November 22, 2024
On the 50th anniversary of Lucy’s discovery, paleoanthropologists reflect on what she taught us about ourselves. Plus, divers have recovered seeds of a long-lost rye variety from a 146-year-old shipwreck in Lake Huron. And, a potato researcher explains potato varieties, potato nutrition, and some tubular tuber facts.
16:37
The Big Bang Theory Of Cancer
Genetic sequencing is helping scientists see how cancer begins.
7:59
Blunting The Force Of Disease Is Complicated
The real-world efficacy of a vaccine may depend on factors far beyond the properties of the vaccine itself.
4:08
The Chemistry Of The Perfect Cookie
Manipulating ingredients in a cookie can tip the balance between crispy and chewy.
17:13
Thanksgiving Calls For A Dash Of Science
America’s Test Kitchen authors explain the surprising science behind 50 popular ingredients.
16:58
America Has A Food Disparity Problem
It’s not just that poorer neighborhoods have fewer grocery stores. Making healthy food takes emotional and energy resources.
17:01
Happy (Holiday) Testing Season!
With so many test options on the market, what tests are best—and when should you use them this holiday season?
How Racism Shapes Our Perception Of Healthy Food
In her new book, Priya Fielding-Singh writes about how race, culture, and media complicate what we choose to eat.
How Climate Change Is Giving Maine’s Wild Blueberries The Blues
Climate change is threatening Maine’s native blueberries. These researchers are looking to provide solutions—and help farmers in the process.
11:54
Could Psychedelics Help Treat Depression?
Psilocybin, the psychedelic component of magic mushrooms, may be effective for some patients for whom other antidepressants haven’t worked.
16:44
”Dopesick” Takes On The Opioid Crisis
The writer of the new Hulu show joins Ira to discuss the ongoing legal saga of elusive accountability for Oxycontin’s misuse.
16:56
Squirrel-Nut Economics And Other Agility Tricks
Researchers are learning about memory, learning, and economics from our bushy-tailed neighbors.
18:00
As Wildfire Intensity Rises, So Does The Human Toll Of Blazes
Wildfire season in the West is now year-long, thanks to climate change. Listen to residents and rescuers as they grapple with the new normal.
17:01
What Will We Reap Without Topsoil?
Soil erosion continues at record pace around the world. Soil scientist Jo Handelman explains the good news: The solutions are simple and well-understood.
17:26
Activists And Vulnerable Nations At COP26 Seek More Than Promises
Action on climate change is slower than many activists would like. And why payment for “loss and damage” is crucial for vulnerable nations.
More Erosion Is Happening Globally. Here’s What It Means For Farms.
Jo Handelsman, Obama’s former science advisor, explains why more farms are experiencing erosion, and how it reduces crop yields.
How Puffins On The Gulf Of Maine Act As ‘Sentinels Of Climate Change’
Learn how conservationists live on an isolated island to study Maine’s puffin population, and how the birds are dealing with warming seas.
The Voices That Shaped 30 Years Of Science Friday
For three decades, Science Friday has connected scientists with the public. Listen to the voices that have shaped our show.
Donate To Science Friday For Our 30th Anniversary!
Science Friday is back in the studio! Celebrate our return to live broadcast today with a donation.
11:57
Behind The FDA’s Decision To Vaccinate Kids Under 12
No severe adverse effects were found in the study vaccinating younger kids against COVID-19 with Pfizer’s shot, according to the FDA.
8:06
What’s Next For Kansas After 20 Years Of Wind Power?
After two decades, wind farms in Kansas take stock of how the state has changed—and what challenges lie ahead.