Podcasts

In episode three of What's in a name we look at how ideas can be lost in translation when physicists try to name the unknown.

Potato ‘pangenome’ could allow easier sequencing of new varieties — plus, a Nature analysis reveals the most cited paper written in the twenty-first century.

New sequencing analyses fill in long-awaited gaps in the genomes of six ape species — plus, evidence that laser-plasma particle accelerators could work as well as conventional kinds.

Science journalist and author Carl Zimmer joins us to talk about his new book Air-borne.

Decision comes amidst mass layoffs — plus, administration instructs US biomedical agency to study ‘regret’ after transgender people transition.

Smaller than a grain of rice, this injectable device could allow for minimally invasive heart-surgery — plus, research suggesting that a shingles vaccination reduces the risk of dementia.

Researchers are looking to improve how ageing is measured, but the field is plagued with uncertainties.

Antimicrobial molecule discovered in soil from lab technician’s garden — plus, a huge study assessing the nuances of humans’ impacts on biodiversity.

Laser-based system allows quantum-encrypted information to be beamed across the globe, plus — an AI that can improve other AIs via written feedback, and an update on science in the US in the wake of Trump team’s cuts.

Technique could help researchers probe strange properties of 2D metals — plus, five years after the pandemic, how did COVID change virology?

Evidence suggests deliberate production of bone tools happened much earlier than previously thought — plus, how cells’ waste-disposal systems could help defend against infection.

Evidence suggests that risky play provides a wide-range of benefits to children, despite opportunities to do it becoming more restricted than ever.

Scientists who don’t consistently publish great papers and attract bumper funding are often overlooked, say campaigners for healthier lab environments.

The machine learning algorithm picks up sudden loss of pulse and automatically alerts emergency services — plus, the latest from the Nature Briefing.

Can mindfulness, meditation and other tools designed to boost well-being make a difference? Adam Levy investigates.

When an online platform changed the way customers rated workers, discrimination disappeared — plus, Nature investigates where the most retractions occur.

Studying the impacts of extreme weather events can exact a heavy mental toll. Finding your ‘happy place’ is an important coping strategy.

Particle is estimated to have 30 times higher energy than any previously detected — plus, proposed cuts to NIH grants are put on hold by US judge.

Researchers who investigate highly-politicized topics can face harassment, others for their race, gender identity or disability. Two scientists share their stories.

In episode 2 of What's in a name we look at how choosing names can help, or hinder, attempts to communicate important messages.