The world, the universe and us
New Scientist
From the evolution of intelligent life, to the mysteries of consciousness; from the threat of the climate crisis to the search for dark matter, The world, the universe and us is your essential weekly dose of science and wonder in an uncertain world. Hosted by journalists Dr Rowan Hooper and Dr Penny Sarchet and joined each week by expert scientists in the field, the show draws on New Scientist’s unparalleled depth of reporting to put the stories that matter into context. Feed your curiosity with the podcast that will restore your sense of optimism and nourish your brain.For more visit newscientist.com/podcasts
Episodes
Mentioned books
24 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 31min
Emergency in Antarctica; How movement changes the brain; Why women live longer than men
In this discussion, science journalist Madeleine Cuff reveals alarming data on the dramatic temperature rises in Antarctica, exploring the implications for the polar vortex and sea ice loss. Meanwhile, science writer Caroline Williams delves into fascinating mobile EEG research, discovering how movement affects our brain's auditory attention. The talk also touches on why women generally outlive men, linking it to sex chromosomes and intriguing studies from birds. It’s a captivating mix of climate science, brain research, and the mysteries of life span.
24 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 34min
Skull rewrites story of human evolution; Autism and Tylenol; discovery of wind coming from black hole
Michael Marshall, a science writer and reporter, dives into the groundbreaking reconstruction of the Yunxian fossil skull, suggesting human evolution may have begun in Asia rather than Africa. He explains how features of this ancient skull differ from Homo erectus and what it means for our understanding of Denisovans. The discussion also addresses recent claims about Tylenol's link to autism, debunking myths with scientific evidence. Finally, they unveil the surprising discovery of winds from Sagittarius A*, transforming perceptions of our galaxy's black hole.
15 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 33min
The evolutionary price we pay for longer lives; the asteroid coming VERY close to Earth; how dinosaurs shaped the ecosystem
In this engaging discussion, guest Alex Wilkins, a science journalist specializing in astronomy, dives into the evolutionary trade-offs we face for longevity, particularly the double-edged sword of inflammation. He explains how our immune system promotes longer lives but can lead to chronic health issues. The conversation shifts to the asteroid Apophis, set to pass close to Earth in 2029, exploring its significance for planetary defense. Lastly, Alex reveals how dinosaurs were ecosystem engineers, reshaping landscapes and rivers long before their extinction.
21 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 30min
Why we can't announce life on Mars (yet); The Romans' impact on the British economy; Link between exercise and your microbiome
In this conversation, Mike Marshall, a science writer discussing Roman history, unveils surprising evidence that the withdrawal of the Romans from Britain wasn't as catastrophic as once thought; instead, it may have sparked a metalworking boom. Meanwhile, Sanjeev Gupta, an extraterrestrial geologist, shares thrilling insights from NASA's latest findings on Mars, suggesting signs of past microbial life. They also explore the fascinating link between weightlifting and gut health, revealing how exercise can boost beneficial bacteria in our microbiome.
25 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 31min
First complete map of brain activity; Queen ant lays eggs of another species; The perils of scrolling while on the toilet
A groundbreaking study reveals the first complete map of mouse brain activity, shedding light on how decision-making is distributed across brain regions. In a bizarre twist, queen ants are laying eggs that produce male offspring of a different species, showcasing unusual reproductive strategies. Plus, new research warns that scrolling on your phone while on the toilet could increase your risk of hemorrhoids by 50%. Embrace these fascinating insights into brain science, ant evolution, and modern health habits!
10 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 26min
Scientists discovered a 100,000-year-old organism; Breakthrough brain implant uses AI to treat pain; How climate change leads to revolutions
Alexandra Thompson, a scientist specializing in neurotechnology, discusses an innovative brain implant that uses AI to treat chronic pain. This breakthrough offers targeted relief and has surprising benefits, including improved overall well-being. The conversation also touches on the intriguing discovery of a 100,000-year-old organism found in Siberian permafrost, prompting a reevaluation of life’s resilience. Lastly, they dive into how climate change has historically triggered revolutions, drawing parallels to current social unrest as environmental challenges escalate.
10 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 21min
Could we end winter illness?; Cold fusion’s comeback; The delicious microbiome of chocolate
Michael Le Page, an expert in immunity and viral infections, discusses groundbreaking mRNA-based treatments for boosting our defenses against seasonal illnesses. He explores how a potential inhaler could provide immune protection against viruses like COVID-19. The conversation also revives the controversial cold fusion concept, as researchers explore room-temperature nuclear fusion for future tech. Lastly, dive into the fascinating world of chocolate, where microbes enhance flavors, paving the way for delicious new varieties through fermentation.
28 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 44min
Climate special: How to fix the climate crisis with Tim Lenton and Kate Marvel
In this engaging discussion, climate scientists Kate Marvel and Tim Lenton share their deep commitment to tackling climate change. Marvel explores the complex emotions such as anger and hope in her book, 'Human Nature', while Lenton discusses the concept of 'Positive Tipping Points' and how small actions can drive significant change. They highlight the power of positive emotions in motivating collective action and the critical role of grassroots activism. Both emphasize that, despite the daunting challenges, there is still hope for a sustainable future.
10 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 34min
80 years since Hiroshima: Forgotten victims of the atomic bomb
Jeremy Hsu, a reporter specializing in the legacy of the Manhattan Project, delves into the profound global health consequences stemming from the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He highlights the ongoing risks posed by climate change to nuclear waste and the often-overlooked stories of uranium miners and Korean survivors. The discussion also celebrates the resilience of survivor trees, symbols of hope that continue to grow, demonstrating nature's resilience amidst human tragedy. It's a powerful reflection on history's long shadow.
33 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 28min
Ozempic and Wegovy slow down biological ageing; creation of synthetic bacterium; geology of the Russian earthquake
Michael Le Page, a reporter for New Scientist, joins to discuss groundbreaking topics. Weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy show promise in reversing biological aging—participants in trials experienced a surprising drop in their biological age. Le Page also reveals the creation of a synthetic bacterium with 101,000 genomic alterations, potentially revolutionizing genetic engineering. Finally, he provides insights into the recent rare earthquake off Russia's coast, its geological implications, and how effective tsunami warnings played a crucial role.
