What happens when a scientist changes disciplines multiple times and transforms how we understand animal behavior?
In this episode, Rebecka Sepela shares her journey from chemistry to biophysics to sensory biology and how scientific curiosity led her into groundbreaking octopus research. Rebecka is a L’Oréal For Women in Science Fellowship award recipient, a L’Oréal For Women in Science Fellow, and an award winning L’Oréal For Women in Science Fellow recognized for her impact in advancing scientific discovery.
We explore her pioneering research on octopus chemosensation and microbial chemical signaling, uncovering how microbes influence animal decision making and communication. Her work reveals how microbial signals shape behavior in octopuses and other species, expanding our understanding of neuroscience, sensory biology, marine biology, and animal communication.
Rebecka also shares powerful lessons on mentorship, perseverance, adaptable thinking, and navigating a scientific career across multiple disciplines. From childhood experiments to high impact research, her story highlights the importance of curiosity, resilience, and embracing uncertainty in science.
This conversation is perfect for early career scientists, STEM students, neuroscience enthusiasts, marine biology lovers, and anyone interested in microbiology, animal behavior, and scientific innovation.
If you are questioning your path, considering switching fields, or chasing big research questions, this episode will inspire you to follow your curiosity and redefine what is possible in science.
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