On Today's Podcast
mRNA Vaccine For Pancreatic Cancer Continues To Show Promise
In the wake of funding cuts to mRNA vaccine research, we revisit a February story about a promising vaccine for pancreatic cancer.
Listen NowAugust 22, 2025
Humans drove wolves nearly to extinction in the American West. Reintroducing them in 1995 was, and still is, controversial. Plus, the FDA and HHS plan to eliminate petroleum-based food dyes as part of the MAHA agenda. What does science say about their effects on health? And, astronomers found a supernova whose lighter outer layers had been stripped away, revealing an inner shell rich in silicon and sulfur.
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.
29:24
Fact Check My Feed: More Kids Can Get COVID-19 Vaccines. Now What?
Pfizer’s vaccine is now approved for kids aged 5 to 11. Plus, which adults need which booster, and preparing for another pandemic holiday season.
5:18
The Science Friday Theme Song That Got Lost In The Mail
23 years ago, Ira dared Steve Allen, the first host of The Tonight Show, to write a Science Friday a theme song. Allen obliged—so why didn’t it make it on the show?
11:11
In First Real-World Experiment, Red Seaweed Cuts Methane In Cows By More Than Half
Researchers fed a working dairy’s cows red algae. It had a stunning impact.
26:05
SciFri Reflects On Three Decades Of Covering Science News
A lot has changed since the first broadcast in 1991. The show’s commitment to science hasn’t.
What Causes Some Aurora To Appear In Discrete Lines?
Why do some auroras appear in discrete lines, while others fill the sky with diffuse light? Explore how electrons surf on Alfvén waves.
How Do You Search For Life In The Universe? Use Clues From Microbes!
How do scientists figure out where life can exist in the universe (places like Venus)? Use the microbes on Earth to piece together clues about the limits of life.
Jargon: We Love To Hate It
Most people despise it. So why do we use it? And is all jargon bad?