The Infinite Monkey Cage
BBC Radio 4
Professor Brian Cox and Robin Ince host a witty, irreverent look at the world through scientists’ eyes. Joined by a panel of scientists, experts and celebrity science enthusiasts they investigate life, the universe and everything in between on The Infinite Monkey Cage from the BBC. From the smallest building blocks of life to the furthest stars, the curious monkeys pull apart the latest science to reveal fascinating and often bizarre insights into the world around us and what lies beyond. Can trees talk to each other? Can science help you commit the perfect murder? What might aliens look like and the burning question of our time, are strawberries alive or dead? Join them as each episode they put a different scientific topic under the microscope, from aliens, black holes and hedgehogs, to bacteria, poison and the Big Bang.
With past guests including actors Dame Judi Dench and Sir Patrick Stewart, comedians Steve Martin and Conan O’Brien, astronaut Tim Peake, primatologist Jane Goodall and mathematician Hannah Fry, The Infinite Monkey Cage promises to make you laugh, enrich your knowledge and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the universe that we call home.
Whether you’re a seasoned scientist or someone who nodded off in physics class, listen in to learn all about funny, fascinating and sometimes ridiculous topics – with the occasional monkey business.
With past guests including actors Dame Judi Dench and Sir Patrick Stewart, comedians Steve Martin and Conan O’Brien, astronaut Tim Peake, primatologist Jane Goodall and mathematician Hannah Fry, The Infinite Monkey Cage promises to make you laugh, enrich your knowledge and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the universe that we call home.
Whether you’re a seasoned scientist or someone who nodded off in physics class, listen in to learn all about funny, fascinating and sometimes ridiculous topics – with the occasional monkey business.
Episodes
Mentioned books
34 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 42min
The North Pole Unwrapped - Russell Kane, Felicity Aston and Lloyd Peck
This festive conversation features Felicity Aston, a polar explorer who shares mesmerizing tales of the North Pole and the science behind the aurora, and Lloyd Peck, a polar physiologist who dives into the extraordinary adaptations of marine life. They tackle topics like the challenges of navigating the Arctic, the bizarre creatures beneath the ice, and how climate change threatens these remote ecosystems. With humor and insight, they explore the emotional impact of experiencing the northern lights and the necessity of conservation efforts.
30 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 43min
Monkey Business - Robin Dunbar, Dave Gorman and Jo Setchell
Join evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar, who introduces the fascinating concept of Dunbar's number, and anthropologist Jo Setchell, who discusses the colorful mating rituals of mandrills. Comedian Dave Gorman adds humor as they delve into why some primates have lasting bonds, while others are more fleeting. Discover how scent and grooming are vital for maintaining social groups and learn about the unexpected pleasures of primate sexuality. It's a wild ride through the social lives of our furry relatives!
69 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 42min
Head in the Clouds - Owain Wyn Evans, Gavin Pretor-Pinney, Amanda Maycock
Join Gavin Pretor-Pinney, founder of the Cloud Appreciation Society, Amanda Maycock, an atmospheric scientist, and Owain Wyn Evans, the 'drumming weatherman', as they transform clouds into a captivating narrative. They delve into cloud formation mysteries, the art of cloud classification, and how high and low clouds affect our climate. Owain shares funny weather anecdotes, while Amanda explains optical displays like sun dogs. The trio celebrates the beauty and science behind clouds, reminding us why our skies are worth appreciating.
75 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 42min
Fusion – Ria Lina, Yasmin Andrew and Howard Wilson
In this engaging discussion, Howard Wilson, a seasoned fusion expert, and plasma physicist Yasmin Andrew share insights into the complexities of fusion energy. They break down how the sun generates energy and the challenges of recreating this on Earth. Ria Lina brings humor to the table, questioning the science while adding a comedic twist. The conversation covers various fusion methods, the importance of extreme heat, and the potential for clean energy. From experimental breakthroughs to the future of fusion, their collective knowledge shines a light on a promising, yet elusive, energy source.
67 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 42min
What’s the deal with eels? – Lucy Porter, David Righton and Caroline Durif
Join fish ecologist David Righton, migration expert Caroline Durif, and comedian Lucy Porter as they dive into the mysterious world of eels. Discover how these slippery creatures navigate vast distances and elude observation during their spawning rituals in the Sargasso Sea. Learn about their unique anatomy, life cycle, and the challenges of conservation. Plus, hear hilarious anecdotes about eels in cuisine, including the questionable appeal of jellied eels—an exploration of the slimy and the scrumptious!
66 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 42min
What’s the time? - Marcus Brigstocke, Leon Lobo, Louise Devoy
Leon Lobo, head of the UK National Timing Centre, delves into the evolution of timekeeping, from Egyptian sundials to ultrastable atomic clocks. Louise Devoy, a senior curator at the Royal Observatory, shares captivating tales of how Greenwich became the world's timekeeper and the history of its iconic instruments. Comedian Marcus Brigstocke adds humor, discussing the challenges of leap seconds and their impact on daily life. Together, they explore the intricate dance of synchronized time that governs everything from technology to navigation.
64 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 43min
Mind-reading Computers – Phil Wang, Anne Vanhoestenberghe and Luke Bashford
Join neuroscientist Luke Bashford, who specializes in brain-computer interfaces, and biomedical engineer Anne Vanhoestenberghe, an expert in implant technology, as they unravel the fascinating world of BCIs. They discuss the evolution from early medical devices to cutting-edge mind-reading technologies. Topics include the balance between invasive and non-invasive methods, the ethics of cognitive enhancement, and the potential for restoring movement and speech. The conversation ignites curiosity about whether we’re on the verge of decoding thoughts and what that means for humanity.
107 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 42min
Illuminating Light - Jess Wade, Russell Foster and Bridget Christie
Join physicist Jess Wade, renowned for her work on light technologies, and neuroscientist Russell Foster, who studies the intricacies of circadian rhythms, as they shine a light on a captivating array of topics. They delve into how light influences culture and biology, the dual nature of light as particles and waves, and even the evolutionary significance of early life's sensitivity to light. Comedian Bridget Christie adds her comedic flair, musing on the mysteries of light and its connection to our understanding of ghosts!
108 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 42min
Moths v Butterflies - Katy Brand, Jane Hill and Chris Jiggins
Join Professor Chris Jiggins, an expert in butterfly evolution, Professor Jane Hill, who unpacks how climate change affects moths and butterflies, and comedian Katy Brand, known for her witty takes on life. They dive into the fascinating world of Lepidoptera, exploring the distinct traits that separate moths from butterflies. With humor, they discuss metamorphosis, the wonders of colorful wing patterns, and even Katy's butterfly tattoo. The team blends science and comedy while highlighting the critical ecological roles these insects play.
48 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 42min
Technofossils - Sarah Gabbott, Mark Miodownik and Aurie Styla
Mark Miodownik, a Professor of Materials and Society, discusses how everyday items could become future fossils. Sarah Gabbott, a Paleontologist, shares intriguing insights on ancient fossils and the secrets they hold. Comedian Aurie Styla adds humor to the discussion about techno-fossils, speculating how archaeologists might misinterpret discarded technologies like smartphones. They explore the durability of plastics and how future generations might view our current life, questioning what legacies we’ll leave behind.
