Short Wave

Kirk Sigler, an NPR correspondent, takes listeners on a captivating audio journey to the Great Salt Lake, an ecological treasure hanging by a thread. He discusses the lake’s crucial role for migratory birds and local health, warning that climate change and water diversion could lead to its disappearance within five years. The conversation highlights the dire consequences of toxic dust storms and emphasizes urgent environmental activism. Kirk illustrates the lake’s beauty and complexity, reminding us why preserving this unique ecosystem is essential for our future.

Dr. Martha Gilmore, a planetary geologist at Wesleyan University, reveals groundbreaking findings on Venus, showing that it has active volcanic activity for the first time. She discusses the striking differences between Venus and Earth, exploring how their paths diverged despite sharing origins. Gilmore also touches on upcoming missions to explore Venus’s geology and chemistry, shedding light on its once potentially habitable state. The conversation emphasizes what our neighbor can teach us about climate change and the geological mysteries of our own planet.

Manoush Zomorodi, host of NPR's TED Radio Hour, engages with Tom Oxley, a leading physician and CEO of Synchron, on the intriguing world of brain-computer interfaces. They explore how this groundbreaking technology can allow individuals to control devices with their minds. The discussion dives into the medical benefits for patients with ALS, the ethical implications of merging technology with human cognition, and the transformative potential of BCIs for communication and emotional connectivity.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, an NPR science correspondent, shares her exhilarating experience flying into winter storms as part of the IMPACS research project. She discusses how scientists gather crucial data to improve snowfall predictions and the impact of accurate forecasts on safety. Nell describes the interplay of fear and courage in her mission, highlighting the use of radar technology and specialized aircraft. Listeners are taken on a thrilling journey through snowstorms, understanding the complexities of winter weather and its forecasting.

Beth Shapiro, a leading expert on paleogenomics and co-director at UCSC's Paleogenomics Lab, discusses the captivating yet complex world of de-extinction. She reveals that while cloning a mammoth is unlikely, reviving traits through advanced genetic technologies holds promise. Focusing on her work with the dodo's genome, she explains how this research could aid in conserving current endangered species. Shapiro also highlights the ethical implications and how lessons learned from de-extinction can help protect biodiversity today.

Beth Shapiro, a leading Professor of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at UC Santa Cruz, dives into the fascinating world of ancient DNA research. She discusses groundbreaking discoveries, including working with an 800,000-year-old horse fossil and uncovering the dodo's link to the Nicobar pigeon. Shapiro explains how advanced genetic sequencing is reshaping our understanding of Neanderthal ancestry and mammoth extinction, unraveling ecological shifts and the intricate legacy of ancient species.

Eugenia Cheng, a renowned mathematician and author, dives into the delicious world where baking meets mathematics. Celebrating Pi Day, she shares a clotted cream recipe that illustrates the beauty of process and creativity in both fields. Eugenia argues that cooking demystifies mathematical concepts, inviting listeners to see math as an art form rather than a constraint. She critiques traditional education’s emphasis on testing, advocating for a more engaging approach to learning that inspires curiosity in mathematics.

Jonathan Jackson, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School and executive director of the CARE Research Center, joins to discuss the new Alzheimer's drug lecanemab. He highlights the groundbreaking diversity in clinical trials but raises concerns about the lack of data for underrepresented groups, particularly Black Americans. The conversation delves into the significance of inclusive trial designs and the urgent need to reevaluate standards in drug testing to ensure all populations at risk can benefit from advancements in treatment.

Dive into the fascinating world of marine communication as dolphins and toothed whales showcase their vocal skills. Discover the mysteries of plankton, ancient fossils, and their vital role in the ocean ecosystem. Learn about a groundbreaking treaty aimed at protecting the high seas and promoting biodiversity. This episode combines science and conservation in a lively discussion, highlighting both innovative research and the pressing need for global action to preserve our oceans.

Cassandra Extavour, an evolutionary biologist at Harvard, explores the intriguing use of crickets as model organisms in scientific research. Despite her neutral feelings about crickets, she discusses their potential to advance our understanding of genetics and brain functions. Crickets uniquely retain stem cells in their adult brains, offering insights into neurodegenerative diseases. She emphasizes the importance of diverse model organisms in research and how crickets could reshape our approach to studying human health and biology.