February 21, 2025
The CEO of one of America’s oldest scientific societies discusses the recent cuts to scientific institutions, and how scientists can respond. Plus, flu infections are the highest they’ve been in nearly 30 years, and flu deaths this winter have surpassed COVID deaths. And, a video of a gloriously creepy anglerfish inspired tears and poetry online.
The 18th Century Health Craze Behind The Word “Mesmerize”
It all started when a doctor with some peculiar methods showed up in Paris.
12:09
The Thinking Behind New Double-Masking Recommendations
Why the CDC may update its guidance on masking, plus more science news stories from the week.
17:02
This Biden Appointee Is Bringing Justice To Green Energy
The nation’s first presidential appointee for energy justice talks moving to clean energy, without leaving the most vulnerable behind.
12:17
National Bison Range Returns To Indigenous Management
European settlers took the land that became the National Bison Range from Native Americans. In December, that land was given back.
8:59
A Reproductive Mystery In Honey Bee Decline
Queen honeybees store all the sperm they need for a lifetime. Studying them could help declining hives.
8:17
Mapping Sourdough Microbes From Around The World
Scientists collected 500 sourdough starters from around the world to map their microbes.
16:26
Ancient Cities Provide A New Perspective On Urban Life
In a new book, Annalee Newitz looks to some of the greatest ancient civilizations around the world to discover the rise and fall of urban centers.
17:16
Will Vaccines Work Against New Variants Of The Coronavirus?
Vaccines are being tested against new variants of the coronavirus. Here’s what the latest data are telling us.
Uncovering The Vibrant City Life Of Ancient Cahokia
From towering earthen pyramids to bustling ceremonial centers, this Native American city was once the largest urban center in North America.
Science Diction Returns For Season 3
Starting February 9, we’re back with more words and stories—all about mind control.
Breakthrough Festival: A Celebration Of Women In STEM
From February 15 – 21, join Science Friday and 500 Women Scientists for a celebration amplifying the voices of women scientists.
11:48
A New President, A New Climate Policy
In his first week in office, President Biden took multiple actions to address the climate crisis.
17:19
How Scientists Unravel The Mysteries Of The Placenta
The placenta is the only organ that can be grown temporarily and then discarded—but it’s hard to study while it’s doing its job.
12:07
A Skeletal Record Of Medieval England Society
Scientists are uncovering clues about medieval life from the bones of ordinary people.
23:44
Deploying President Biden’s ‘Wartime’ COVID-19 Plan
President Biden’s national COVID-19 relief effort aims to administer 100 million vaccinations in 100 days.
9:32
Lack Of Enforcement Threatens The Endangered Species Act
Land development is threatening the Florida panther—just one endangered species impacted by money and politics.
17:17
Everything You Want To Know About COVID-19 Vaccines
SciFri listeners called with questions ranging from how antibodies work to who should get jabbed. A microbiologist provides the answers.
12:13
President Biden Makes Immediate Changes To U.S. Science Policy
The new administration made quick work of rolling back key science policy positions of the Trump era.
5:29
Former Michigan Governor, Other Officials Charged for Flint Water Crisis
The charges, which came as a surprise to many residents, come seven years after the health crisis began.
17:26
How Soil Could Save The Planet
A new farming technique could make soils, and their microbes, better at capturing carbon.