Rob Stein

Rob Stein, an NPR health correspondent, discusses the CDC advisory committee's controversial recommendation to delay hepatitis B vaccines for newborns, potentially reversing decades of progress in combating the disease. Mandalit Delbarco, a culture correspondent, dives into Netflix's blockbuster $83 billion acquisition of Warner Bros., exploring the impact on Hollywood and concerns over antitrust issues. Scott Horsley, an economics correspondent, analyzes consumer sentiment trends and the Federal Reserve's complex decisions about interest rates amid ongoing inflation.

Rob Stein, NPR's health correspondent, shares the groundbreaking story of Tawana Looney, the first person to receive a genetically modified pig kidney. Tawana, a resilient grandmother from Alabama, had been on dialysis for years before this pioneering transplant. Stein was present in the operating room, providing an exclusive look at the procedure. They discuss the ethical controversies surrounding animal organ transplants and the potential for this innovation to address the severe shortage of human donors. Tawana's inspiring recovery highlights hope in this medical frontier.

Rob Stein, a seasoned NPR science correspondent, dives into the controversial world of gene editing. He discusses He Jiankui's shocking announcement of the first gene-edited babies, sparking intense ethical debates. Stein explores innovative advancements in embryo editing that promise safer alternatives to traditional methods. The conversation also tackles the urgent need for regulation amidst fears of a resurgence in eugenics. With the rapid evolution of genetic research, Stein emphasizes the importance of public dialogue on these profound topics.

Rob Stein, NPR science correspondent, dives into the groundbreaking field of in vitro gametogenesis (IVG). He discusses how researchers are trying to create artificial sperm and eggs from any human cell, opening doors for anyone, including older and LGBTQ+ individuals, to have genetically related children. The conversation highlights the fierce global competition between Japan and the U.S. in creating artificial human embryos. Ethical concerns surrounding genetic manipulation and the potential for 'biologically superior' individuals are also put under the microscope.

Rob Stein and Katia Riddle, NPR health and science correspondents, discuss the significant slashing of federal science funding in 2025. They highlight concerns from scientists about losing the U.S.'s competitive edge and lure for young researchers, who now consider moving abroad for stability. Stein provides insights into the fallout at agencies like NIH, where staff cuts and grant cancellations have demoralized the workforce. Riddle addresses the turmoil faced by NSF, NOAA, and NASA, painting a bleak picture for future scientific innovation.

Rob Stein, a reporter from NPR specializing in health and science, dives into the fascinating world of genetic engineering. He discusses how Dallas-based Colossal Biosciences is creating woolly mice, which serve as a stepping stone to potentially reviving the woolly mammoth. The conversation explores the innovative techniques used, the ethical dilemmas of de-extinction, and how such efforts could aid in ecological restoration. Stein raises crucial questions about the balance between reviving extinct species and conserving those currently at risk.

Rob Stein, NPR's science correspondent, discusses the significant shift of COVID-19 becoming an endemic disease. He explains what this means for public health strategies and why vigilance remains crucial, especially for vulnerable populations. The conversation addresses the ongoing risks of long COVID and the necessity of continuing vaccination efforts. Stein also touches on the potential for combined vaccines for COVID and the flu, highlighting the evolving landscape of health management in this new phase.

In this insightful discussion, NPR health correspondent Rob Stein sheds light on the groundbreaking research in in vitro gametogenesis (IVG). He reveals how IVG could allow anyone with their own DNA to create eggs and sperm, opening doors for infertile individuals and queer couples to have biologically related children. Stein also addresses the excitement surrounding these innovations alongside the ethical concerns, particularly the risks of commercialization and designer babies. This technology has the potential to revolutionize human reproduction as we know it!

Rob Stein, NPR health correspondent, dives into the ongoing rollout of COVID-19 vaccine boosters. He discusses the FDA's expected authorization of boosters for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, raising ethical concerns about prioritizing U.S. boosters over global vaccine needs. The conversation also covers the complexities of vaccinating the unvaccinated, upcoming options for children aged 5 to 11, and how booster shots could enhance immunity amidst rising variants. Preparing for a return to normalcy remains a key focus as safety measures persist.

Rob Stein, NPR science correspondent, dives into the complexities of breakthrough infections during the Delta variant surge and the unsettling phenomenon of long COVID in vaccinated individuals. He explains how these breakthrough cases can lead to lingering symptoms, impacting daily life long after initial recovery. Personal stories reveal the unexpected challenges faced by those with long COVID, highlighting the importance of vaccination while emphasizing the need for ongoing safety measures in the fight against the virus.