

Nature Podcast
Springer Nature Limited
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 9, 2024 • 39min
This AI powered 'tongue' can tell Coke and Pepsi apart
Shaptar Shidas, a researcher behind the AI-powered graphene tongue, discusses this groundbreaking invention that can differentiate between similar beverages like Coke and Pepsi using artificial intelligence. He reveals how AI training overcomes the inconsistencies in graphene sensors for reliable chemical detection. The conversation also touches on the ecological impact of migrating Pacific salmon, highlighting their dual role in transferring nutrients and contaminants, and the importance of understanding their effects on ecosystems.

Oct 2, 2024 • 31min
Strange gamma-ray flickers seen in thunderstorms for the first time
Physicists have made an exciting discovery of new gamma-ray emissions from thunderstorms, challenging previous assumptions about their frequency and complexity. This research could shed light on the origins of lightning. Archaeological insights reveal that Europe's oldest interregional battle involved diverse warriors. Additionally, groundbreaking work on the fruit fly's brain unveils a detailed connectome, enhancing our understanding of neuronal interactions. These topics highlight the intersection of nature, history, and neuroscience.

Sep 27, 2024 • 20min
Audio long read: A day in the life of the world’s fastest supercomputer
Discover the incredible capabilities of the Frontier supercomputer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where nearly 50,000 processors tackle monumental tasks faster than 100,000 laptops. Learn about its role in advancing AI research and the implications of industry biases that may overlook marginalized groups. Explore how this powerhouse promotes democratization of AI through open-source initiatives and the geopolitical tensions that arise as supercomputing races unfold between the U.S. and China.

Sep 25, 2024 • 22min
Children with Down's syndrome are more likely to get leukaemia: stem-cells hint at why
Discover how children with Down's syndrome face a 150-fold increased risk of leukaemia due to genetic factors linked to chromosome 21. Researchers investigate fetal liver stem cells and their role in DNA packaging, shedding light on leukaemia susceptibility. Meanwhile, learn about innovative studies showing that smaller beer servings can curtail alcohol intake, and meet Costa Rican lizards equipped with self-made air supplies for underwater survival. Plus, explore how tiny crustaceans use scent to navigate and the potential of nuclear techniques in asteroid deflection.

Sep 18, 2024 • 34min
Colossal 'jets' shooting from a black hole defy physicists' theories
Astronomers reveal the largest black hole jets ever recorded, measuring a staggering 23 million light years. These colossal jets challenge existing theories about their size, hinting at more discoveries to come. Innovative fabrics designed to protect against mosquito bites and the fascinating role of islands in preserving unique languages are also discussed. Finally, a groundbreaking one-step method for producing metal alloys is presented, promising to reduce environmental impact and improve production efficiency.

9 snips
Sep 11, 2024 • 42min
Ancient DNA debunks Rapa Nui ‘ecological suicide’ theory
Ancient DNA analysis from Rapa Nui reveals that the islanders did not contribute to their own population collapse, challenging the 'ecological suicide' theory. This groundbreaking study connects Rapa Nui's history to Native American populations. In another segment, a newly discovered parasitoid wasp preys on adult fruit flies, hinting at complex host-parasite dynamics. Additionally, innovative imaging techniques using food dye offer exciting advancements in observing live animals, pushing the boundaries of biological research.

Sep 6, 2024 • 14min
The baseless stat that could be harming Indigenous conservation efforts
A widely cited claim that 80% of the world’s biodiversity resides in Indigenous territories lacks empirical evidence and could hinder conservation efforts. Researchers discuss the origins of this misleading statistic and its impact on Indigenous communities. They emphasize the importance of understanding complex Indigenous relationships with biodiversity, advocating for recognition of their ecological knowledge. Community-based monitoring is highlighted as a vital tool in effective conservation, showcasing the need for collaboration between Indigenous groups and scientists.

Sep 4, 2024 • 31min
Long-sought 'nuclear clocks' are one tick closer
Researchers are a step closer to creating a groundbreaking nuclear clock that measures time using nuclear transitions, potentially offering unprecedented accuracy. The discussion also includes the innovative use of engineered T-cells to improve spinal cord recovery in experimental models. Additionally, recent floods in Brazil unveiled remarkable fossils and showcased challenges in paleontology. Lastly, the podcast addresses the transformative role of AI in scientific research, balancing optimism about its potential with concerns over job displacement.

19 snips
Aug 30, 2024 • 18min
Audio long read: So you got a null result. Will anyone publish it?
Unravel the 'file-drawer problem' that keeps null results hidden in scientific research. Dive into the biases favoring positive findings and their impact on drug efficacy perceptions. Explore ongoing efforts to improve publication practices, including registered reports. Discover the changing landscape where top journals are starting to accept null results, emphasizing the need for faster publication to enhance scholarly discourse. This conversation sheds light on the crucial role of transparency in advancing scientific knowledge.

Aug 28, 2024 • 21min
Covert racism in AI chatbots, precise Stone Age engineering, and the science of paper cuts
Discover the alarming covert racism embedded in AI chatbots, as they often make biased judgments based on dialect. Dive into the ancient engineering marvel of the Dolmen of Menga, revealing sophisticated techniques used to position massive stones with millimeter precision. Uncover the peculiar predator-prey dynamics as male fireflies fall prey to orb-weaving spiders. Finally, explore the intriguing science behind paper cuts, including which paper types inflict more pain and innovative solutions like a recyclable paper knife.