Kathleen Davis is a producer and fill-in host at Science Friday, which means she spends her weeks researching, writing, editing, and sometimes talking into a microphone. She heads the show’s State of Science project, bringing local science stories to a national audience.
Before joining the Science Friday team in 2020, Kathleen reported on tech and breaking news at WESA, Pittsburgh’s NPR station. One time, her coworkers made her a dinosaur themed birthday cake, complete with a Rice Krispy meteor.
Kathleen is originally from the great state of Michigan, and is always eager to talk about freshwater lakes and Coney Island diners. She can often be found taking long walks to run errands that would be done much faster by other modes of transportation.
26:12
What We’re Learning About Long COVID Symptoms And Their Causes
Experts unpack what we’ve learned about long COVID, what support groups you can join, and how you can help with ongoing research.
11:36
The Tyrannosaurus Rex Is Having An Identity Crisis
A rift has formed between T. rex traditionalists and scientists who think the iconic dino is actually three different species.
17:24
Once Again, Transgender And Nonbinary Kids Are Under Attack In Texas
Governor Greg Abbott instructed state agencies to prosecute families providing essential gender-affirming treatment, putting kids at risk.
7:13
Climate Change Ruins The World Championship Sled Dog Derby
At the World Championship Sled Dog Derby, warm weather played an unwanted star role.
12:09
Pittsburgh’s Bridge Collapse Spotlights America’s Infrastructure Woes
Larger vehicles, increased traffic, and climate change are putting pressure on America’s aging infrastructure. How did things get so dire?
25:37
How To Close Gaps In Healthcare Access
Dr. David Satcher discusses his journey from poverty to surgeon general, and how he thinks healthcare can be more equitable.
28:49
How Grief Rewires The Brain
A neuroscientist explores the science behind heartache.
17:20
Meet The Drag Artists Who Are Making Science More Accessible
Drag performers, like Pattie Gonia and Kyne, are using social media to bring science communication to a wider audience.
12:11
Phasing Out “Problematic” Plastics
Companies pledge to stop making hard-to-recycle materials—like straws, cutlery, and stirrers—as early as 2025.
17:32
A Race To Save Florida’s Manatees
This charismatic mammal had its worst year on record in 2021. Scientists are scrambling to reverse manatees’ bad fortune.