Ian Sample

Kate Adamala, a synthetic biology professor who builds simple lab-made cells, and Ian Sample, a science journalist who explains the findings. They describe tiny “spud” blobs that grow, divide and carry minimal DNA. The conversation covers how the blobs are made, what they can and cannot do, debates about whether they count as living, and the ethical and safety questions raised by building life-like systems.

Ian Sample, Guardian science editor known for reporting on major science stories, explains a study that identifies four types of thinker. He also covers the unprecedented cyclosporiasis outbreak in the US and the public‑health challenges it poses. Finally, he discusses funding cuts threatening Jodrell Bank and the future of the Lovell telescope.

Ian Sample, The Guardian’s science editor and a specialist in research, medicine and technology, explores the quirky Ig Nobel-winning studies that make science laugh and think. They investigate whether wealth is linked to ethical misbehaviour, why we may want friends to oppose our enemies, and how scientists define kissing across species. Plus: animal sexual behaviour and the microbiome-swapping risks of a kiss.

Ian Sample, The Guardian’s science editor, and Samuel Erikson, a University of Bristol particle-physics researcher, explore a tantalising dark matter signal. They discuss the underground xenon detector behind the result, why a single event falls short of discovery, and how future data could confirm or erase it. If verified, the finding could transform physics and reveal the universe’s hidden matter.

Dr Oliver Gibson, Brunel researcher on heat stress, and Ian Sample, science editor at The Guardian, unpack World Cup science. They discuss extreme heat risks and wet-bulb globe temperature. They cover physiological strain on players and suggested mitigations. They probe fossil-fuel sponsorship and carbon footprints. They also explore how on-field video reviews reshape referee psychology and fan experience.

Jan Wörner, former ESA director who led major space programs; Ross Andersen, Atlantic writer on space and culture; Ian Sample, science editor at The Guardian. They discuss Artemis II and NASA timelines. They compare lunar and Martian missions. They debate Apollo’s cultural legacy, the science goals at lunar poles, the push for sustained international cooperation, and the politics shaping modern lunar plans.

Ian Sample, Science editor at The Guardian, discusses the revolutionary IVF technique that has led to the birth of eight healthy babies using DNA from three parents. He highlights the desperate battle against mitochondrial diseases that this method addresses. Prof. Sir Doug Turnbull shares insights from the 25-year journey to achieve this breakthrough, emphasizing the emotional weight for families affected. The podcast navigates the ethical dilemmas and regulatory challenges surrounding this innovative approach, offering a hopeful glimpse into the future of reproductive medicine.

In this enlightening discussion, Ian Sample, the science editor at The Guardian, tackles the recent claims made by Donald Trump regarding autism, paracetamol, and vaccinations. Ian discusses the scientific consensus debunking the supposed link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and autism. He highlights a substantial Swedish study that refutes these claims and elaborates on the lack of evidence supporting the vaccine-autism myth. The conversation also addresses the implications of such misinformation on public health and medical trust.

Ian Sample, The Guardian’s science editor and a specialist in health, technology and the environment, explores three timely stories. A study of newborn girls’ attention to faces revisits nature versus nurture. A record-breaking El Niño threatens devastating global impacts. And a rapid UK meningitis outbreak reveals how genetic changes made the bacteria more dangerous.

Ian Sample, The Guardian's science editor, and Dr. Michael Head, a public health researcher, dive into fascinating science stories. They discuss a study showing how positive thinking may enhance immune response. Dr. Head sheds light on the rising scabies cases in the UK, tackling symptoms, transmission challenges, and stigma. The duo also uncovers the surprising intelligence of cows, focusing on a cow named Veronica, who has been documented using tools. Their insights reveal the underestimated cognitive abilities of these animals.