The Naked Scientists Podcast

In this edition of The Naked Scientists: Scientists get their hands on the oldest ice on Earth, and we've been to see it, but what's it going to reveal? Also, measles is on the up, again; we find out why. And, is humour genetic? We talk to the scientist who has studied hundreds of pairs of twins to find out! Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In this edition of The Naked Scientists, we look at 25 years of the Human Genome Project. What is it? And what has it achieved? Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

David Gozard, a physicist at the University of Western Australia, dives into the fascinating link between fat cells and obesity-related health issues like diabetes. He discusses groundbreaking research on gut microbes that may help detoxify harmful 'forever chemicals.' Plus, Gozard explains why certain days this month will be a millisecond shorter due to Earth's dynamic rotation influenced by the Moon. Get ready for a blend of health, environmental science, and cosmic curiosities!

In this conversation, Beverly Glover, Director of the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, shares her insights on how genetics can enhance gardening. They discuss Mendel's foundational work in genetics and its relevance today. The importance of pollinators is highlighted, particularly how plants can attract them through color and scent. Glover also dives into genetic engineering's role in improving nectar quality for bees and the intricacies of plant-pollinator relationships, ultimately exploring advancements that can boost crop resilience in a changing climate.

In the news, counting the calories: The UK government want shops to help us put 100 fewer calories in our baskets to beat obesity. So will it work? Also, archaeologists uncover the world's oldest fat factory - it turns out that Neanderthals were processing bones for their grease 125,000 years ago, but why? And on Mars the Curiosity rover captures close-up images of spiderweb-like patterns on the planet surface, but what made them? Listeners are also wondering whether green initiatives really do help to save the planet... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

This episode was produced and presented by Dr Marushka Soobben, a scientist from South Africa who's been taking part in an internship here at the Naked Scientists. And this week, a journey into the world of proteins. What are they? why do they matter? And why did predicting their shapes win a recent Nobel prize? Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

John Wilding, a leading expert in obesity and endocrinology at the University of Liverpool, discusses the rise of weight loss jabs like Monjaro. He highlights their potential benefits alongside significant concerns about side effects and cost. The conversation also introduces a revolutionary capsule sponge test that could replace traditional endoscopies for Barrett's oesophagus. Wilding touches on fascinating caterpillar adaptations in nature, showcasing their unique survival strategies and symbiotic relationships within ecosystems.

In this edition of The Naked Scientists, we speak to the Cambridge scientists who have made it their mission to understand climate change in one of the world's most inhospitable regions... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In this edition of The Naked Scientists: HPV vaccination rates are waning. We examine the importance of the jab. Also ahead: why Africa is key to understanding the evolution of early humans. Plus, the reasons alcohol-free booze might actually not be all that good for us... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In the final installment of this season of Titans of Science, Chris Smith speaks with Sharon Peacock, one of the UK's leading voices in infectious disease research. She is best known for her work on whole genome sequencing of pathogens such as MRSA and SARS CoV-2, and studies of antimicrobial resistance... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists