Radiolab
The Age of Aquaticus
Apr 25, 2025
Hudson Freeze, a key figure in the discovery of the heat-loving organism Thermus aquaticus, shares how their groundbreaking work in Yellowstone transformed biology and led to PCR technology. Carl Zimmer, a New York Times columnist, discusses the alarming cuts to public science funding and their potential consequences. Together, they highlight the unexpected miracles that basic research can yield and underscore the vital need for continued investment in science, especially in this critical era.
43:00
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Quick takeaways
- The discovery of the heat-loving microorganism Thermus aquaticus revolutionized molecular biology by enabling the development of the PCR technique.
- Current funding cuts to scientific research threaten not only ongoing studies but also the future of innovation and scientific leadership.
Deep dives
The Journey to Yellowstone
Hudson Freeze's journey to Yellowstone National Park marked a pivotal moment in his scientific career. Initially interested in studying mating types in yeast, he was redirected by Dr. Thomas Brock to investigate the possibility of life in extreme heat conditions found in hot springs. The prevailing scientific opinion at the time suggested that life could not exist above 73 degrees Celsius, but Brock believed that these unique environments could harbor previously undiscovered microbes. Excited by this opportunity, Freeze traveled from his small Indiana town to Yellowstone, where he would help collect samples from the steaming hot springs, setting the stage for groundbreaking discoveries in microbiology.
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