Discovery

Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that makes renders the body’s connective tissues incredibly fragile; this can weaken the heart, leading to potentially fatal aneurysms. What’s more, anyone with the condition has a 50/50 chance of passing it on to their children.Dr Anne Child is a clinical geneticist who’s dedicated her professional life to finding answers and solutions for people affected by Marfan’s.Born in Canada, she met her British future-husband while working in Montreal in a case she describes as "love at first sight" - and in the 1970s she relocated her life to the UK.There, an encounter with a Marfan patient she was unable to help set Anne on a career path for life. She subsequently established the team that discovered the gene responsible for Marfan's, and founded the Marfan Trust to drive further research. Since then, life expectancy for those with the condition has jumped from 32 years old, to over 70.Speaking to Professor Jim Al-Khalili, Anne shares how she and her team achieved this remarkable turnaround.

Many of us have heard of seismology, the study of earthquakes; but what about asteroseismology, focusing on vibrations in stars?Conny Aerts is a professor of Astrophysics at the University of Leuven in Belgium - and a champion of this information-rich field of celestial research. Her work has broken new ground in helping to improve our understanding of stars and their structures.Conny describes herself as always being “something of an outlier” and she had to fight to follow her dream of working in astronomy. But that determination has paid off - today, Conny is involved in numerous interstellar studies collecting data from thousands of stars, and taking asteroseismology to a whole new level.Recorded at the 2024 Cheltenham Science Festival, Prof Jim Al-Khalili talks to the pioneering Belgian astrophysicist about her lifelong passion for stars, supporting the next generation of scientists, and her determination to tread her own path.

When does a crowd of people become unsafe? How well will the football team Aston Villa do next season? When is it cost-effective to replace a kitchen? The answers may seem arbitrary but, to Nira Chamberlain, they lie in mathematics. You can use maths to model virtually anything.

David Willey, curator and historian of the Tank Museum, and Claire Luson, historian, delve into a lesser-known D-Day mission crucial to WWII's outcome. They discuss the intense challenges British commandos faced on Normandy's shores, spotlighting failed operations and the innovative tactics developed. Vivid accounts of soldiers' perilous swims against bomb explosions bring the chaos of that day to life. The conversation intertwines historical insights with modern explorations, emphasizing the importance of remembering the past while honoring the sacrifices made.

Join Professor Giles Yeo, a food and nutrition expert, along with Bridget Benelam from the British Nutrition Foundation, Paralympian Harrison Walsh, and food historian Pen Vogler, as they unravel the protein craze. They discuss the essential role of protein in health and fitness, Harrison's high-protein diet for athletic performance, and the myths surrounding protein marketing. Pen adds a historical twist, revealing how protein has shaped dietary status through the ages. It's a journey through nutrition, culture, and the quirks of modern diets!

Mike Edmunds, an emeritus professor of astrophysics and president of the Royal Astronomical Society, dives into the universe's mysteries. He discusses the cosmic origins of chemical elements and interstellar dust while sharing his passion for scientific theater, including a one-man show on Isaac Newton. Edmunds also reveals insights from his groundbreaking research on the Antikythera mechanism and advocates for better astronomical practices amidst satellite proliferation, highlighting the intersection of ancient technology and modern science.

Hannah Critchlow, an acclaimed neuroscientist, captivates listeners with her insights into the human brain. She shares how her work as a nursing assistant sparked her passion for understanding individual differences in behavior. The discussion dives into the concept of hardwired personality traits and explores collective intelligence as a means to harness our brains' potential. A standout moment occurs when electrodes are attached to Prof Jim Al-Khalili, transforming his brainwaves into sound, showcasing the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and creativity.

Dr. Fiona Rayment, President of the Nuclear Institute, is a chemist and engineer influencing nuclear policy in the UK and beyond. She shares her childhood memories of energy insecurity that sparked her passion for nuclear science. Fiona discusses the evolving perception of nuclear energy as key to carbon neutrality, tackles concerns over nuclear waste, and highlights its potential in cancer treatment and space travel. She also emphasizes the importance of gender diversity and staying connected to the science to keep her passion alive.

Sheila Willis, a forensic scientist and former Director General of Forensic Science Ireland, shares her insights from years of solving crimes. She discusses the complex interplay between science and the legal system, emphasizing the need for human judgment alongside powerful technology like DNA analysis. Sheila recalls a historic case involving green paint flakes and highlights the unique challenges of presenting scientific evidence in court. From navigating adversarial pressures to the emotional journey of successful convictions, she provides a captivating look into the world of forensics.

Professor Charles Godfray, a leading figure in population biology and director of the Oxford Martin School, shares his intriguing perspective on environmental challenges. He discusses the vital role of parasitic wasps in combating issues like malaria and food security for a burgeoning global population. Drawing from his childhood inspirations and transformative educational experiences, he reflects on the intersection of ecological research and innovative solutions. Godfray also explores the impact of policies on wildlife, emphasizing the joy of discovery in taxonomy.