Episodes

Epidemiologist Dr. Céline Gounder untangles rapidly changing pandemic updates. Plus, a plan to replace an aging oil pipeline spurs heated debates over safety, amid a worsening drought. And, looking ahead to CRISPR-based therapies for genetic diseases.

A look at how viruses—from SARS-CoV-2 to HIV—persist in the body and how this can provide new clues into understanding immunity. Plus, how athletes are attempting to avoid infection—and coping with extreme heat—in Tokyo. And the benefit of fungi that live in our gut microbiome.

Biden’s Surgeon General talks about the COVID-19 pandemic, and beyond. Plus, whistleblowers allege “atmosphere of fear” at the EPA. And how the humpback whale says hello.

What’s next for new battery technology? Plus, why our sweat is useful and even worth celebrating. And why the red giant star Betelgeuse is dimming.

Laternflies, an invasive and damaging pest, have carved out a foothold on the East Coast—and experts worry it could spread. Plus, can African wild dogs avoid extinction? And how seashells can be an oracle of ocean health.

With the COVID Delta variant on the rise, how worried should you be about it? Plus, updates on masking and vaccine efficacy from a virologist. And whether you’re a seasoned grower or a budding green-thumb, we’ve got some science-based summer gardening advice.

We wrap up #CephalopodWeek with some squiddy fun facts from a Monterey Bay Aquarium scientist. Plus, a much-anticipated government report examines “unexplained aerial phenomena” seen by Navy pilots. And people experiencing mild cognitive decline may benefit from playing music.

Cephalopod Week is back! We kick off the week-long celebration with some trivia on the origins of squiddy words. Plus, with more states legalizing medical marijuana, physicians and patients are both figuring out how to best use cannabis. And we’ve got the best science books for you to read this summer.

Biden’s new assistant secretary of health is the highest-ranking, openly trans federal official ever, and she’s advocating for big changes. Plus, what happens after scientists admit they’re wrong? And a tale of a chonky “living fossil” fish.

Anthony Fauci reflects on the four decades of research since the first report on the AIDS epidemic. Plus, how the biggest technical challenges of long-term space living could be met by genetically engineering humans. And a new study sheds light on the genetic architecture of depression.