Science
Solving the World's Problems: energy security
Every two weeks we try and replicate something that is performed in close conversation in pubs, bars, cafes and group chats around the world. We try to Solve the World's Problems, and our… Audio
Genomics and the future of gene technology in Aotearoa
Advances in the field of genomics (the study of DNA and genomes) have meant big leaps in our ability to sequence, understand and manipulate the genomes of living things. Damian Christie explores… Video, Audio
Claire Concannon: Back from the Synchrotron
Mark Leishman catches up with host of RNZ's Our Changing World to hear about her recent adventure to the Australian synchotron. Audio
What if... we sequenced every infectious disease in NZ?
During the Covid-19 pandemic, New Zealand researchers led the way in sequencing the virus, and in figuring out puzzling transmission pathways. Video
What if... we sequenced every waterway in New Zealand?
Living things leave tiny traces of DNA as they move around their environment. Now scientists can determine the quality of a waterway by using eDNA to see who lives there. Video
What if... we can use genetic testing to beat cancer?
Around 25,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year in Aotearoa. Genomics can help us detect cancer sooner and treat it more precisely. Video
What if... genomics could help save an endangered species?
In 2018 the kākāpō became the first species in the world to have every individual's genome sequenced. How is the information being used today to help conservation? Video
Our Changing World – Genomics in Aotearoa
From helping taonga species such as the kākāpō, to early identification of cancer, to tackling food security: New Zealand scientists are using genomics – the study of DNA or genetics – to find… Audio
Feature interview: How refrigerators changed the world
107 times a day, we open the doors to one of the most consequential inventions in the history of food and drink. The refrigerator. Audio
Digging into diamonds, depression and placebos, astrophysicist Brian May
As the second-biggest diamond is dug out of the earth, science correspondent Allan Blackman looks at why we use the term carat to describe them and why they spontaneously turn into graphite. Audio
One of world's most endangered frogs released at Zealandia
There are no other wild populations on the mainland as they're heavily impacted by habitat loss, disease and predation.
Parents are shipping melatonin in from overseas. Why?
Some parents say melatonin is the only way to get their kids to sleep and the medication should be easier to get in New Zealand. Audio
The physics of light
Professor Sir Michael Berry is one of the world's leading theoretical physicists with a special interest in light. He's been in the country to deliver a lecture titled "The Physics of Light in Eighty… Audio
How little exercise can you get away with?
Doing short intense exercise bursts provides significant health benefits, new research shows, offering a promising alternative for those struggling to find time to do get enough exercise in. Audio
The Kiwi who's helping astronauts go to the stars
Bryan Caldwell has led earth-based "analogue" missions for the US space agency for six years, helping to prepare astronauts for the conditions of space in simulated isolation. Audio
Argue with Science
Mary Argue is back guiding us through the latest weird and wonderful headlines from the world of science. Audio
Calling Home: Bryan Caldwell in Houston, Texas
Originally from Upper Hutt, Bryan Caldwell started his working life as a stage lighting technician here in Aotearoa but for the past six years, he's been working for NASA at the Johnson Space Center… Audio
Stranded astronauts stuck in space until next year
Issues with the Boeing Starliner's propulsion system make it too risky to carry its first crew home, NASA said.
Why internet searches are serving up 'AI slop'
AI-generated gibberish is taking over the internet - unwanted and unloved, but unstoppable? Audio
Mpox 101 with Dr Chris Smith
A severe outbreak of a new variant of mpox with a death rate of 10% triggered the WHO to declare a global health emergency last week. Cambridge University clinical virologist and naked scientist Dr… Audio
