Matthew Cobb

Brian Cox and Robin Ince are joined by comedian and author David Baddiel, psychologist Prof Karen Douglas, biologist Prof Matthew Cobb and philosopher Dr Timotheus Vermeulen to discover why conspiracy theories and conspiracy theorists seem to be booming. From flat earthers to moon hoaxers and holocaust deniers, is there something about society today that encourages beliefs that seem to go against all evidence and reason? Or are conspiracies just part of the human condition, and each to their own? Why do some of these alarming theories seem to hold more truth for many than overwhelming data and evidence to the contrary, and how far should we go in accommodating views that seem to have no basis in reality?Executive Producer: Alexandra Feachem

Why are some smells so nasty and others so pleasant? Rutherford and Fry inhale the science of scent in this stinker of an episode. Our sleuths kick off with a guided tour of the airborne molecules and chemical receptors that power the sense of smell. Armed with a stack of pungent mini-flasks, Professor Matthew Cobb from the University of Manchester shows Hannah and Adam just how sensitive olfaction can be, and how our experience of some odours depends on our individual genetic make-up. Dr Ann-Sophie Barwich from Indiana University reveals how most everyday smells are complex combinations of hundreds of odorants, and how the poo-scented molecule of indole turns up in some extremely surprising places.With the help of a flavoured jellybean and some nose clips, Hannah experiences how smell is crucial to flavour, adding complexity and detail to the crude dimensions of taste. Speaking of food, listener Brychan Davies is curious about garlic and asparagus: why do they make us whiff? Professor Barry Smith from the Centre for the Study of the Senses reveals it's down to sulphur-containing compounds, and tells the story of how a cunning scientist managed to figure out the puzzle of asparagus-scented urine. Finally, another listener Lorena Busto Hurtado wants to know whether a person’s natural odour influences how much we like them. Barry Smith says yes - we may sniff each other out a bit like dogs - and cognitive neuroscientist Dr Rachel Herz points to evidence that bodily bouquet can even influence sexual attraction! Producer: Ilan Goodman Contributors: Professor Matthew Cobb, Professor Barry Smith, Dr Ann-Sophie Barwich, Dr Rachel Herz

Marion Koopmans, a renowned virologist instrumental in the development of the COVID-19 PCR test, discusses the urgent need for a sustainable flu surveillance network in Europe to learn from U.S. models. Matthew Cobb, an author and scientist, reflects on the Asilomar conference's legacy in shaping genetic engineering guidelines, while Shobita Parthasarathy raises ethical concerns about equity in scientific self-regulation. The conversation highlights the importance of public trust and inclusive dialogue as science grapples with emerging viral threats.

Join paleontologist Tori Herridge, zoologist Matthew Cobb, and Royal Society librarian Keith Moore as they explore the quirky origins of scientific inquiry. They unveil bizarre endeavors like testing unicorn horn as a spider repellent and discuss how a stunning book on fish nearly derailed Newton's groundbreaking work. With humorous anecdotes about historical artifacts and a nod to the overlooked contributions of women in science, this conversation highlights the delightful absurdities that have shaped scientific progress through the ages.

Matthew Cobb, a zoologist and author from the University of Manchester, dives deep into the world of genetic engineering. He discusses the capabilities and ethical dilemmas of CRISPR technology, questioning its potential to enhance human traits like IQ and athleticism. Cobb highlights past close calls with bioweapon leaks and emphasizes the critical need for regulation in genetic editing. The conversation also touches on the emotional toll of IVF and the implications of human gene editing, particularly reflecting on controversial instances like the gene-edited children in China.