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.
17:25
From Farm To Fridge: The Science And History Of Refrigeration
In her book ‘Frostbite,’ Nicola Twilley examines how refrigeration changed the world and spoiled us—and our food.
Stepping Inside The Global Cold Chain
Author Nicola Twilley ventures into the often-overlooked—but rapidly expanding—global network of food refrigeration.
The Tornado Science Of ‘Twisters’ And A Real Life ‘Dune’ Stillsuit
A meteorologist decodes the tornado science in the new ‘Twisters’ sequel, and researchers made a spacesuit inspired by the one from ‘Dune.’
11:49
A Small Meteor Blazes Over New York City
The foot-long meteor passed through the Earth’s atmosphere near the Statue of Liberty. Don’t worry, it was fine.
17:20
FDA Panel Rejects MDMA Therapy For PTSD
The panel raised concerns about the study’s methods and failure to address previous instances of research misconduct.
17:14
How A Shark Scientist Forged Her Own Path
In her book, marine biologist Jasmin Graham writes about uplifting young scientists of color and why she pursues research outside of academia.
11:35
The Tornado Science To Know Before Seeing ‘Twisters’
The follow-up to the 1996 movie “Twister” is a whirlwind of tornado science. A weather expert decodes its lingo—and real-life tornado trends.
5:56
A ‘Dune’-Inspired Space Suit To Turn Astronaut Pee Into Water
Researchers developed a prototype of the system, which could replace the high-absorbency diapers that astronauts wear on space walks.
16:52
What Are The Risks Of Drinking Raw Milk?
As public figures promote raw milk, and sales increase, experts warn about the risks from pathogens like salmonella and avian flu.
12:15
A Noisy Bitcoin Mine Is Causing A Health Crisis In A Texas Town
The mine’s cooling fans are so loud they rattle windows. Residents of Granbury, Texas, are having migraines, panic attacks, and hearing loss.
‘Twisters’ Highlights The Turbulent Language Of Twin Tornadoes
Comparing clusters of tornadoes is a tricky task for researchers and could affect their ability to predict these superstorms.
Finding Community As A Black Woman In Shark Science
In her book “Sharks Don’t Sink,” Jasmin Graham describes what it was like to find other shark scientists like herself on Twitter.
Breaking Down The U.S. Drug Shortage Problem
There are hundreds of ongoing drug shortages in the U.S. Generic drugs, particularly injectables, are most affected.
11:25
Galaxies ‘Dance’ In Stunning New JWST Image
As the James Webb Space Telescope marks two years of operations, NASA unveils a new image of two galaxies interacting.
17:08
How Congestion Pricing Can Impact Human Health
Congestion pricing increases commuting costs in cities, but it can also mean better air quality and a healthier population.
6:01
Why Some Cats Scratch Furniture So Much
New research shows that cats’ tendency to scratch is affected by stress, certain kinds of play, and how active they are at night.
What The Small Intestine Can Tell Us About Gut Health
Most gut microbiome research focuses on the colon. But understanding the small intestine might unlock better treatments for GI disorders.
Why Are There So Many Drug Shortages In The U.S.?
It’s not just Ozempic. There are 323 ongoing drug shortages in the U.S., leaving patients scrambling for necessary medications.
11:33
Helping Queen Conchs Mate In The Florida Keys
Rising temperatures shut down some conchs’ impulse to reproduce. So scientists are ferrying them to colonies in deeper, cooler waters.
A Note From Ira About Science Friday’s New Co-Host Role
SciFri is hiring a co-host to help shape the next chapter of the show.