Kathleen Davis is a producer and fill-in host at Science Friday, which means she spends her weeks researching, writing, editing, and sometimes talking into a microphone. She heads the show’s State of Science project, bringing local science stories to a national audience.
Before joining the Science Friday team in 2020, Kathleen reported on tech and breaking news at WESA, Pittsburgh’s NPR station. One time, her coworkers made her a dinosaur themed birthday cake, complete with a Rice Krispy meteor.
Kathleen is originally from the great state of Michigan, and is always eager to talk about freshwater lakes and Coney Island diners. She can often be found taking long walks to run errands that would be done much faster by other modes of transportation.
25:15
Exploring A New Theory About Dark Energy’s Origins
Astrophysicists are divided over a new theory suggesting dark energy comes from supermassive black holes.
17:27
The Lasting Allure Of Shackleton’s ‘Endurance’
The maritime archeologist who found the storied wreck discusses the mission and his new book.
16:28
It’s Spacetime And Science Season At The Oscars
From multiverses to volcanoes, this year’s Academy Award nominees include many pictures where science drives the plot.
9:08
A Long History Shadows Fight Over California’s Shasta Dam
The Shasta Dam helped turn the state into an agricultural cornucopia—but it destroyed the home of the Winnemem Wintu.
5:32
The Supernatural Side Of Astronomical Events
An astrophysicist explains the science behind some of history’s most notorious astronomical omens.
7:53
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Improve Memory, Study Finds
Mice fed with the mushroom had better hippocampal memory—a result that may guide new treatments for dementia.
9:24
Ohio Residents Want Answers About Risks Of Train Derailment
At a recent community meeting, East Palestine residents raised concerns were raised about air and water quality.
11:32
How Scientists Predict Where Earthquakes Will Strike Next
Plus, asthma ER visits go down when electric vehicles are on the road.
8:41
Midwest Aims To Add Large Indoor Animal Farms, Despite Concerns
States like Missouri and Nebraska are paving the way to welcome large livestock operations, but rural residents worry about the environmental risk of manure runoff.
12:10
What’s Behind The Strange Slowing Of The Earth’s Core?
The Earth’s inner core may be slowing its rate of rotation—possibly reversing direction relative to the rest of the planet.