

Science Weekly
The Guardian
Twice a week, the Guardian brings you the latest science and environment news
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Nov 7, 2023 • 17min
Understanding the science of addiction
This podcast explores the science of addiction, including how drug addiction affects the brain, the concept of addiction as an 'allergy of the body', factors contributing to addiction, and resources for support.

Nov 2, 2023 • 18min
Nuclear fusion, new drugs, better batteries: how AI will transform science
This podcast explores the potential of AI in transforming science and medicine, discussing applications such as analyzing large datasets, controlling plasma containment, and predicting protein structures for drug development. It also explores how AI can personalize clinical trials, aid in early diagnosis, and predict healthcare resource requirements. The importance of developing fair AI for clinicians and patients is highlighted, along with the potential impact of AI on material design, battery technology, and sustainability.

7 snips
Oct 31, 2023 • 16min
What could near-death experiences teach us about life, death and consciousness?
A discussion on near-death experiences and their potential insights into life, death, and consciousness. The podcast explores the lack of scientific research in the concept of death and challenges the current definition of death. It also delves into near-death experiences, discussing the different recollections and transformations that occur, and explores theories about consciousness and its connection to the brain.

Oct 26, 2023 • 22min
Black holes, but backwards: unlocking the mysteries of white holes
Carlo Rovelli, an Italian physicist, discusses his research into white holes and why they are worth exploring. He explains how white holes could explain one of the greatest mysteries of physics. The podcast dives into black holes, their distortions of space and time, and what lies on the other side of a black hole's horizon. It also explores the concept of black holes transforming into white holes and the ongoing debate surrounding their existence.

Oct 24, 2023 • 15min
‘We’ve lost control’: what happens when the west Antarctic ice sheet melts?
Podcast explores the melting of ice in Antarctica and its implications for sea level rise. Focuses on the melting of the West Antarctic ice sheet, projected to melt three times faster this century. Discusses the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for action. Honors the life and work of John Vidal, a pioneering journalist. Mentions a climate journalism award and a job platform.

Oct 19, 2023 • 16min
Could AI help diagnose schizophrenia?
Neuroscientist and psychiatrist Matthew Nour discusses how AI could diagnose schizophrenia by analyzing speech patterns, its potential impact on psychiatry, and the ethical concerns surrounding AI in healthcare.

Oct 17, 2023 • 16min
Scarier than lions: how fear of ‘super predator’ humans is shaping the animal kingdom
Conservation biologist Liana Zanette discusses her research showing that humans are now the super predator, inciting more fear in wild animals than even lions. Topics explored include the ecological consequences of human hunting, the reactions of wildlife to human voices and lion voices, elephants' responses to lions and humans, and the ecological impact of humans on the animal kingdom.

Oct 12, 2023 • 20min
Inside the UK’s first gaming disorder clinic
Learn about the UK's first gaming disorder clinic and their efforts to help those impacted. Explore the definition and personal experiences of gaming disorder. Discover the challenges faced with gaming addiction during the pandemic. Understand the severity of gaming addiction and the role of the gaming industry. Discuss treatment techniques used and the need for a prevalence survey.

Oct 10, 2023 • 19min
What’s really going on with Paris’s bedbug crisis?
The podcast explores the recent bedbug crisis in Paris, discussing the psychological impact on residents, the increase in infestations in schools and private companies, and the global concern surrounding the rise of bedbugs. It also highlights the study on the psychological impact of bedbugs, government response to the crisis, and concerns about funding for the Paris Olympics.

Oct 5, 2023 • 21min
All the news and science from the Nobel Prizes
Guardian science correspondents Linda Geddes, Nicola Davis, and Hannah Devlin discuss the science behind the Nobel Prizes. They cover topics such as mRNA technology, attosecond pulses of light, and the discovery of quantum dots with potential applications in TV screens and medical imaging.