On Today's Podcast
Why is brain cancer so hard to treat?
A pioneer of cancer neuroscience explains how brain cancer develops, the role of the nervous system, and what might lead to new treatments.
Listen NowJuly 31, 2026
A new book tells the story of Black women cryptologists who deciphered Soviet telegrams intercepted during the early days of the Cold War. Plus, a pioneer of cancer neuroscience explains how brain cancer develops, the role of the nervous system, and what might lead to new treatments. And, extreme heat is hitting India hard. One physician is trying to understand the health impacts, and help Indians prepare for future heat waves.
17:35
“Research By Us And For Us”: How Medical Research Can Better Serve Trans Communities
Although gender-affirming care is safe and effective, there is more to learn about how to best care for trans people over the course of their entire lives.
How Science Came To See Ultraviolet Light In Animals
Ultraviolet perception is incredibly common in animals—just not in humans. Ed Yong dives into the history of how scientists saw the light.
12:24
FDA Approves COVID Vaccines For Kids Under Five
As early as next week, kids six months and older could begin getting the long-awaited COVID shots.
35:01
What Could Happen To IVF In A Post-Roe World
Efforts to restrict abortion could have major repercussions for those seeking common IVF treatments.
29:58
The Wild And Wonderful World Of Mammals
Author and paleontologist Steve Brusatte explains how mammals almost disappeared with the dinosaurs, but today reign supreme.
17:39
A Squid-tastic Night Out
Ira and undersea experts tackle audience questions at a Cephalopod Week celebration at Norwalk’s Maritime Aquarium.
How Mammals Came to Dominate The World
From reptile-like ancestors to humans, the new book The Rise and Reign of the Mammals tackles the diversity of mammals like us.
12:13
Americans’ Knowledge Of Reproductive Health Is Limited
As the nation awaits a momentous Supreme Court decision, a poll looks at opinions of and knowledge about reproductive health issues.
9:51
Some Doctors Want To Change How Race Is Used In Medicine
Race is often conflated with biology in medicine. A more nuanced approach is emerging: using culturally competent care in treatment.
7:32
How A $2 Billion U.S. Plan To Save Salmon In The Northwest Is Failing
Despite billions of federal subsidies, salmon survival is predicted to decline by 90% in the next four decades.
16:42
How A Facebook Group Helps People Identify Mysterious Mushrooms
Over 200 international mycologists and botanists volunteer their time to help identify poisonous plants and mushrooms in a Facebook group.
12:08
Are Invasive Jumping Worms Taking Over?
This destructive earthworm may not harm your garden, but scientists are worried about its impacts on ecosystems.
17:29
Plastic Surgery, Born In The Trenches
A new book explores the surprising roots of facial reconstruction surgery—the battlefields of World War I.
17:33
The Strange, Scrambled Genomes Of Squids And Octopuses
For Cephalopod Week, two researchers explain the newest science about the fancy tricks and ineffable weirdness of these animals.
World War I’s Operation Face Lift
Medical historian and author Lindsey Fitzharris explores the history of facial reconstruction surgery, starting with a ballerina’s rump.
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12:13
Scientists Found The Biggest Known Plant On Earth
Scientists discovered that a 49,000 acre seagrass meadow off the coast of Australia is actually one giant plant.
11:26
Building A Better Battery… Using Plastic?
A startup is trying to launch new battery technology that could help store renewable energy. But don’t expect one in your cell phone.
6:11
Bug Off: Why Mosquitoes Have An Annoyingly Amazing Sense Of Smell
When scientists tried to mess with mosquitoes’ sense of smell, these pesky insects found another way to sniff out their next meal.
12:48
So You Think You Know About Sex
A new book, “Been There, Done That: A Rousing History of Sex,” will make you question what you thought you knew about sex.