#122 - Using Python (and FastAPI) to support PFAS research

In this podcast episode, Robert Young, the director of an analytical chemistry lab at New Mexico State University, shares his unique journey from being a lawyer to becoming a chemist and a Python programmer. He explains how his passion for environmental causes led him to study chemical analysis and mass spectrometry, initially focusing on the breakdown of endocrine disrupting chemicals in the environment. Robert discusses the challenges of analyzing complex data sets with thousands of molecules and how he learned to use Python and FastAPI to make the analysis more efficient. He also introduces his current project, studying Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), also known as Forever Chemicals, which do not degrade easily and have adverse health effects. Robert's goal was to develop an app using FastAPI +that SQLModel that allows non-programmers to explore PFAS data and filter molecules based on specific criteria. A goal he achieved with us in our Pybites Developer Mindset (PDM) program in which he got this app done (MVP status), enhanced his coding skills, and found a supportive community. He mentions the guidance he received from his coach in architectural design, project planning, and best practices for developer collaboration. Robert plans to deploy his app soon and hopes to involve more contributors in the future. Last but not least, Robert's project showcases the power of Python, FastAPI, and PDM in solving real-world scientific challenges (Forever Chemicals!) and making data analysis accessible to a broader audience. Enjoy our interview with Robert Young! Chapters: 00:00 Intro snippet and music 00:42 Guest and episode intro 01:20 Introducing Robert Young 04:08 Current research field 08:12 PFAS or "forever chemicals" 09:05 The effects of PFAS 12:00 PDM journey and PFAS project 16:36 FastAPI + SQLModel 19:44 Other wins and takeaways from project + PDM 23:24 Tutorial paralysis / Pybites approach 24:50 Using same approach for new tech / next steps app 28:28 How to reach out to Robert 30:00 Book: Manufacturing Consensus 32:00 How do we good information (social media) 35:00 Thanks for joining us today 35:33 Outro music Links: - Reach out to Robert via email - PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) - EPA website - ECHA website - Australian government website - SERDP podcast (sponsors of Robert's PFAS research) - Book mentioned: Manufacturing Consensus - The PDM program