May 14, 2021
Can machine learning provide better diagnoses—and be used as a tool for justice in healthcare? Plus, more on the CDC announcement that fully vaccinated people can unmask often. And, how Elon Musk’s Neuralink fits into neurotechnology research.
26:02
Fauci Says Majority Of U.S. Adults Likely To Be Vaccinated By Late Summer
NIAID Director Anthony Fauci sheds light on vaccines, variants, and a return to normalcy.
Why The Word “Lunacy” Comes From The Moon
How an ancient belief in the mind-altering power of the moon gave us a word.
12:07
Some People Had COVID-19 For So Long That It Mutated Inside Them
Small numbers of patients seem to be incubators for coronavirus mutation. What does this mean for our efforts to fight the virus?
16:58
Two Masks Are Better Than One
As coronavirus variants spread, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are now recommending wearing two masks at once.
16:37
Next Week, A Return To Martian Soil
Scientists hope to use the rover on the red planet’s surface to explore the geology and chemistry of what was once a river delta.
11:59
Seeing The World Through Salmon Eyes
Dissecting eyes is helping measure what fish eat—and the value of different habitats.
5:51
Meet The Man Behind The Word ‘Mesmerize’
Season three of Science Diction begins with the story of a doctor, his peculiar methods, and the power of the mind.
28:13
Two Decades Beyond The First Full Map Of Human DNA
It took 13 years for an international group of scientists to sequence the human genome. Today, genetic research faces new hurdles.
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.