The Orthogonal Bet

Niko McCarty on Building Asimov Press and Writing for Ambitious Readers

Mar 5, 2025

Niko McCarty, the founding editor of Asimov Press, shares his journey from biology and science journalism to leading a revolutionary publication. He discusses the unique blend of science fiction with rigorous scientific writing to engage a diverse audience. The conversation dives into groundbreaking biotech advancements, including the ethical innovations in the chicken industry, which aim to reduce male chick disposal. Niko also explores the future of biotechnology, emphasizing the transformative potential of new measurement technologies and AI in biological research.

49:27

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Episode guests

Niko McCarty

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Quick takeaways

Niko McCarty emphasizes the need for profound scientific writing that engages both scientists and general readers through complex biological topics.

Asimov Press's incorporation of science fiction aims to make intricate scientific concepts more accessible and inspire excitement about biological advancements.

Deep dives

Nico McCarty's Path to Science Journalism

Nico McCarty's journey into science journalism began with his early passion for writing, encouraged by his father to pursue science instead. After studying biology and journalism at institutions renowned for their literary contributions, he melded his scientific knowledge with his journalistic ambitions. He initially reported on local science topics for a community magazine while furthering his studies, but it was the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic that catalyzed his return to writing. Transitioning to a Master’s program in Science Journalism at NYU, Nico's proactive outreach to influential figures in the field significantly shaped his career trajectory.

Intro

1min

From Science to Storytelling

12min

The Vision of Asimov Press

12min

From Digital to Print: A Publishing Revolution

5min

Exploring Innovative Biotech Advancements Beyond Human Health

4min

Ethical Innovations in the Chicken Industry: Reducing Male Chick Disposal

3min

Transforming Biotechnology Through Innovation

12min

In this episode of The Orthogonal Bet, host Samuel Arbesman speaks with Niko McCarty, the founding editor of Asimov Press. With a background in biology and science journalism, McCarty now leads Asimov Press, a publication dedicated to deep, thoughtful articles at the frontiers of biology and its history.

Arbesman, a longtime admirer of McCarty’s writing, was eager to explore his insights for many reasons. As the builder of a new press and a curator of compelling scientific narratives, McCarty has a unique perspective on science journalism. But beyond that, he also has his finger on the pulse of the future of biology itself.

Their conversation delves into McCarty’s journey into science journalism and how his newsletter became a transformative force in his career. They discuss his vision for Asimov Press, the reasoning behind publishing science fiction short stories alongside rigorous scientific writing, and the press’s expansion into print publishing—offering a glimpse into how McCarty envisions the future of science communication.

When it comes to biology, Niko provides so much wisdom into how to think about the cutting-edge in biology and biotech. They explore the levers that create biological progress, and Niko’s vision of the future in biology.

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Christopher Gates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music by Suno ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠