Science Friday

Dr. Ardem Patapoutian, a Nobel Prize–winning neurobiologist from Scripps Research, shares his inspiring journey from Lebanon to groundbreaking research on touch. He reveals the challenges of imposter syndrome even at the pinnacle of success. Ardem discusses the thrill of scientific discovery, the significance of touch in our lives, and the need for curiosity-driven research. He emphasizes the importance of owning one’s story to inspire younger generations and addresses the impact of immigration policies on scientific talent in the U.S.

Dr. Adam Grippin, a radiation oncologist from MD Anderson Cancer Center, reveals groundbreaking research showing that COVID mRNA vaccines enhance cancer immunotherapy effectiveness, leading to increased survival rates in patients. Cardiologist Dr. Eric Topol discusses the mechanisms behind this phenomenon and its implications for future biomedical research. They explore the potential challenges of funding cuts to mRNA studies and the promise of further trials to optimize these treatments, offering hope for more personalized cancer therapies.

Join paleontologists Dr. Steve Brusatte, a dinosaur evolution expert from the University of Edinburgh, and Dr. Lindsay Zanno, head of paleontology at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, as they dive into the debate surrounding dinosaur extinction. They discuss new fossils from New Mexico that reveal surprising diversity before the asteroid strike. Zanno also unveils findings on a small tyrannosaur, suggesting it was a separate species. The conversation highlights how these insights shape our understanding of extinction and biodiversity today.

Dr. Maliha Ashraf, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Cambridge, and Dr. Bryan W. Jones, a retinal neuroscientist at the University of Pittsburgh, explore the intriguing limits of TV resolution. They discuss how our eyes can only resolve a certain number of pixels and introduce a display calculator for optimal setups. Age-related vision changes and their impact on TV choices are also examined. Finally, they compare human vision to that of animals, revealing fascinating insights into how different species perceive the world.

Juanpablo Ramirez-Franco, an environmental reporter, shares insightful field observations on invasive carp and the costly Brandon Road Interbasin Project, aimed at preventing their entry into the Great Lakes. Dr. Cory Suski, a professor of aquatic resources, discusses experiments revealing how Chicago's water chemistry might stress carp, slowing their movement and metabolism. The conversation dives into the financial and ecological debates surrounding carp control, making it clear that finding a solution is as challenging as it is vital.

Join Dr. Luis Zambrano, an ecologist focused on axolotl conservation, and Dr. Alejandro Maeda-Obregón, a molecular ecologist using environmental DNA, as they unveil the urgent plight of wild axolotls in Lake Xochimilco. Discover how their populations plummeted from 1,000 to just 36 per km² in a decade. Learn about innovative eDNA techniques that track these amphibians noninvasively, the creation of aquatic refuges to boost their numbers, and the critical partnership with local farmers for habitat restoration.

Dr. Linda Griffith, a biological engineer and Scientific Director of the MIT Center for Gynopathology Research, dives into the complexities of endometriosis—a condition affecting 1 in 10 individuals with a uterus. She discusses the long diagnostic delays, often due to stigma and the lack of quantifiable tests. Linda also explores innovative research, including tissue engineering to model lesions and emerging treatments like anti-inflammatory drugs. Personal experiences inspired her shift to this vital research area, shedding light on future diagnostic advancements.

In this captivating discussion, science reporter Jes Burns shares insights from Oregon’s wave energy test site, PacWave, revealing the challenges of harnessing wave power. She explains the technical difficulties, such as efficiency and environmental impacts, hindering large-scale adoption. Meanwhile, Dr. Deborah Greaves highlights global advancements and cost issues that keep wave energy from going commercial. Both guests emphasize wave energy's potential to enhance grid resilience and complement other renewables, making it a promising, yet underutilized, resource.

Join experts in a spooky exploration of Halloween-themed creatures! Dr. Elena Tena reveals how greater noctule bats hunt migratory birds with the help of high-tech biologgers. Dr. Paula Cushing introduces camel spiders, highlighting their endurance and unique dietary habits. Dr. Sara Ruane explains the fascinating adaptations of tiger keelback snakes, which are both venomous and poisonous. Lastly, Geo Rutherford takes us on a tour of eerie lakes, sharing chilling tales from Lake Superior and the mysteries of Lake Baikal. Perfect for a frightfully fun listening experience!

Jed Brubaker, an information scientist and head of the Digital Legacy Clinic at the University of Colorado Boulder, dives into the intriguing world of digital afterlives. He discusses the significance of memorial pages and how they can support grieving families. Brubaker explores the ethical dilemmas of creating AI chatbots of deceased loved ones and emphasizes the importance of consent. He shares practical steps for managing one's digital legacy and presents insights into how technology can shape our memories long after we’re gone.