Welcome to Gateway to Informatics, a podcast hosted by Dr. Philip Payne, Chief Data Scientist at WashU Medicine and Director of the Institute for Informatics, Data Science, and Biostatistics (I2DB). Each episode features conversations with prominent figures in informatics, research, and healthcare. Our podcast delves into the latest developments, challenges, and innovations in the field, with a particular focus on the integration of AI and digital technologies. By leveraging our healthcare system as a living laboratory, we aim to extract meaningful insights that advance research, save lives, and build healthier communities.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Albert M. Lai, who brings a unique and inspiring background to the table. Coming from a family of physicians, Dr. Lai initially pursued computer science and, serendipitously, discovered the field of informatics. He has since built a remarkable career and currently serves as the Chief Research Information Officer at WashU Medicine. Dr. Lai shares insights into his journey, discussing some of the most rewarding and challenging projects he's undertaken. Additionally, we explore the transformative potential of emerging AI technologies in healthcare, a field in which Dr. Lai is particularly passionate. As a renowned mentor, Dr. Lai offers invaluable advice for students considering a career in informatics.

Gateway to Informatics
i2db.washu.edu/gatewaytoinformatics
Produced by the Institute for Informatics, Data Science & Biostatistics (I2DB), WashU Medicine.
Follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).
Have feedback or questions? Contact us!

Welcome to Gateway to Informatics, a podcast hosted by Dr. Philip Payne, Chief Data Scientist at WashU Medicine and Director of the Institute for Informatics, Data Science, and Biostatistics (I2DB). Each episode features conversations with prominent figures in informatics, research, and healthcare. Our podcast delves into the latest developments, challenges, and innovations in the field, with a particular focus on the integration of AI and digital technologies. By leveraging our healthcare system as a living laboratory, we aim to extract meaningful insights that advance research, save lives, and build healthier communities.

In our inaugural episode, we hear from Dr. Atul Butte - a true trailblazer at the intersection of informatics, digital health, and beyond. Dr. Butte just wrapped up speaking at a big symposium, and he's here to share his unique perspective. Dr. Butte’s got one heck of a career journey, from computer science and medicine in college, to software gigs, academia, entrepreneurship, and now serving as a chief data scientist overseeing the entire UC health system. Throughout it all, he's had incredible mentors who've imparted invaluable wisdom. Dr. Butte also has strong opinions on the promise and perils of generative AI in healthcare, not to mention a few essential travel items he can't live without. So sit back for an insider's look at Atul's remarkable career, his thoughts on health tech's future, and the advice he'd give his younger self.

Gateway to Informatics
i2db.washu.edu/gatewaytoinformatics
Produced by the Institute for Informatics, Data Science & Biostatistics (I2DB), WashU Medicine.
Follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).
Have feedback or questions? Contact us!