Today we get to chat with Dr. Chana Davis in Vancouver, BC, who has a Bachelor of Science in Genetics from the @University of British Columbia and a Ph.D. in Genetics from @Stanford University.
Dr. Davis says she was always drawn to genetics, and after completing her undergraduate degree, a Ph.D. seemed like the natural next step. Her graduate studies and early career focused on cancer research, diagnostics, and the human microbiome.
After a decade in biomedical research, Dr. Davis switched gears to follow her passion for science communication. She writes a terrific nutrition/health science newsletter called Fueled by Science and hosts a podcast called Get Real Health with Dr. Chana Davis. (See the end for links.)
Here at Dear Pandemic, sheโs the calm and patient voice answering our endless questions about testing–both lab and home testing. She also joined Malia Jones on the Dear Pandemic Live Q&Aโs on several occasions. Weโre certainly glad sheโs here! Give her a big nerdy round of applause!
What do you miss most from the #BeforeTimes?
โI miss big gatherings with my circle of girlfriends. Weโve only seen each other a few times, and usually outdoors. I also miss traveling to see family, connect with friends, and explore new places.โ
What is one thing you really do not miss?โI really do not miss my husbandโs crazy work travel schedule. Itโs been amazing for me and the kids to have him home so much over the last 2 years. I also don’t miss the frequent cold my kids used to bring home during the long, wet, Vancouver winter.โ
Looking back at the last two years, what was a turning point for you?โIt was a huge relief when my parents and in-laws were vaccinated. We felt much more comfortable seeing them after that. The availability of at-home rapid antigen tests was also a game-changer for peace of mind (is this sniffle COVID or a cold?).โ
What is one thing you are really looking forward to in 2022?โWe are going to Hawaii for spring break! It will be my first time on a plane in 2 years.โ
What is your superpower?โI am the queen of keyword searching. I can reliably find just the right term to pull up that elusive email or website page you are looking for. My hubby often taps me for help.โ
[Nerdy note: Yes! Knowing how to find the right information is the better part of wisdom.]
Why do you spend your time volunteering at Dear Pandemic?โAfter witnessing the steep cost of misinformation, I felt an urge to join the anti-misinformation army. Plus, I have always enjoyed teaching science. Itโs in my DNA and my heart.I truly believe that scientific literacy is vital for wellbeing.โ
________
Dr. Davis is based out of Vancouver, British Columbia. Sheโs a mom of three curious and energetic kids: ๐งโ๐ง๐ผ twin girls, age 6, and a boy, age 10. She says โIโm passionate about healthy eating and love helping people dial up the plants on their plate.โ
โI am also a huge advocate for self-care, especially among my fellow parents who often put themselves last. Iโm very consistent about protecting my sleep and making time for daily movement, be it walking, Peloton or strength work.โ Go Dr. Davis!
Find Dr. Davis here at Dear Pandemic and @fueledbyscience on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (links below).
Her podcast, Get Real Health with Dr. Chana Davis , covers a wide range of topics (not just COVID!) – you can get it on her website, or search for it by name on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. On her website, you can also sign up for her newsletter. Check out her articles and family-friendly plant-based recipes!