

BBC Inside Science
BBC Radio 4
A weekly programme that illuminates the mysteries and challenges the controversies behind the science that's changing our world.
Episodes
Mentioned books

5 snips
Jan 11, 2024 • 28min
Biggest COP in history
COP 28 concluded with discussions on oceans, food security, and transitioning away from fossil fuels. Glada Lahn explains the potential shift from 'brown energy'. Casper Chater explores adapting crops to extreme weather events. Ko Barrett discusses oceans' role in mitigating climate change. Mervina Paueli shares experiences from Tuvalu, an island nation facing climate challenges.

Jan 4, 2024 • 28min
Vagrant Birds
Vagrant birds appearing in new locations and their impact on ecosystems. Boris Johnson's testimony and decision-making during the pandemic. The brain's inability to rewire itself after injury contradicts previous beliefs. Research on neurons and phantom limb pain after amputation. The psychological impact of approaching rehabilitation for brain injury patients.

Dec 28, 2023 • 28min
Finding Tunnels
Scientists explain the science of detecting tunnels and mines from above ground. The phenomenon of Northern Lights and how it can be seen in the UK. Assessment of countries' progress in climate commitments and highlights the UK's stance. Updates on the UK Covid-19 Inquiry including key government ministers giving evidence.

Dec 21, 2023 • 28min
UK Covid-19 Inquiry
Former Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance and Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty testify at the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. NASA releases a toolkit in Earth's orbit. There is hope to curb global warming. Ed Yong's book wins the Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize.

Dec 14, 2023 • 28min
Iceland Volcano
Scientists discuss potential huge volcanic activity in Iceland. Updates on the ongoing COVID-19 public inquiry. Author explores the race to defeat the deadly virus. Importance of public trust in science for vaccine development. Government's handling of the crisis and treatment of scientists.

Dec 7, 2023 • 31min
Loss and damages for vulnerable countries
Professor Saleemul Huq, director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development, advocated for a loss and damages fund for vulnerable countries affected by climate change. The podcast also covers an unusual snail looking for a mate, glucose monitors' impact on the body, and Lev Parikian's book on the evolution of flight in animals.

Nov 30, 2023 • 28min
Metal Mines
Abandoned metal mines in the UK are polluting rivers. A book explores the history of basic inventions. How selective breeding can reduce emissions from cattle. The bizarre case of stolen bull semen. Surprising topics and a preview of the next episode.

16 snips
Nov 23, 2023 • 30min
Forever chemicals
This podcast explores the dangers of forever chemicals in drinking water and the need for stricter regulation. It also delves into the illegal trade of dinosaur bones and the revelation that the Moon is older than previously thought. Additionally, it discusses the biological secrets of animals that age differently and offers insights into longevity in the animal kingdom.

Nov 16, 2023 • 28min
White phosphorus
The podcast discusses the dangers of white phosphorus, including its violation of international law if used in civilian areas. It also explores the use of AI and scanning techniques to decipher ancient papyrus scrolls, the fight for women in science, and the re-establishment of beavers in the UK and their impact on wetlands and farming.

Nov 9, 2023 • 29min
Tumbling down the rabbit hole of assembly theory
Science writer Philip Ball and zoologist Professor Matthew Cobb discuss assembly theory, a framework for understanding the origins and complexity of life. They also explore the recent Osiris Rex mission to collect samples from asteroid Bennu and the importance of animal senses in understanding the world. The Perception Census project aims to document differences in human perception and consciousness.