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February 7, 2022

Graduate Scholar Talk: Bentley Shuster, Ph.D.


Optimizing Gram-positive Bacteria as a Candidate

for Targeted Antitumor Therapy


Wednesday, February 9 from 2–3:30pm

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Current limitations in cancer therapies motivated the bioengineering approach to genetically program living cells for cancer therapy. Genetic engineering of bacteria repurposes the natural capabilities of bacterial cells as programmable, safe, and localized vehicles for cancer treatment. While the genetic tools are much more widely available in Gram-negative bacteria like Escherichia coli, there are limits associated with the safety and efficacy of these bacteria. Gram-positive bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, as well as other species of bacilli, are non-pathogenic and have been deemed generally recognized as safe. To date, there has been little effort in engineering B. subtilis for biomedical applications such as cancer drug delivery, despite evidence that several bacilli naturally produce cytotoxic molecules. We aim to identify Gram-positives that can serve as novel candidates for antitumor therapies, while also expanding the available genetic toolbox for species of bacilli in the context of therapeutic drug delivery.

Register on Zoom

Tuesday Talk: Prof. Daniel Richman


The Role of Prosecutors and State Authorities in Police Oversight


Tuesday, February 15 from 1:30–3pm

In his talk, Daniel Richman will explore the promise and limitations of two existing institutions— local prosecutors and state governments—as potential contributors to local police accountability and oversight. What should we be looking to ‘progressive prosecutors’ to accomplish? Why have states done so little in the area historically, and can we expect them to do more?


Daniel Richman is the Paul J. Kellner Professor of Law at Columbia Law School

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Online EPIC Yoga Every Thursday

10–11am and 11:15am–12:15pm

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Professor Emerita Virginia Papaioannou, a registered teacher with the Yoga Alliance, leads EPIC Yoga. No prior experience is required to join. Yoga can benefit people at all levels of physical training and health, but it is always wise to consult with a physician before undertaking any new exercise regime. Modifications will be offered to any participants with specific limitations arising from recovery from injury, arthritis, limited movement, or other causes.


Two one-hour classes are offered each week. The 10–11am class practices breathing techniques and moves through some basic yoga poses, concentrating on alignment, balance, and flexibility. Those with experience move more deeply into the poses. From 11:15am–12:15pm, we practice gentle/chair yoga, which is ideal for those of more limited mobility or flexibility. Classes include breathing, stretching, and yoga poses, done either seated in a chair or standing. No yoga mats are required for this class.


Interested in joining a class or need more info?

Email Lalla Grimes

Renew securely online by making your annual

tax-deductible contribution to the EPIC Gift Fund.

Renew Membership Online

Or mail a check to:

Emeritus Professors in Columbia (EPIC)

Philosophy Hall, 1150 Amsterdam Avenue

Mail Code 9215 / Rm 202A

New York, NY 10027

Do you have questions about EPIC? Email us at epic@columbia.edu.

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