June 11, 2021
Biden’s new assistant secretary of health is the highest-ranking, openly trans federal official ever, and she’s advocating for big changes. Plus, what happens after scientists admit they’re wrong? And a tale of a chonky “living fossil” fish.
11:54
Senate Bill Supports NSF Overhaul And Tech Research Funding
Plus, reports on UFOs, the impact of climate change on the military, and an elephant dictionary.
17:00
Why Oxen Were The Original Robots
A roboticist on why we should look at animals, not humans, to understand how artificial intelligence can fit into our lives.
12:14
FDA’s Approval Of Debated Alzheimer’s Treatment Raises Controversy
The FDA approved the first drug for treatment of Alzheimer’s disease in almost 20 years. But the benefits of the costly medication aren’t clear.
22:05
When Scientists Get It Wrong
Science is supposed to be self-correcting, but admitting mistakes is easier said than done.
12:12
‘What If I Didn’t Tell?’
When a researcher discovered a critical error in her study, she had a choice to make.
12:36
Charismatic Creature Corner: Chonky Fish Edition
The coelacanth was thought to go extinct 66 million years ago, making it closer to the human genealogical lineage than modern fish.
17:21
Biden’s New Assistant Secretary Of Health On Protecting Trans Youth
Dr. Rachel Levine talks about the importance of health equity and protecting healthcare for trans youth.
How Robots Can Help Kids Develop Social Skills
A robot ethicist explores exciting new research that suggests that cute robots can help kids overcome social anxiety.
Soil Engineering: The Relationship Between Soil Texture and Function
Not all soil is the same. Explore soil texture and structure in this hands-on investigation, then predict how soil health will be affected by climate change.
Language Evolves: It’s Literally Fine
Irregardless, the dictionary’s got your back.
How Can Humans Survive Longer In Space? Photosynthetic Skin
If scientists could genetically engineer chloroplasts into human skin cells, could it give us the energy needed to live in space long-term?
11:57
NASA Plans Two New Trips To Venus
Plus, the U.S. promises to send COVID-19 vaccines to countries with shortages.
06:41
Where Did Watermelon Come From?
Uncovering the watermelon’s ancestors took an understanding of genetics and Egyptian iconography.
11:43
Research Reveals 178 Genes Are Associated With Depression
A new study identifies the genes that make depression inheritable.
17:33
Can Genetic Engineering Help Humans Live In Space?
Astronaut Scott Kelly talks about the bodily effects of a year in space, and author Christopher Mason explores how to help humans survive.
16:52
How Might Technology Shift Our Morality?
Author Juan Enriquez argues that genomics, neuroscience, and other advancements will change our ethical frameworks for years to come.
28:03
Anthony Fauci Reflects On 40 Years Of HIV/AIDS Research
June 5 marks the 40th anniversary of the first report on HIV and AIDS. Anthony Fauci looks back on four decades of research.
Crown 2021’s Cephalopod Of The Year For #CephalopodWeek
From June 18-25, we’re celebrating the 8th Annual Cephalopod Week by awarding one lucky, many-armed invertebrate the award of a lifetime.
Choose Your Virtual Cephalopod Week Adventure!
Aquariums, trivia, watch parties, oh my! From June 18 to 25, join three special virtual events in celebration of our favorite undersea buddies.
12:08
Big Oil Reckons With Climate Change
From the courtroom to the boardroom, oil companies saw new pressure to act on climate change this week. Plus Moderna’s vaccine tested in youth, and more stories.