BBC Inside Science

Palaeontologist Victoria Gill explores the 200-year history of dinosaur science, starting with the discovery of Megalosaurus by geologist William Buckland. She visits the Oxford University Museum of Natural History to see the original fossils, discusses the role of illustrator Mary Morland in early dinosaur science, and joins experts at the University of Edinburgh as they extract a potential new dinosaur species from Jurassic rock. The podcast delves into the evolution secrets of Megalosaurus, the unsung heroes of dinosaur discoveries, and the ongoing mysteries of paleontology.

Microbiologist Prof Jacques Ravel and Prof Tim Spector discuss concerns in microbiome testing industry. Daniel Kahneman's legacy in psychology and lab monkey price fluctuations are explored. Neural organoids and ethical considerations are examined in scientific research.

Chris Lintott, a Professor and presenter, discusses his book on serendipitous discoveries in astronomy. Topics include mining Helium-3 on the moon, mysteries of Saturn's moon Titan, and the potential of twin stars. The podcast also covers lunar mining prospects, radio signals, and stargazing adventures with a canine companion.

Dr. Christopher Berry discusses the world's oldest forest fossils, revealing evolutionary secrets. Dr. Chris Thorogood talks about the quest to save Rafflesia plants. The podcast also covers gardening challenges, embracing slugs and snails, and the debate on bottled water vs. tap water. Plus, insights on microorganism survival in chlorinated water and fluoride in UK tap water.

Dr Stewart Husband from Sheffield University discusses water quality and microplastics, addressing water sterilization, filters, and chlorine smell. Bumblebees show social learning abilities in solving puzzles, shedding light on social insects. Geneticist Dr Bo Xia identifies the mutation that led humans to lose their tails, sparking a discussion on the benefits of being tail-less and the evolutionary implications.

Controversial topic of solar geoengineering discussed, including dimming the sun. Ban on donkey skin trade celebrated by animal welfare charities. Dr Katalin Karikó's memoir on mRNA research for COVID vaccines highlighted.

Meaty rice and synthetic meat, the advancements and doubts in lab-grown meat production. Intriguingly pregnant stingray raises questions. Unusual asteroid entering Earth’s atmosphere sparks curiosity. Personal encounters with nature: adopting goats, swimming with octopus, and more.

A study suggests the Gulf Stream could collapse, impacting global climate stability. Polar bears in Hudson Bay facing challenges with longer ice-free seasons. Updates on CERN's plans for a new particle accelerator. Concerns about the future of French cheeses due to lack of fungus diversity.

Machine learning deciphers ancient Roman scrolls, NASA's PACE satellite monitoring Earth, bird flu impacting penguin and seal populations, International Day of Women in Science celebrated with profile of Dr. Jess Wade

Neuralink's brain chips, enhancing rugby safety with smart technology, decoding chicken emotions, and improving chicken welfare are some fascinating topics discussed in this episode