Shows
CurioscityTumor Suppressor Genes (w/ Pat Faughnan!)In 2020, approximately 1.8 million people will be diagnosed with cancer in the United States alone. Last time, we discussed the basic foundations of cancer. Today, we talk about gene products responsible for reducing the prevalence of cancer and the consequences of missing those gene products. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2021-02-2540 min
CurioscitySpeciation (w/ Rachel Kruger!)What’s in a name? Would that which we call a rose by any other name smell as sweet? Maybe. But what we call groups of organisms is about more than just a catchy title; studying speciation gives us greater insight into how evolution and biodiversity exist in our world. Let's learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2021-02-1835 min
CurioscityLizards (w/ Aaron Griffing!)After a couple of weeks of virology and immunology, it’s time to step back into the world of organismal biology. What is a lizard? What is a squamate? What is some of their evolutionary history? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2021-02-1144 min
CurioscitySARS-CoV-2 Vaccines (w/ Brianne Barker!)Last week we discussed vaccines at a 50,000 foot perspective, but today we focus on vaccines for one pathogen: SARS-CoV-2. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2021-02-0441 min
CurioscityVaccines Primer (w/ Brianne Barker!)Oh boy, another nail biter! Today, we have to discuss the topic of vaccines. Are vaccines effective? If so, at what? Are they safe? Of course, to all of those questions, but still. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2021-01-2849 min
CurioscityRedwoods (w/ Michael Glore and Lathrop Leonard!)A truly tall episode. Today, we’ll discuss the majesty of the redwood tree and how they contribute to their local ecosystems. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-12-101h 02
CurioscitySalmonella (w/ Edward Miao!)There’s more to Salmonella than just Salmonellosis. What is salmonella? Why is it often related to foodborne illness? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-12-031h 04
CurioscityInnovator Inc(ubator) II (w/ Rachel Kruger!)Many scientists have adapted Hollywood’s traditional “elevator pitch”: a brief, persuasive spiel that you use to spark interest in you, your organization, or your product. Today, we’ll take that elevator pitch to its roots to compete for who can propose a ‘better’ science television show for a non-scientist audience. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-11-2638 min
CurioscityAtomic Orbitals (w/ Adele Musicant!)A common misconception is that electrons orbit the nucleus of an atom, like a planet around the sun. Why is this wrong? What are atomic orbitals? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-11-1936 min
CurioscityAcademic Journals (w/ Stanley Maloy!)Scientific progress is fueled by scientific publication. What is a scientific journal? Why do scientists rely on them? Who is responsible for vetting that work? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-11-1254 min
CurioscityLocal Government Public Health (w/ Pam Hemminger!)The show has previously spoken with elected officials, but never during a time of a public health crisis. Today, we discuss Chapel Hill’s response to COVID19. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-11-0536 min
CurioscityGovernmental Funding for Science in the US (w/ Brian Redder!)Scientific progress costs cold, hard cash. For US governmental agencies, many of which not-for-profit, this money comes from the taxpayer. How does this process work? Is one party more likely to support scientific progress? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. Also, go vote. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-10-2937 min
CurioscityHousehold Predators (w/ Kyla Garten!)You don’t have to be the big cat to be the top dog. Today, we’ll discuss how our feline friends impact the world and natural world around us. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-10-2246 min
CurioscityNon-Mendelian Genetics (w/ Nate Diehl!)We’ve discussed the concept of the genome and the individual genes that make it up, but this show hasn’t yet delved into how that blueprint expresses you. Today, we discuss exceptions to what Gregor Mendel discovered. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-10-1544 min
CurioscityMendelian Genetics (w/ Spencer Nystrom!)We’ve discussed the concept of the genome and the individual genes that make it up, but this show hasn’t yet delved into how that blueprint expresses you. Today, we discuss genetics and the early scientist Gregor Mendel. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-10-0847 min
CurioscityScience in Movies IV (w/ Allison Williams and TJ Russell!)It is common to be exposed to topics involving science in school, but this rarely is made as exciting as watching a sci-fi film. What creative liberties do filmmakers take to make their masterpiece, and what do they get right? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-10-011h 06
CurioscityArthropod Vectors (w/ Helen Lazear!)Ticks and mosquitos, everyone’s favorite arthropods. Why do these organisms tend to have a bad rap to humanity? Why are they potential disease-carrying vectors? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-09-2444 min
CurioscityBook Club I (w/ Molly Rathbun!) Yet another long promised episode! Curioscity’s inaugural book club starts with an important piece of literature: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, by Rebecca Skloot. Who was Henrietta Lacks, and how does she outweigh hundreds of millions of people today in mass? How did she contribute to the discussion of body autonomy and medical rights? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-09-171h 24
CurioscityComputer Guts (w/ Archer Harmony!)Just what the heck makes my computer do computey stuff? Is there anything inside of the box responsible for loading my Friendster and Myspace pages? Does this episode justify having a laptop on the season 2 artwork? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-09-1044 min
CurioscityThe Kidneys (w/ Zachary Billman!)The kidneys: indispensable for life as animals know it. What are organs? Why do we need them? What are kidneys? How are they different than kidney beans? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-09-0332 min
CurioscityThe Supposed "Biogenetic Law" (w/ Kshitij Sharma!)Today is a discussion of biological history and a famous, controversial naturalist. Just what is biogenetic law? Does ontogeny recapitulate phylogeny? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-08-2737 min
CurioscityFAQ I (w/ Rachel Kruger!)This podcast has been running for nearly two years, and over its tenure we’ve acquired some questions about the program and the participants. Today, we take some time to discuss frequently asked questions about Curioscity. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-08-2036 min
CurioscityHorseshoe Crabs (w/ Adele Musicant!)You may have been walking upon a beach and noticed a horseshoe crab. Their appearance can be severe, but they provide important contributions to their ecosystems. Today, we will discuss these arthropods and some of their unique characteristics. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-08-1345 min
CurioscityMitosis and Meiosis (w/ Carolyn Turcotte!)A long promised episode! Somehow, cells must become more cells. What are the processes required for reproduction? How are mitosis and meiosis different? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-08-0639 min
CurioscityRadioactivity (w/ Roger Sit!)Radiation brings along images of post-apocalyptic landscapes and mutant ghouls, but there are also aspects of radioactivity that directly contribute to scientific research. Today, we’ll discuss radioactivity. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-07-3041 min
CurioscityChikungunya and Togaviruses (w/ Jenny Loome!)RNA viruses can appear in global pandemics suddenly and without warning (as we know from a recent, rude example). Today, we discuss the viral family Togaviridae and Alphavirus genus members like chikungunya. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-07-2338 min
CurioscityMajor Spotlight: Pseudo Major (w/ Noah Jager!)How diverse are degrees from University? What are some of the most striking parts of those fields of study? Today, we discuss a biological science degree and how broad (or useless) it can be. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-07-1645 min
CurioscityMajor Spotlight: Organismal Biology (w/ Kyla Garten!)How diverse are degrees from University? What are some of the most striking parts of those fields of study? Today, we discuss a biological science degree and how broad (or specific) it can be. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-07-0939 min
CurioscityCancer Primer (w/ Pat Faughnan!)In 2020, approximately 1.8 million people will be diagnosed with cancer in the United States alone. The disease is so infamous that some scientists say that merely uttering its name leads to a better chance of grant funding, and so challenging to treat that it has become commonplace to embolden new generations of scientists by saying they will “cure cancer”. Today, we will discuss some of the introductory themes of cancer. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-07-0240 min
CurioscityMajor Spotlight: Computer Science (w/ Archer Harmony!)How diverse are degrees from University? What are some of the most striking parts of those fields of study? Today, we discuss a computer science degree and how broad (or specific) it can be. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-06-2537 min
CurioscityMajor Spotlight: Material Science (w/ Gavin Hennessy!)How diverse are degrees from University? What are some of the most striking parts of those fields of study? Today, we discuss a material science degree and how broad (or specific) it can be. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-06-1841 min
CurioscityCoronavirus Myths (w/ Brianne Barker!)In times of significance, it seems like everyone is a certified virologist… even those who purport factually incorrect information. Today, we’ll discuss some common myths of COVID-19 and scientific literacy. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-06-111h 02
CurioscityBlack Lives MatterI hope everyone stays safe, uses their time to educate others or themselves, and can overcome apathy. This is a point in time that will soon be referred as “history”. I urge everyone to be on the right side of it.2020-06-0406 min
CurioscityCoffee... and Birds! (w/ Fabiola Rodriguez!)This show has talked about biodiversity, but we haven’t been the best at pointing the magnifying glass at ourselves. How do growth of non-essential crops like coffee impact biodiversity across the globe? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-05-2846 min
CurioscityGenome Size (w/ Mike Itgen!)Everyone listening has a unique combination of nucleic acids that make up their genome: a blueprint of you. We humans have over 3 billion nucleotides of DNA, but how does this vary for other organisms? Are there benefits or consequences to these differences? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-05-2138 min
CurioscityCapsaicin (w/ Aaron Griffing!)Let’s sink our teeth into some pepper lore. It’s gonna be a spicy episode, we’re gonna warm up and listen to Under the Bridge (despite being a little chili), we’re gonna talk about whether or not we believe in ghost peppers, we’re gonna feel hot hot hot. Capsaicin. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-05-1440 min
CurioscityNitrogen Fixation (w/ Rachel Kruger!)Just what is this seventh element on the periodic table? Why is nitrogen so important to life? Why do plants require a long-term relationship with microorganisms to enjoy nitrogen? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-05-0741 min
CurioscityGene Editing (w/ Josh Yoder!)There are many different ways to treat disease, but this show has not yet discussed gene therapy. What is a gene? What is gene therapy? What kind of diseases could be impacted by gene therapy? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-04-3049 min
CurioscityScience in Movies III (w/ Allison Williams and TJ Russell!)It is common to be exposed to topics involving science in school, but this rarely is made as exciting as watching a sci-fi film. What creative liberties do filmmakers take to make their masterpiece, and what do they get right? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-04-2350 min
CurioscitySimple Machines (w/ Adele Musicant!)Fundamental physical properties govern our lives and how our world operates. Today, we will discuss simple machines and how they have contributed to human advancement. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-04-1652 min
CurioscityMitochondrial DNA (w/ Jessica Warren!)There’s one place you can find DNA within your own cells that isn’t the nucleus. What are mitochondria? Why do they have DNA and why don’t all mitochondria throughout the world have the same genes? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-04-0941 min
CurioscityProtein Structure I (w/ Shannon Speer!)After an episode about lipids and nucleic acids, it’s time to forget about sugars and talk about my favorite bio-molecules: proteins. What are amino acids? What are some protein functions? Why do proteins’ structure often inform their function? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-04-0234 min
CurioscityThe RNA Earth Hypothesis (w/ Allison Williams!)It’s time to go deeper than the anthropological record. Long before ferns, salamanders, and Sam Raimi, there were precursor molecules that would eventually lead to life. What is the RNA earth hypothesis? How could the complexities of life have started? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-03-2639 min
CurioscityBringing a Drug to Market (w/ Josh Yoder!)This podcast has discussed science and impacts of scientific discovery for one year now. We haven’t yet discussed how a laboratory, university, government, or company is capable of bringing a helpful small molecule to market. How does one bring a drug to market? Is it a simple process? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-03-1953 min
CurioscityMalaria (w/ TJ Russell!)Carried by throngs of buzzing mosquitoes, the malaria parasite contributes significantly to global morbidity and mortality. Today, we’ll discuss the definition of a parasite, what malaria is, and how Disney fought the good fight. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-03-1244 min
CurioscityZoonosis (w/ Crystal Mendoza!)While today’s research often has a bias of being primarily for the benefit of humankind, there are many pathogens that negatively affect other organisms on Earth. Today, we’ll discuss zoonosis and how transfer of a pathogen from one organism to another can shape global health. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-03-0551 min
CurioscityNucleic Acids II (w/ Emily Madden!)With a name like Nucleic Acids I, you’ve have expected more discussion about RNA in episode 8: unfortunately, that episode was chock full of DNA. Today, we’ll discuss the real GOAT nucleic acid: RNA. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-02-2743 min
CurioscityComputer Viruses (w/ Archer Harmony!)This is Curioscity, the show about viruses – the kind that make your computer sick. What is a computer virus? How is a computer virus different than malware? Does this episode justify having a laptop on the season 2 artwork? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-02-2040 min
CurioscityInnovator Inc(ubator) I (w/ Alana Lesnansky!)Many scientists have adapted Hollywood’s traditional “elevator pitch”: a brief, persuasive spiel that you use to spark interest in you, your organization, or your product. Today, we’ll take that elevator pitch to its roots to compete for who can propose a ‘better’ science television show for a non-scientist audience. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-02-1340 min
CurioscityIs Science Expensive? (w/ Craig Cameron!)This podcast has discussed science and impacts of scientific discovery for one year now. We haven’t yet discussed how a laboratory or university is capable of funding its science. How does science pay for its advances? What are some common line items a biological lab might be responsible for? Is science a business? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-02-0643 min
CurioscityYeast (w/ Mike Pablo!)Let’s face it: we all spend time trying to think about our favorite unicellular eukaryotes. Today, we’ll discuss the fungus kingdom and what yeast actually is. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-01-3053 min
CurioscityHow are Organisms Related and Classified? (w/ Rachel Kruger!)As an attempt to understand the vastness of nature, humans have decided to try to organize the organisms of the world into neat, tidy groups. How simple is the classification of organisms? Is there any debate to how it’s done? What are some of the different schools of thought? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-01-2338 min
CurioscityWhat is Industry? (w/ Jesse Noar!)There are a variety of career paths for a scientist, but those paths might not be immediately clear. What is industry? What are some benefits and consequences to a career in industry? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-01-1647 min
CurioscitySalamanders (w/ Mike Itgen!)Some of my earliest memories of science were simply hunting for the elusive Pacific giant salamander in the coastal northwest. Today, we’ll talk about these slimy amphibians and how they contribute to scientific research. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-01-0959 min
CurioscityHuman Immunodeficiency Virus (w/ Brianne Barker!)Human Immunodeficiency virus is a virus that functions within the cell differently than any virus we’ve discussed before. HIV has led to Nobel prizes, societal discussion and discrimination, and significant morbidity and mortality, and was only first named in 1986. Today we’ll discuss HIV and the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2020-01-021h 13
CurioscityAntibiotics and our Future Crisis (w/ Brian Conlon!)Antibiotics are pharmaceuticals that can prevent certain types of bacterial infection. Recognized with a 1945 Nobel Prize in Medicine, humans have previously used antibiotics for millennia to treat infections without having even known what caused those infections. What are the benefits to antibiotics? What are the consequences? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-12-1258 min
CurioscityGrab Bag IV (w/ Adele Musicant!)Some topics are short and sweet, but do not warrant an entire episode of conversation. There have been many requests for smaller topics to be discussed: thusly, establishment of the grab bag is a proper solution. Today we’ll discuss dry ice; women’s representation in film; and science communication to allow us to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-12-0545 min
CurioscityScience in Movies II (w/ Allison Williams and TJ Russell!)It is common to be exposed to topics involving science in school, but this rarely is made as exciting as watching a sci-fi film. What creative liberties do filmmakers take to make their masterpiece, and what do they get right? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-11-2851 min
CurioscityThe Liver (w/ Nyssa Tucker!)The liver is an organ that is mostly indispensable for life as animals know it. What are organs? Why do we need them? What is the liver? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-11-2133 min
CurioscityWhy do Side Effects Vary? (w/ Connor Wander!)Drug discovery has helped ease pain, prevent disease, and save lives. However, humans are new to the game at designing molecules to aid human health. What are pharmaceuticals? What are side-effects? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-11-1446 min
CurioscityCrohn's Disease (w/ Shehzad Sheikh!)People who have years of experience with Crohn’s disease under their belt know it’s no joke. What is the digestive tract? What happens when your immune system picks on it unfairly? What is the current course of treatment for these disorders? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-11-0746 min
CurioscitySpooky Things (w/ Jen Buchholz!)Boo! Did I scare you? What is it to be scared? Can we define emotions, and how do emotions like fear tie into our daily life nowadays? How are fear and anxiety related? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-10-3141 min
CurioscityScaling Up Chemical Reactions (w/ Steve Sujansky!)Creating molecules that are relevant for life is a challenge that humans are only just dipping their feet into. There is a demand for creating molecules related to medicine, agriculture, or materials. How does one do chemical synthesis? What are limitations? What are some examples of scaled chemical reactions? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-10-2441 min
CurioscityNon-human Primates as Model Organisms (w/ Zachary Billman!)Great! I’m a primate. We conclude this year’s series on model organisms by talking about non-human primates. What is a good model? What are the benefits and consequences of non-human primates? What are the ethical dilemmas attached to any model system? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-10-1745 min
CurioscityiGEM II (w/ East Chapel Hill!)Science accessibility has gotten better and better over the last few decades, and standardizing the tools to be able to do it has been a huge part. Today, we will discuss how a high school in the Chapel Hill area contributes to the scientific field of synthetic biology in a global fashion. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-10-1032 min
CurioscityiGEM I (w/ East Chapel Hill!)Science accessibility has gotten better and better over the last few decades, and standardizing the tools to be able to do it has been a huge part. Today, we will discuss how a high school in the Chapel Hill area got started in the scientific field of synthetic biology, and how you could do it next. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-10-0324 min
CurioscityGrab Bag III (w/ Philip Hollingsworth!)Some topics are short and sweet, but do not warrant an entire episode of conversation. There have been many requests for smaller topics to be discussed: thusly, establishment of the grab bag is a proper solution. Today we’ll discuss nutrients at the seafloor; gain of function mutations spurred by the atom; the countless combinations of colors in your typical Rubik’s cube; and, cultural understanding at the turn of the 20th century to allow us to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-09-2655 min
CurioscityPermaculture (w/ Dan Mar!)Jared Diamond once wrote an article in 1987 entitled “The Worst Mistake in the History of the Human Race”: how humans’ advent of agriculture might have been an excellent development for us, but also a terrible curse. Today, we will explore a cousin strategy to typical agriculture: permaculture. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-09-1952 min
CurioscityCryptocurrency (w/ Archer Harmony!)Home to near two thousand different currencies at the time of recording, cryptocurrency has pushed the boundaries on currency exchange within the last fifteen years. What is cryptocurrency? Where did the idea begin? Should you buy in? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-09-1254 min
CurioscityCombustion and Photosynthesis (w/ Kathy Yeager!)Chemical reactions define the world around us with invisible elements and symbols. While atoms can neither be created nor destroyed, the identities of the compounds they make up are constantly changing. What is a chemical reaction? How can it proceed? What is a catalyst? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-09-0550 min
CurioscityAnalytical Sciences (w/ Bob Yeager!)Science is often intrinsically linked to quantification; the ability to report accurate data to peers and colleagues provides the basis for reproducibility. What are some simple ways that we think about measurements and error? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-08-2927 min
CurioscityData Visualization and Sonification (w/ Fadi Alnaji!)Scientists support their ideas with data, but it can become challenging to explain data when you’re not familiar with the field or it is presented in a confusing way. Are there other ways that one can show data and support their arguments? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-08-2247 min
CurioscityThe Double Doc (w/ Adam Lauring!)The formal title doctor can refer to a variety of different research or professional degrees. To achieve one is a huge accomplishment; but is there a utility to having two? What kind of doctorates are there? What are the benefits or consequences of having more than one? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-08-1546 min
CurioscityScience in Movies I (w/ Evan Flynn!) It is common to be exposed to topics involving science in school, but this rarely is made as exciting as watching a sci-fi film. What creative liberties do filmmakers take to make their masterpiece, and what do they get right? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-08-0851 min
CurioscityThe Trials and Tribulations of Graduate Education (w/ Jen Heemstra!)If one completes a college degree but doesn’t have a fully solidified next step, it can look to the casual observer that the logical place to go is a research or professional degree. How are these degrees dissimilar from a bachelor’s degree? What are some common complaints and issues for graduate students today? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-08-011h 16
CurioscityCells as Model Systems (w/ Emery [formerly Grace] Usher!)Repel! I’m a cell. The word may be a bit nebulous, but cells are the smallest unit of life that we can define, and all living things are made up of cells. Today, we’ll discuss using human cells as models for research and how those “cells-in-dishes” are different than the cells in our very own bodies. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-07-2541 min
CurioscityHuman Evolution and Migration (w/ Molly Rathbun!)This show has previously discussed the concept of evolution, but it’s time to put it into practice with our own species. Humankind as we understand it only developed a few hundred thousand years ago and was surrounded by “cousin” hominids from genetic ancestors. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-07-181h 13
CurioscityAcademic Administration I (w/ Eric J. Barron!)A common way to learn is seek higher education, which today is often provided by universities across the world. Most learn to thank their professors, teachers, and mentors, but it may be unclear how important it is to have a dedicated administration at those same educational institutions. Today, we’ll discuss a journey from a bachelor degree to being a university president. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-07-1132 min
CurioscityFireworks (w/ Sam Hartmann!)In the United States, the fourth of July is commonly associated with fireworks, but the technology of gunpowder came from much earlier. What is the chemistry of the firework, and what is the historical basis? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-07-0430 min
CurioscityGrab Bag II (w/ Seria Chatters!)Some topics are short and sweet, but do not warrant an entire episode of conversation. There have been many requests for smaller topics to be discussed: thusly, establishment of the grab bag is a proper solution. Today we’ll discuss ethics in science and the case study of head transplants; similarities and dissimilarities of diversity and race; and how overcoming adversity allows us to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-06-2758 min
CurioscityCaves and Karst (w/ Brian Redder!)Much like myself, many animals that live deep within caves have no skin pigment, eyesight, and have slow metabolism. What is the importance of these habitats? What is limestone? How are caves formed? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-06-2049 min
CurioscityModel of the Atom (w/ Pedro Rivera Pomales!)What scientists understand as the basic unit of a chemical element has been heavily scrutinized for over one hundred years. What are the fundamental components of an atom? What are elements? How did philosophy and science work together for the discovery of the atom? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-06-1337 min
CurioscityA Brief History of Evolution (w/ Aaron Griffing!)Survival of the fittest is a famous anecdote but isn’t always the best way of describing natural selection. Who was Charles Darwin? Whose shoulders did he stand on? What is evolution? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-06-0650 min
CurioscityThe Endosymbiotic Hypothesis (w/ Henry Hsiung!)If I told you that hummingbird flight muscle was one of the richest known sources of mitochondria, could you guess as to what a mitochondrial function is? Today we will discuss the endosymbiotic hypothesis in terms of mitochondria while keeping in mind that the process is equally applicable to chloroplasts. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-05-3036 min
CurioscityBig Data and Machine Learning (w/ Divyanshi Srivastava!)More and more fields collect as much data as possible in order to draw the most principled and specific conclusions possible. Still, without analyzing these data, there is no simple way to draw a conclusion. How do humans use computational resources to analyze data? What is big data and machine learning? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-05-2342 min
CurioscityWhat do Scientists do Day-to-Day? (w/ Amber Miller, Heather Giebink, and Tom Henderson!)It is clear that not all scientists are the lone, white coated figure surrounded by multicolored vials in the depths of the laboratory. To have an effective scientific community, a diverse and skilled group of individuals are required. What are some less stereotypical scientific careers? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-05-1645 min
CurioscityMethods to See Really Big Things from Really Far Away (w/ Emma Raich!)Last week we discussed seeing objects that are atomically small. Seemingly atomically small from our naked eyes on Earth, it can be incredibly challenging to see entire planets in the universe. Today, we will discuss astronomy, planets and stars, current ways to see these objects, and how round the Earth is. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-05-0943 min
CurioscityMethods to See Really Small Things (w/ Neela Yennawar!)A picture is worth 1,000 words and scientists’ pictures tend to be crystal structures. What are ways that that scientists can see very small things? How are these techniques different for material science, biology, chemistry, or physics? What is crystallography? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-05-0248 min
CurioscityInvasive Species (w/ Kyla Garten!)Invasive species challenge the natural environment of many places they once did not call home. Why are invasive species dangerous? What are invasive species contributions to ecology, geomorphology, the economy, human health, or biodiversity? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-04-2541 min
CurioscityWorms as Model Organisms (w/ Mahtab Peyambari!)Squirm! I’m a worm. With a name as long as Caenorhabditis elegans, you might expect this model organism to be larger. What is a model organism? Why would a researcher use a worm to represent research as a model? What is the historical basis of C. elegans research? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-04-1840 min
CurioscityWhat are Biofilms? (w/ Gregory Broussard!)Last week we spoke of bacteria, a major contributor to biofilms. What are biofilms and why do microbes make them? How is human health impacted by this mechanism of microbial life? Why do my teeth feel so fuzzy? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-04-1152 min
CurioscityWhat are Bacteria? (w/ Neeraj Karamchandani!)Imagine having a twin split out of you in twenty minutes flat; each of you split again in another twenty minutes. In a scant few hours, there are billions of you. This happens with bacteria every day in almost every environment one can imagine. Just what is this domain of life? Why are bacteria important to our global ecosystem? Are they always dangerous? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-04-0455 min
CurioscityCholesterol (w/ Averie and Chelsea Elias!)It’s hard to believe that something as generically described as cholesterol could be so important. High levels of “a waxy substance” result in no side effects until a heart attack or a stroke. What are lipids, or fats? How does the human body get fats? What are relevant pharmaceuticals related to cholesterol? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-03-2855 min
CurioscityEnteroviruses that aren't named Poliovirus (w/ Vincent Racaniello!)The sheer reduction of poliomyelitis-ridden individuals is a testament to how effective the poliovirus vaccines are. Still, related viruses like rhinoviruses, coxsackieviruses, and enteroviruses cause significant burden to public health. What are picornaviruses? Why is there a need for researching viruses like EV-D68 and EV-A71? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com. 2019-03-211h 04
CurioscityJoseph Lister and Sterility (w/ Donald Hahn!)Listerine was not made by Joseph Lister, but was named in his honor. What is the purpose of mouthwash? Why are we urged to wash our hands? Who were some of the physicians responsible for reducing mortality of surgery and hospital living? How are things sterilized now? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com.2019-03-1445 min
CurioscityWhat is the Nobel Prize? (w/ Rachel Kruger!)To be a Nobel Laureate is one of the greatest honors that can be given. What does this prize represent? Where are the Prizes origins? Why are there fewer prizes in economics than other prizes? What are the complications with the Nobel Prize in today’s society? Was Alfred Nobel the last great Alfred? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com.2019-03-0731 min
CurioscityThe Birds and the Bees, Sperm and Eggs (w/ Matt Fares!)My earliest memories of life were whistling air and gentle clouds as the stork delivered me to my humble home: a wolfpack! As I grew older, I puzzled over the importance of reproduction and how genetic diversity played into the population-at-large around me. Today, we’ll discuss some of the reasons that DNA is important in acting as a blueprint; different ways that life has discovered to be able to reproduce; and some crazy folktales that have helped explain the birds and the bees. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you...2019-02-2849 min
CurioscityIt's in Their Genes (Nucleic Acids I) (w/ Donna Haines & Dale Ayton!)Why can’t I give birth to an elephant? Why do each of my feet have five toes and not three toes and two conjoined toes? What is DNA and how is it so fundamentally important to how each of us develop? Today, we’ll discuss DNA, the central dogma, and twins. Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com.2019-02-2140 min
CurioscityGrab Bag I (w/ Susan Russell!)Some topics are short and sweet, but do not warrant an entire episode of conversation. There have been many requests for smaller topics to be discussed: thusly, establishment of the grab bag is a proper solution. Today we’ll discuss individuals who think they’re more capable than they are; how one determines what reputable information is; coffee without a filter; and, how to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com.2019-02-141h 27
CurioscityBatteries: Zap, but How? (w/ Tom Nigl!)James Hetfield might have said it best when he said “Battery is here to stay”. Much of humankind has become increasingly more dependent on portable electrical energy. What is a battery? What makes a better battery? How are current researchers looking to improve the battery? Let’s learn to be scientifically conversational. For all references and supplemental information, you can navigate to ascienceshow.com.2019-02-0744 min