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
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.
53 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.
59 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 43min
The Mighty Spud - Sandy Knapp, Glenn Bryan and Susan Calman
Join botanist Sandy Knapp and geneticist Glenn Bryan as they unravel the fascinating world of potatoes. Discover how all supermarket potatoes belong to a single species and the exciting diversity of wild varieties in South America, which has Susan Calman planning her next adventure! They also dive into potato genetics, the quirky history of these tubers, and even spin a musical number using a potato keyboard. Prepare for a playful journey that mixes science with humor, celebrating the mighty spud in all its glory!
87 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 42min
How to Build the Perfect Athlete - Helen Glover, Hugh Dennis, Steve Haake and Emma Ross
In this discussion, Olympic rower Helen Glover shares her inspiring journey of returning to sports after motherhood, emphasizing the unique challenges female athletes face. Professor Steve Haake explores how cutting-edge technology impacts sports performance, while exercise physiologist Emma Ross dives into the physiological differences that affect athletes. Comedian Hugh Dennis adds humor with tales of his cycling adventures, all while the group contemplates what truly makes the 'perfect athlete' amidst laughter and personal anecdotes.
89 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 43min
Should We Settle in Space? - Tim Peake, Kelly Weinersmith and Alan Davies
Join British astronaut Tim Peake, biologist Kelly Weinersmith, and comedian Alan Davies as they explore whether humanity should settle in space. Peake shares insights from his time at the ISS and advocates for space exploration. Weinersmith discusses the hurdles of colonizing Mars and the Moon, while Davies injects humor into the conversation about life beyond Earth. They tackle the scientific and ethical implications, from growing food on Mars to the absurdities of space travel, making for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion.
40 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 43min
201st Birthday Bonanza - Mel Giedroyc, Deborah Meaden and Nish Kumar
Mel Giedroyc, renowned for her role in The Great British Bake Off, explores the engineering wonders behind London's subterranean transport systems. Deborah Meaden, a savvy entrepreneur, delves into the emotional complexities of animal grief, examining whether our pets really experience sadness. Comedian Nish Kumar queries climate scientist Ed Hawkins about the looming climate crisis, seeking hope amid doom. Together, the trio navigates the delightful intersections of science and everyday life, sparking curiosity and laughter.
114 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 42min
Nature's Shapes - Dave Gorman, Sarah Hart and Thomas Woolley
Mathematician Sarah Hart, a fellow at Birkbeck University, joins comedian Dave Gorman and Thomas Woolley to explore nature's geometry. They discuss how evolution crafts elegant forms, like tortoise shells and the leaf distribution of trees. The conversation touches on Alan Turing’s influence on animal patterns, the mystery of the golden ratio, and even Gorman's quirky disdain for oblongs. With humor and insight, they reveal the mathematical wonders embedded in the natural world.
