The Future of Everything

Oussama Khatib, a renowned professor at Stanford University and a leader in underwater robotics, shares his groundbreaking work on OceanOneK, a humanoid robot designed for deep-sea exploration. He discusses the challenges of creating robots that can operate at extreme depths and how haptic feedback technology enhances remote control. Khatib also touches on the emotional aspects of using anthropomorphic robots during underwater research and their pioneering role in rescue operations, revolutionizing how we explore and interact with the ocean.

James Landay, a Stanford professor and co-director at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI, discusses innovative applications of AI in education and fitness. He highlights how AI functions as a personalized coaching tool, improving learning for young students through his Smart Primer and Acorn apps. Landay also introduces GPT Coach, a fitness planner that integrates health data for tailored advice. The focus is on creating human-centered technology that benefits society and enhances individual experiences.

Noah Diffenbaugh, Professor of Earth System Science at Stanford University, shares his expertise on the immediate effects of climate change, challenging the notion that it's merely theoretical. He discusses the urgent need for better adaptation strategies as extreme weather events escalate. Delving into the role of AI in climate science, he highlights how technology can improve predictions and drive solutions. With a call for balanced investment in both adaptation and decarbonization, Diffenbaugh emphasizes that tangible solutions are still within reach.

Aditi Sheshadri, a Professor of Earth Systems Science at Stanford University, dives into the fascinating world of climate projection. She distinguishes between climate models and weather forecasts, explaining how projections look a century ahead while forecasts focus on the near future. Discover the 'window of chaos' phenomenon, where small changes lead to significant climate variations. Aditi also discusses innovative data collection methods, including low-cost balloons and AI, reshaping our understanding of climate trends and informing critical policymaking.

Lawrence Wein, a professor of management science at Stanford, delves into the fascinating realm of forensic genetic genealogy. He discusses how mathematical modeling is revolutionizing the resolution of cold cases, highlighting its use in notorious cases like the Golden State Killer. The conversation touches on the role of third-party databases and the ethical dilemmas surrounding DNA privacy. Wein’s insights reveal both the haunting and hopeful aspects of using technology to bring justice to unsolved crimes.

In this conversation with Marco Pavone, a Stanford professor specializing in autonomous systems, listeners discover the remarkable strides in self-driving technology over recent years. Pavone discusses the evolving perception of autonomous vehicles, emphasizing public safety and understanding. He also delves into the intricate challenges of managing autonomous systems in space, highlighting the importance of satellite coordination. The conversation reveals how AI is revolutionizing both terrestrial and extraterrestrial applications.

Matthias Kling, a Stanford physicist and expert in ultrafast pulses of light, discusses groundbreaking advancements in ultrafast electronics. He explains how attosecond light pulses allow us to capture the movement of electrons, revolutionizing materials science and quantum computing. Kling also highlights the synergy between AI and quantum research, proposing that these technologies can enhance data analysis and operational efficiency. Furthermore, he delves into the transformative potential of X-ray free electron lasers in biological research and medical diagnostics.

James Fishkin, a Professor of Communication at Stanford, dives into the transformative potential of deliberative democracy. He discusses how this innovative polling model fosters informed discussions among diverse groups to reduce misinformation and political polarization. The episode explores successful examples like Chile's public engagement and the role of automated moderation in enhancing group dynamics. Fishkin emphasizes the importance of structured conversations in bridging political divides and enhancing civic engagement in today's charged atmosphere.

Grace Gao, a Stanford aeronautics professor and lunar navigation expert, brings her insights into the evolution of GPS technology. She discusses the shift from Earth-centric navigation to a GPS-like system for the Moon, which leverages Earth-based satellites and smaller lunar orbiters. This innovative framework could pave the way for autonomous vehicles on the lunar surface and enhance future exploration. Gao also highlights the complexities and challenges of lunar navigation, indicating an exciting new frontier for technology.

Sports medicine physician Emily Kraus knows a lot about the health challenges of female athletes. Women face far more ACL tears and bone stress injuries than men, for instance, and excessive training or poor nutrition can also delay puberty and affect menstruation. These differences are vastly understudied, she says. To close the gap, Kraus initiated the “Female Athlete Voice Project” that asks female Olympic and Paralympic athletes about their health experiences. We need to tailor approaches specific to female athletes, Kraus tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’sThe Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Emily KrausEmily’s Survey: Centering The Female Athlete Voice in a Sports Science Research AgendaStanford FASTR ProgramWu Tsai Human Performance AllianceConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces Emily Kraus, a professor of orthopedics at Stanford University and an expert on the issues of women's health.(00:02:19) Health Challenges for Female AthletesPrevalent injuries and health issues unique to female athletes.(00:03:57) Hormonal Health and PubertyThe impact of hormonal health and menstrual cycles on young athletes’ performance.(00:06:57) Body Composition and Mental HealthThe challenges and psychological impact puberty has on young athletes.(00:08:53) Female Athletes in AdulthoodThe lack of research and resources available for female athletes during major life transitions.(00:12:48) Nutrition, Fueling, and Recovery ScienceHow science has evolved in understanding nutrition, recovery, and strategic rest.(00:15:54) Gender Differences in Fueling and RecoveringThe differences between male and female athletes in nutrition and recovery.(00:19:19) Survey of Olympic AthletesInsights from female Olympians and Paralympians on the key gaps in sports science research.(00:21:40) The WUSAI Human Performance AllianceThe WUSAI Human Performance Alliance’s focus on uncovering the principles of human performance.(00:25:35) The Female Athlete SurveyThe unexpected findings from the survey, highlighting the sexism and inequity in sports.(00:27:26) Spreading Knowledge to Athletes and CliniciansHow Emily’s research is being received by the broader athletic and medical communities.(00:30:00) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook