Global Lunchbox Podcast featuring Professor Thomas McDade: “Coronavirus antibodies: Who has them and what does it mean?”
March 15, 2021
Northwestern Professor Thomas McDade discusses his COVID-19 research on coronavirus antibodies on the Global Lunchbox Podcast episode, “Coronavirus antibodies: Who has them and what does it mean?” McDade launched a large community-based study called SCAN: Screening for Coronavirus Antibodies in Neighborhoods in June 2020. SCAN aims to track the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and to identify the circumstances and behaviors associated with exposure and severity of infection.
McDade is Professor of Anthropology, Director of the Laboratory for Human Biology Research, and Director of Cells to Society (C2S): The Center on Social Disparities and Health in the Institute for Policy Research at Northwestern. He is a biological anthropologist whose work is primarily concerned with the dynamic interrelationships among society, biology and health over the life-course, with an emphasis on life-course approaches to stress and the human immune system.
The Global Lunchbox series, hosted by the Center for International & Area Studies at Northwestern University, features conversations with scholars in the social sciences and humanities about their current research on a range of critical global issues.
Science & Technology
Northwestern accelerates quantum research with NVIDIA technology
September 19, 2025
NVIDIA code could help researchers tackle computationally demanding tasks hindering quantum research Northwestern University physicists are using NVIDIA technology to tackle the computationally demanding tasks hindering quantum research. Northwestern theoretical physicist Jens Koch and his research group…
CRISPR’s efficiency triples with DNA-wrapped nanoparticles
September 18, 2025
New system delivers CRISPR machinery more safely and effectively into cells With the power to rewrite the genetic code underlying countless diseases, CRISPR holds immense promise to revolutionize medicine. But until scientists can deliver its…
Passion for the planet: A new generation of environmental stewards starts here
May 29, 2025
Over the last two decades, the Weinberg College-housed Program in Environmental Policy and Culture (EPC) at Northwestern has embraced the humanities and social sciences and cultivated a new generation of environmental stewards. Growing up in…
Northwestern receives $25 million gift to advance adolescent mental health research
May 16, 2025
New institute will study psychology of emerging adults, leading to innovative wellness programming for students at the University and beyond Northwestern University is launching the Institute for Adolescent Mental Health and Well-Being, an interdisciplinary initiative…

