David Grimm

Angela Saini, books host and science writer, and Valerie Thompson, Science books editor, discuss picking biographies and what they reveal about scientists. Jackie Leach Scully, bioethics professor, explores ethical pitfalls of epigenetics and potential social harms. Adrian Cho, physics writer, unpacks debates over black hole singularities. David Grimm, online news editor, shares quirky and important recent science stories like spiders’ heartbeats and housing trials.

David Grimm, Online News Editor for Science Magazine, shares viral science stories from the year, including the quirks of corpse-eating pets and fan efficiency in heat. The discussion then shifts to updates from former guests: Erick Lundgren revisits his research on donkeys digging wells in deserts, Katie Hampson discusses evolving rabies research in Tanzania, and Ashley Thomas explores children's understanding of social relationships. These captivating insights highlight the intersection of science, ecology, and cognitive development.

David Grimm, Online News Editor for Science Magazine, examines the intriguing connection between an ancient Egyptian cult that sacrificed cats and the domestication of these beloved pets. Agnit Mukhopadhyay, a research affiliate at the University of Michigan, discusses a fascinating magnetic pole shift that occurred 41,000 years ago, its environmental implications, and how it might affect us today. Together, they unravel the intersections of animal history and Earth's magnetic mysteries, shedding light on our past and future.

David Grimm, Online News Editor for Science, discusses the remarkable evolution of anteaters, which have adapted at least twelve times to their insectivorous diets. He also reveals how the unique structure of peacock feathers allows them to emit laser light, sparking innovation in science. Ashley Blawas, a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford's Hopkins Marine Station, shares groundbreaking insights into the lunge-feeding technique of giant whales, highlighting their surprisingly energy-efficient feeding strategy that defies previous assumptions. It's a fascinating dive into evolution and marine biology!

Join Online News Editor David Grimm, Producer Meagan Cantwell, and Contributing News Editor Greg Miller as they explore this year's scientific marvels. They delve into how bird feeders can influence hummingbird beak evolution, and discuss the implications of a confirmed Denisovan skull from ancient DNA. Discover breakthroughs in gene editing therapies and advancements in xenotransplantation with pig kidneys. They also highlight renewable energy's rise as a significant breakthrough, setting the stage for a sustainable future.