Episodes

We explore how effective the IPCC Report can be for generating climate policies. Plus, a look at promising climate solutions already in development. And what it might mean to heal—rather than conserve—endangered landscapes.

COVID case counts are now so inaccurate that we may be missing a current surge in cases. How did it get to this point, and how can you determine risk? Plus, a new book imagines how a trillion dollars might make the most progress toward fixing the planet’s problems. And what springtime looks like on the planet Neptune.

Dr. Anthony Fauci discusses several trials of HIV vaccines using new mRNA technology. Plus, scientists have filled in the final missing pieces of the human genome. And we answer your burning questions about Mars.

Rain and drought are predicted to create better conditions for mosquitoes to spread the West Nile virus across the U.S. Plus, astronomers logged the 5,000th confirmed planet outside of our solar system. And how losing genes allowed vampire bats to gain bloodsucking superpowers.

Your home can help reduce carbon emissions. Here’s how to consider balancing the burden of individual and systemic action. Plus, a third of GoFundMe campaigns to cover medical costs fail. And how scientists are learning where Mars’ water went.

Scientists know more about long COVID than they used to, but there are still some important unanswered questions. Plus, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine may hasten a global shift to greener energy sources. And, how to make our wastewater systems better.

A physicist and higher education researcher on what’s driving the absence of Black physicists—and what universities can do to change. Plus, how a potato-sized piece of Mars changed planetary science. And celebrating the butts of invertebrates.

Blast off to Mars and explore its history with us for this spring’s SciFri Book Club! Plus, a medical device startup ends support for its bionic eye implants—and blind patients who use them have to figure out what’s next. And why are mice the most frequently used lab animal?

Dr. David Satcher discusses his journey from poverty to surgeon general, and how he thinks healthcare can be made more equitable. Plus, results from the record-setting JET fusion experiment, and how patients with paralysis are able to walk, cycle, or swim using new spinal cord implants.