Katherine Wu

Katherine J. Wu, a staff writer for The Atlantic known for her insightful coverage of science, dives into the Trump administration's cuts to NIH funding. She discusses how these terminations hinder vital research on aging and vaccine hesitancy, causing real challenges for scientists. The conversation highlights the troubling intersection of politics and science, emphasizing the potential stifling of innovation and public health advancements. Wu also shares personal anecdotes reflecting the emotional toll on researchers navigating this turbulent landscape.

Katherine J. Wu, a Staff writer for The Atlantic, sheds light on the turmoil at the NIH, where conflicting directives confuse federal workers amid stalled grant funding. Mahmoud Ghannoum, a microbiologist, dives into the mycobiome, emphasizing the crucial role fungi play in our health. They discuss how fungi interact with bacteria to influence diseases like Crohn's and the rising concerns of antifungal resistance. The conversation also touches on exciting updates in science, including the potential for a woman to break the four-minute mile.

Katherine Wu, a Staff Writer at The Atlantic who has reported on the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020, delves into the intriguing role of raccoon dogs in the origins of the virus. She discusses recent genetic evidence linking these animals to the Huanan Seafood Market, shedding new light on the natural origins of COVID-19. Wu highlights challenges in pandemic research, including data transparency and political influences. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding wildlife in preventing future outbreaks and the need for ongoing dialogue in scientific communities.

Katherine Wu, a health and science writer for The Atlantic, and Lauren Weber, an accountability reporter at The Washington Post, dive into RFK Jr.'s controversial reshaping of the federal vaccine advisory panel. They discuss the potential repercussions of appointing vaccine skeptics and the associated public health risks. The conversation explores the misinformation around vaccination safety, especially concerning autism, and critiques proposed strategies affecting COVID-19 immunization for children. They highlight the broader implications for trust in public health and the importance of reliable health guidance.

EW (Joe) Friday, former director of the National Weather Service, warns about severe funding cuts to NOAA that threaten weather accuracy and safety. Geoff Brumfiel from NPR discusses how the cuts impact crucial scientific groups like the atomic spectroscopy unit at NIST, affecting national security. Katherine Wu from The Atlantic highlights the grassroots monitoring of terminated grants by independent scientists. Together, they explore the looming consequences of these budget reductions on public health, research innovation, and the future of science under political pressures.