Manu Prakash

Manu Prakash, a Stanford University bioengineering professor, is known for his innovative FoldScope, a paper microscope aimed at democratizing science. He discusses the essence of 'frugal science' and how it fosters curiosity and personal transformation. Manu highlights the importance of immersing oneself in research environments, drawing on his deep-sea experiences. He reflects on how poorly formed questions can inspire breakthroughs and shares a profound moment of solitude at sea that reshaped his understanding of nature and self.

Manu Prakash, a bioengineering professor at Stanford and co-inventor of the Foldscope, discusses his mission to make science accessible and enjoyable for everyone. He shares his childhood curiosity sparked by a fireworks mishap and his journey towards innovative teaching methods. The conversation highlights the importance of experiential learning and community engagement in science education. Prakash also emphasizes how the Foldscope, a low-cost microscope, democratizes scientific exploration, inspiring curiosity in children and advocating for a cultural shift towards science in everyday life.

Manu Prakash, a biologist, engineer, and professor at Stanford, embarks on an ambitious quest to map every organism on Earth with the help of innovative, low-cost microscopes. Alongside co-inventor Jim Cybulski, he shares insights on the Foldscope, a tool designed to make science accessible to all. They highlight the potential of democratizing scientific exploration and emphasize the importance of creativity in learning. With a passion for enabling curiosity, Manu aims to inspire a global community to engage in discovering the wonders of life.

Becca Franks and Laurie Sellars explore the unintended consequences of fish farming on marine life. They discuss how aquaculture impacts consumer perceptions and biodiversity. Manu Prakash reveals the fascinating properties of the inflatable plankton, shedding light on underwater carbon sinks. Monika Bright shares discoveries of life beneath volcanic vents, showcasing nature's resilience. Finally, Chrysa Avdellidou connects cosmic events to Earth’s history, uncovering origins of a meteor linked to a mass extinction. Each guest brings a unique perspective on life’s tenacity and challenges.

Manu Prakash, a bioengineering professor at Stanford and co-inventor of the Foldscope, shares his vision of democratizing science through accessible tools. He discusses fostering curiosity in scientific inquiry, emphasizing the importance of questioning and exploration in education. The conversation also dives into how the Foldscope, a low-cost paper microscope, can transform scientific engagement for everyone, highlighting the role of community and diverse perspectives in enhancing our understanding of science.