February 7, 2025
Some research shows that e-cigarettes can be a useful tool for quitting cigarettes, but that strategy is hotly contested by scientists. Plus, an investigative journalist outlines how fraud and misconduct have stalled the search for effective Alzheimer’s treatments in a new book. And, why snow has that crisp, clean smell.
10:48
Crows, A Bird That’s Not Bird-Brained
An ode to the brainy antics of the corvid family, from funerals to tool use to human facial recognition.
26:36
Could Tweaking The Atmosphere Help Us Fight Climate Change?
A controversial technique for combating climate change has caught the Congress’ eye.
The Women Taking Math To The Next Dimension
Rebecca Goldin, Emily Riehl, and Eugenia Cheng share their favorite puzzles, explain why math is like a dragon, and give tips for young women entering the field.
Beauty Beyond Skin Deep
We used to know very little about animal anatomy. Now, a new imaging technology allows us to see things that were in front of us the whole time.
Just ‘Topia:’ Moving Beyond The Tropes Of Dystopia
Three science fiction and fantasy writers share their thoughts on the risks and rewards of building “other worlds.”
7:39
Along The Kelp Highway
Archeologists agree on an early coastal route for ancient humans crossing from Siberia…and it’s not the land bridge. Plus, dog sacrifices in the Bronze Age.
4:48
Keeping An Eye On Florida’s Panther Population
A program to capture-and-collar panthers in Florida has been in place for over three decades. Now, it may be ending.
24:14
The US Will Be The Only Country Not In The Paris Agreement. Now What?
As the world works together to lower carbon emissions, what role will the United States play in fighting climate change? Plus, how aging satellites threaten polar ice data.
10:49
The Secret Life Of Tiny Bees
Some small bees—the size of a grain of rice—drink the sweat and tears of animals.
17:26
Should Facebook Have A Seat At The Geopolitical Table?
Large tech companies wield the power of a large country—but without the same regulations.
29:57
The Infinitely Surprising Career Of A Mathematician
Three mathematicians talk about the latest topics and their start in math.
How Do Fossils Form? Fossilize Me! Card Game
Explore the diversity of fossil types and test your knowledge with the Fossilize Me! Card Game. Can you successfully put together an organism, type of preservation, and fossil before that organism decays?
6:52
A Newfound Orangutan, Dark Matter Questions, And A Hole In A Pyramid
Researchers have identified and described a third distinct species of orangutan living in the islands of Indonesia.
5:27
When Science Takes The Freelance Route
An expert weighs the pros and cons of working in science in the gig economy.
6:41
A Space Rock Makes An Interstellar Visit
Astronomers detect the first object to travel from a far-off star system into our own based on its orbit and speed.
9:30
Killer Cone Snails…For Your Health?
Inside these gorgeous shells are deadly hunters—and their venom could save your life.
11:58
How The Microbiome Can Affect Cancer Treatments
Researchers found that patients who responded well to immunotherapy had a more diverse mix of gut bacteria.
17:35
Today, Cataloguing The Human Microbiome. Tomorrow, The World’s
What can the microbiome of Komodo dragons and coral reefs tell us about microbial life on Earth?
17:08
Does Math Have A Place In The Courtroom?
Supreme Court justices appear befuddled by math in gerrymandering case.
17:29
Defending Science In A ‘Post-Truth’ Era
Sue Desmond-Hellmann, CEO of the Gates Foundation, says scientists and science journalists can do more to help the public think critically about scientific news.