
Nature Podcast
The Nature Podcast brings you the best stories from the world of science each week. We cover everything from astronomy to zoology, highlighting the most exciting research from each issue of the Nature journal. We meet the scientists behind the results and provide in-depth analysis from Nature's journalists and editors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Oct 11, 2023 • 21min
Gene edits move pig organs closer to human transplantation
Engineered pig kidneys transplanted into monkeys show promise for human transplantation, with genetic modifications reducing immune system attacks and infection risks. The podcast also discusses babies' mild cases of COVID-19 due to nasal immune systems and a new 3D printing technique. Additionally, it explores the neuronal basis of how our brains count numbers and the challenges faced by a spacecraft telescope's pointing system.

Oct 10, 2023 • 15min
'This doesn't just fall on women': computer scientists reflect on gender biases in STEM
Computer scientists Shobhana Narasimhan and Sana Odeh discuss gender biases and challenges facing women in STEM fields. They explore the importance of gender diversity in computer science, discrimination in the job market, and the need for cultural change. The podcast also addresses solutions for eliminating barriers and the responsibility of society in addressing gender biases in academia.

Oct 4, 2023 • 34min
Astronomers are worried by a satellite brighter than most stars
Astronomers express concern about bright satellites obstructing observations, including BlueWalker 3. Carrot genetics and self-healing diamond discoveries are discussed. The diet of a 400-million-year-old trilobite revealed. The Nobel Prize winners for mRNA vaccine development and atosecond pulse research are mentioned.

Sep 29, 2023 • 20min
Audio long read: These animals are racing towards extinction. A new home might be their last chance
Researchers are trialling the controversial strategy of assisted migration to save the endangered swamp tortoise. The aim is to test whether the animals can tolerate cooler climates and ensure their species' future. Attitudes towards assisted migration are changing, and similar projects are being conducted to protect animals at risk from climate change. The podcast discusses the concept of assisted migration and its potential benefits for endangered species, including cases of egg-laying reptiles, green sea turtles, mountain pygmy possums, and black-footed albatross chicks. Efforts to protect the swamp tortoise, its challenges, and uncertainties for juvenile tortoises are also explored.

7 snips
Sep 27, 2023 • 31min
This isn't the Nature Podcast — how deepfakes are distorting reality
Learn about the dangers of AI deepfakes and the efforts being made to combat them. Discover ultra-accurate measurement of Earth's day-length and the unique survival tactic of snow flies. Uncover evidence of ancient woodworking and its implications for early hominins. Explore the excitement and precautions surrounding the landing of the Osiris Rex mission capsule. Discuss the future of sample return missions and the importance of protecting archaeological sites.

Sep 20, 2023 • 24min
Why does cancer spread to the spine? Newly discovered stem cells might be the key
Researchers have discovered new stem cells in the spine that may be involved in the selective spread of cancer to this site. The podcast also explores the preference of certain percussion instruments among palm cockatoos and the math behind waiting in crowded places. Additionally, the effectiveness of MDMA in treating PTSD is discussed, as well as the upgraded X-ray laser that will allow researchers to capture ultra-crisp 'molecular movies' of chemical reactions.

Sep 13, 2023 • 34min
A mussel-inspired glue for more sustainable sticking
A sustainable, reversible adhesive inspired by mussels and oysters offers environmental benefits. Scientists explore safe alternatives to BPA in plastics and estimate the brightness of the historic Carrington Flare. Progress towards meeting UN sustainable development goals, focusing on malnutrition, is discussed. Controversy surrounds the origins of stone balls found at ancient sites. Researchers analyze spherical objects and speculate about their use, including ball sports.

Sep 6, 2023 • 14min
Our ancestors lost nearly 99% of their population, 900,000 years ago
900,000 years ago, human ancestors faced extinction with a population crash, impacting genetic diversity and driving the evolution of modern humans. Antarctica's research stations have left high levels of pollution, but the extent of the impact is unknown. Melting sea-ice around Antarctica is causing emperor penguins to abandon breeding colonies, resulting in the deaths of many chicks. AI is being trained to describe smells, with potential applications in perfumes and food products.

6 snips
Aug 30, 2023 • 29min
Physicists finally observe strange isotope Oxygen 28 – raising fundamental questions
Physicists observe the elusive oxygen isotope 28 and question current theories of atomic nuclei. Venus flytraps use molecular heat sensors to protect themselves from wildfires. Researchers develop a ballpoint pen that can write LEDs. An AI beats human champions in drone racing, improving drone efficiency. ISRO's successful moon landing and the challenges of landing on the moon's poles are discussed.

Aug 25, 2023 • 26min
Audio long read: Medicine is plagued by untrustworthy clinical trials. How many studies are faked or flawed?
The podcast discusses the prevalence of flawed or faked clinical trials in medicine and the potential dangers they pose. It explores specific examples of flawed trials in maternal health and the impact of fraudulent studies on clinical practice. The podcast also highlights the challenges of reproducibility and research integrity in medicine, emphasizing the need for improved oversight and checks to ensure trustworthiness in medical research.