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EAT LIKE THE ANIMALS

Ep 1. Curiosity, childhood and the natural world: the making of two scientists

Jun 15, 2020
In this fascinating discussion, Professors David Raubenheimer and Steve Simpson share their journeys from curious children to leading scientists in nutritional ecology. They recount hilarious childhood experiments, like reconstructing a cow skeleton and David's bee hypothesis. Their collaboration at Oxford sparked groundbreaking research on locusts, unveiling complex dietary needs. The conversation emphasizes how nurturing curiosity and challenging established norms can lead to pivotal scientific discoveries.
45:13

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The childhood curiosity fostered by supportive parents was pivotal in shaping the scientific careers of Professors Simpson and Raubenheimer.
  • Their groundbreaking research on locusts revealed that animals prioritize protein over carbohydrates, challenging traditional views of dietary selection in ecology.

Deep dives

Interdisciplinary Connections

The conversation highlights the surprising similarities between scientific and creative processes. Both scientists and artists often start with a lingering question that drives their exploration, leading to unexpected discoveries and eureka moments when connections become clear. The speaker recounts her experiences at the Charles Perkins Centre, where she observed how collaboration across disciplines fosters breakthroughs in understanding the interconnectedness of food, health, and the environment. This partnership between creativity and science emphasizes the essential role each plays in driving innovation and understanding the complexities of life.

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