Physician Scientist Career Insights

Boomer Olsen, a medical student and research fellow, shares his journey from sports to medicine after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. He explains his research on diabetes at the Broad Institute and the role of glucose and insulin in the body. Boomer discusses diabetes management, including the use of insulin pumps, and his goal to improve diabetes therapies. He concludes by describing the rewarding career of a physician scientist, combining patient care, research, and education.

What was Boomer Olsen's initial career aspiration?

• Professional Athlete

• Medical Doctor

• Research Scientist

• Teacher

What prompted Boomer to leave the football team?

• A move to a different university

• A lack of interest in sports

• A desire to focus on medicine and science

• An injury

What is the primary function of glucose in the body?

• To repair tissues

• To build muscle

• To fight infections

• To provide energy

How does insulin assist glucose in the body?

• By converting it into fat

• By breaking it down

• By transporting it to the liver

• By helping it enter the muscles

What happens to the pancreas in diabetes?

• It becomes larger

• It starts producing glucose

• It produces too much insulin

• It stops producing insulin

What is the purpose of an insulin pump?

• To monitor blood sugar levels

• To administer insulin automatically

• To store glucose

• To replace the pancreas

What is a key goal of Boomer's research at the Broad Institute?

• To find a cure for type 2 diabetes

• To create a new sports therapy

• To make beta cells multiply

• To develop a new type of insulin

What is a physician scientist?

• A professional who combines medical practice with research

• A scientist who only conducts research

• A teacher of medical students

• A doctor who only treats patients

What additional role do many physician scientists take on?

• Pharmaceutical sales

• Hospital administration

• Teaching

• Sports coaching

What does Boomer encourage students to consider as a career?

• Professional athlete

• Artist

• Engineer

• Physician scientist