In this special episode of FYH News, we sit down with Dr. Paule Joseph, a nurse scientist and investigator, whose groundbreaking work is reshaping the way we think about sensory health. As a member of NMQF’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2020, Dr. Joseph shares how her personal journey — from working bedside as a nurse to leading research on taste and smell — continues to be driven by curiosity and purpose.

Her research focuses on the chemical senses of taste and smell and their connection to early detection of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s — especially in underserved communities where these conditions are often misdiagnosed or go unnoticed for too long. Dr. Joseph explains that changes in taste or smell, such as someone suddenly overseasoning their food or losing interest in eating, can be early warning signs that clinicians and families should pay attention to.

She also emphasizes the urgent need for screening tools that can be used in primary care, especially for communities of color that are often left out of sensory science research. Her goal is to help embed these tools into everyday clinical settings so patients can be identified and treated earlier — and equitably.

Representation matters in every field of healthcare, Dr. Joseph says, and sensory science is no exception. She calls on researchers and clinicians to diversify their study populations and invites young professionals to pursue work in this often-overlooked area of health.

“When we give up on our curiosity, we give up on our communities,” she says.

Watch the full episode now and learn how science, equity, and innovation are coming together to improve lives.