EPISODE DESCRIPTION

What drives groundbreaking women in science to push beyond boundaries? In this episode of Life of Her Mind, Mia Wood sits down with Dr. Shella Keilholz, Principal Investigator in The Keilholz Mind Lab at Emory University and Georgia Tech. Dr. Keilholz discusses her academic journey, starting with physics and eventually focusing on non-invasive brain imaging through MRI. 

Hear Dr. Keilholz:

 - explain how her interest in combining physics with medical science led to the study of biomedical engineering, particularly MRI technology
 - describe her transition from studying blood flow and kidneys to brain imaging during her postdoc position at NIH, where she had access to high-field MRI scanners
 - discuss an interdisciplinary research approach to scientific knowledge, highlighting the challenges and benefits of collaborating across fields like physics and neuroscience
 - emphasize the importance of understanding brain function, including the role of neuromodulatory nuclei in controlling large areas of the cortex
 - reflect on the nature of science as a search for truth and the need to embrace complexity rather than oversimplifying findings
 - discuss the overhyping of research results and the public's tendency to view science as providing definitive answers, rather than understanding the nuances and uncertainties involved

If  you’re inspired by women who are reimagining science and shaping the future of discovery, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.  

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International Day of Women and Girls in Science Giveaway - Official Rules

Prize: Four (4) winners will each receive a $25 gift card the the Labroots Science Store

How to Enter: Comment on any episode of Life of Her Mind on your preferred podcast platform with either: (a) a question you'd love to ask a woman scientist, OR (b) your favorite Life of Her Mind episode or guest Subscribe to Life of Her Mind wherever you listen to podcasts for 10 bonus entries (optional)
       1. Submit the entry form here with your name, email, and confirmation of steps completed.

Entry Period: Entries accepted from January 29, 2026 8:00 am through February 11, 2026 5:00 pm PST.

Eligibility: Open to listeners 18 years or older. Void where prohibited by law. Winner Selection: Four winners will be selected via random drawing on or around February 12, 2026. Winners will be notified via email within 48 hours of selection and must respond within 72 hours to claim prize. If a winner does not respond, an alternate winner will be selected.

Limit: One entry per person.

Additional Terms:
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Questions? Contact us at podcasts@labroots.com

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HOST AND GUEST

• 

  Mia Wood

  Professor

  BIOGRAPHY
• 

  Shella Keilholz, Ph.D.

  Professor, Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University & Georgia Institute of Technology

  BIOGRAPHY