation research in infectious disease and earned his PhD in medical pathology in 2005. From 2006-2007, he worked as a scientific reviewer with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Next up was 13 years at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as the laboratory manager of the Clinical Molecular Profiling Core supporting NCI clinical cancer research. While there he also began a program to provide a mentored pathway into the sciences for Orthodox Jewish women. From 2020-2023, Dr. Edelman returned to the FDA as a policy analyst. Now back at NCI since last fall, he now works as a program officer focusing on cancer screening and clinical trials. All statements by Dr. Edelman are his alone and do not reflect those of the US Government.