The Naked Scientists Podcast

Recent research unveils how ketamine may work as an antidepressant by targeting the lateral habenula, crucial for mood regulation. A remarkable story highlights Shola, a rescue dog suffering from a genetic eye condition, and advances in treatment to enhance her quality of life. The podcast also dives into the astonishing navigation skills of bumblebees, revealing their adeptness at remembering and optimizing routes. Lastly, a discussion on the potential for extraterrestrial life captures listeners' imaginations while pondering humanity's lonely place in the cosmos.

Join Nobel laureate Brian Schmidt, renowned for co-discovering dark energy, as he dives into the universe's accelerating expansion. He discusses the historical breakthroughs made by Hubble and the pivotal role of supernovae in reshaping our understanding of the cosmos. Hear about his transition from researcher to university leader and his unexpected venture into winemaking near Canberra, where he grapples with climate challenges. Finally, discover the whimsical idea of a 'Nobel wine' to celebrate research achievements!

Discover how scientists have uncovered that our brains truly synchronize during conversation! Delve into the concerning spread of bird flu among cows via their milk and its potential implications for public health. Additionally, hear about innovative new techniques in fog harvesting that promise to better water arid areas. This episode offers a mix of groundbreaking research and fascinating insights that highlight the interconnectedness of health and environmental science!

Gerry Gilmore, an influential scientist renowned for his work on gravity and the universe's structure, shares his insights into the cosmos. He discusses the historical evolution of our understanding of the Milky Way, the tantalizing mysteries of dark matter, and the Gaia mission's groundbreaking achievements in mapping the galaxy. Gilmore also explores the formation of elements post-Big Bang and reveals the unexpected findings from the James Webb Space Telescope that challenge previous galaxy formation timelines. His journey invites listeners into the captivating world of cosmic discovery.

A medical professional specializing in skin cancer shares essential tips for summer sun protection, emphasizing early detection and preventive measures. The discussion also uncovers the intriguing placebo effect, revealing how belief influences pain perception. Innovative research on muscle loss in microgravity is highlighted, along with groundbreaking AI advancements in weather forecasting. Additionally, the podcast explores the science behind the pleasant smell of rain and the geographical differences in experiencing this unique aroma.

To mark the start of the Olympics, we're hosting our own science themed opening ceremony, centred on sporting extremes. We'll learn about potentially dangerously high temperatures at this year's Games and how athletes are reckoning with them. Then, we'll find out whether (really) cold therapy is the key to recovery, and what the mindset of a successful athlete should be. Then, it's the turn of a sport nutritionist to provide some tips on how to keep your body in with a chance of crossing the line in first place. Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

In this edition of The Naked Scientists: Self-test kits to help doctors bear down on cervical cancer; the 'jelly' batteries that could be used in wearable tech devices; and why seagulls keep trying to steal your chips, and how to stop them: science has the solution! Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

Today's Titans interview is with the key figure in one of science's modern triumphs. Susan Solomon and her team were the first to theorise and prove what was causing the hole in the ozone layer above the Antarctic, and why it was growing: chlorofluorocarbon pollutants humans were emitting. What followed is a testament to what can be achieved in the face of significant challenges with international collaboration. What lessons does it hold for how we tackle climate change? Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists

UK's science minister Patrick Vallance discusses Covid insights from the tracing app. The correlation between match days and Covid transmission is explored, alongside Hurricane Beryl formation. Climate change impact on hurricanes and AI's effect on creativity are also discussed.

In this edition of Titans of Science, we hear from some of the biggest names in the business. Today, it's the turn of the British Formula One engineer Dan Fallows. He's currently technical director at Aston Martin and I went to meet him at their base in Silverstone to find out what makes a F1 car do what it does... Like this podcast? Please help us by supporting the Naked Scientists