Nell Greenfieldboyce

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR's science correspondent, dives into the enigmatic world of narwhals and their fascinating tusks. She discusses rare drone footage that has revealed new tusk activities, including their roles in social behaviors and hunting techniques. Personal stories from an Inuit community add depth to the conversation. Nell also highlights the challenges researchers face studying these elusive creatures and the implications of climate change on their habitat. Join her as she unveils the mysteries of the 'unicorn of the sea'!

Nell Greenfieldboyce, an NPR science correspondent with a focus on gravitational waves, dives into the groundbreaking discoveries in the realm of astrophysics. She explains how gravitational waves reveal the echoes of cosmic events like black hole mergers. The podcast highlights the innovative design of LIGO, the challenges of detection, and the global scientific collaboration that led to a historic Nobel Prize win in 2015. Listeners will learn about the future of gravitational wave astronomy and its potential to unravel the mysteries of the universe.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, an NPR science correspondent, delves into the bizarre tale of an eight-year-old Twinkie that transformed into a spooky mummified snack. She discusses the surprising science behind its moldy companion and how researchers unraveled the mysteries of fungal growth and preservation. This exploration juxtaposes childhood nostalgia with reflections on decay, prompting listeners to ponder the timelessness of snacks and the fleeting nature of memories.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, an NPR science correspondent with a keen focus on the Nobel Prizes, joins Maddie Sofia to unpack the complexities surrounding these prestigious awards. They discuss the historical bias in winners, particularly the glaring gender and racial disparities in science. The conversation dives into the opaque nomination process and critiques the harm these accolades can do to scientific collaboration. They also explore alternative recognition methods that aim to celebrate diverse contributions, highlighting the need for inclusivity in honoring scientific achievements.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR's science correspondent and expert on genetic research, discusses the groundbreaking creation of the first genetically altered squid. She highlights the shift to squids as innovative model organisms, moving beyond traditional lab critters. The conversation dives into their intelligence and unique adaptations, making them ideal for studying genetics and human health. Ethical considerations surrounding this research are also examined, sparking thought on the future of laboratory studies with these fascinating cephalopods.