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Episode 169: Health Services in America and Australia
Dr Niamh Chapman got into the nitty gritty of healthcare delivery and measures of success with Dr Alistair Fyfe. Dr Fyfe is from Tasmania and completed his medical training here but has spent most of his time practising in America. Niamh and Alistair talk about pursuing a career to improve health for individuals and societies … Continue reading Episode 169: Health Services in America and Australia
Episode 168: Harvard Forest
A science journey that started with pens, how & why trees twist and bend, how bugs unite us all + how one bug is killing entire forests. Join Dr Kate Johnson for chats with researchers in the Forest. We meet Sophie Everbach,a PhD student at Harvard who tells us about how trees bend and Lorelei … Continue reading Episode 168: Harvard Forest
Episode 167: Edible Sound
Dr Julia Drouhin is an Artist and curator with the incredible ability to manipulate and reinvent sound. From radiophonics, to edible objects, transformed technology from past generations and an exhibiton based on “my husband is a dead icecream”, we get a peek into Julia’s artistic process, her abstract inspirations and how her art is connected … Continue reading Episode 167: Edible Sound
Episode 166: Making music out of thin air
Have you ever heard the wind howling, and imagined the howl being converted to be played on piano? Or watched a tree flutter in the wind, and pictured the branch holding a pencil and trying to draw as it flutters? On this week’s episode, Olly hears from Professor Donald Fortescue from the California College of … Continue reading Episode 166: Making music out of thin air
Episode 165: Antarctica isn’t just about the penguins
The Australian Antarctic Festival was here in Hobart last week, including an exhibition at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies. As part of the festivities, Olly led up a panel with four expert guests that come from different corners of the Antarctic workforce: Katie Marx, Dr Nicole Hill, Megan Woods, and Dr Sophie Bestley. … Continue reading Episode 165: Antarctica isn’t just about the penguins
Episode 164: Engineering a way to the bottom of the Ocean
Join Sarah and Niamh in this episode as they talk with Phil Durbin from Finite Elements. Phil shares his experiences in mechanical engineering including using tools like finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics within exciting projects like the DeepSea Challenger. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Co-Host: Sarah Lyden … Continue reading Episode 164: Engineering a way to the bottom of the Ocean
Episode 163: AUS meets USA: Yale Part 2
From earth’s natural solar cells to freezing frogs, join Dr Kate Johnson for the second edition of chats with Yale researchers. Aleca Borsuk studies leaves revealing new information about their incredible internal structure, while Yara Alshwairikh focusses on wood frogs and their amazing ability to tolerate freezing. You’ll also hear Kate, Aleca and Yara chat … Continue reading Episode 163: AUS meets USA: Yale Part 2
AUS meets USA: Yale
This week you’ll hear what it’s like to do research at Yale, whether Australians call stuffed-animals ‘stuffies’ and more! Join host Dr Kate Johnson to hear about Joseph Zailaa’s and Dr Leila Fletcher’s research on plants and climate change and what led them to science. Listen as Kate, Joseph and Leila exchange questions about Australia … Continue reading AUS meets USA: Yale
Exploring the Early Universe
Join us for the final part of our mini-series in celebration of the first images released from the James Webb Space Telescope! Andrew discusses his draw to our quaint little island with a huge scientific platform. He also shares some stories of his key moments as an astronomer in Tasmania, including manning the only observatory … Continue reading Exploring the Early Universe
Episode 160: Galactic Jets
Join us this week for part two of our mini-series in celebration of the James Webb Space Telescope! This time around, we meet with Georgia Stewart, a PhD student at UTAS, studying Active Galactic Nuclei. These objects are used by Georgia and her colleagues to age and classify stellar and star-forming regions, as well as … Continue reading Episode 160: Galactic Jets
Episode 159: Taking Out The [Space] Trash
In this week’s episode, we sit down with PhD candidate, Mars Buttfield-Addison, to discuss the interesting world of computer science and machine learning. Mars takes us on a journey into understanding how her work centres around the important role of tracking the ever-growing amount of satellites and debris orbiting the Earth. Most importantly though, she … Continue reading Episode 159: Taking Out The [Space] Trash
Episode 158: What is a happy brain, Jane?
In our fourth episode of the RHHRF miniseries we talk with expert guest Associate Professor Jane Alty who is an RHHRF funded researcher in neurodegenerative diseases, a senior lecturer at Wicking Dementia Centre, and a neurology consultant at the Royal Hobart Hospital. In this episode we start at the very beginning by answering the question … Continue reading Episode 158: What is a happy brain, Jane?
Episode 157: Tasmanians at Risk
This week, as part of our RHHRF series, we interview Dr Andrew Black. He is a cardiologist at the RHH, as well as undergoing a PhD with UTAS. His ongoing work with the Tasmanian STEMI network is leading the way toward a better future for healthcare in remote areas of Tasmania. In this episode, we … Continue reading Episode 157: Tasmanians at Risk
Episode 156: Cancer genetics with Jo
This week, as a part of our @RHHRF series, we interview a Tasmanian Medical Researcher, Jo Dickinson. Jo is a cancer genetics researcher whose study on ‘Precision Medicine for Men with Prostate Cancer’ received a ‘2022 New Projects Grant’ from the @Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation. In this episode we discuss Jo’s career in Medical … Continue reading Episode 156: Cancer genetics with Jo
Episode 155: Funds for Research
This week we look at scientific research from a whole new perspective! CEO of the Royal Hobart Hospital Research Foundation, Heather Francis, explains how funding bodies like @rhhresearchfoundation allow local Tasmanian scientists to undertake important medical research. This episode discusses the entire spectrum of funding intricacies; including increased interest from large corporate bodies, to the … Continue reading Episode 155: Funds for Research
Episode 154: Mechanical Engineering
Join Sarah and Niamh in this episode as they talk with Dr Sabrina Sequeria from Lightning Protection International. Sabrina was the recipient of the 2021 Exceptional Woman in Tasmanian Manufacturing Award, and shares her diverse journey through engineering in this episode. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Co-Host: Sarah Lyden … Continue reading Episode 154: Mechanical Engineering
Episode 153: Creativity In Tech
Technology and Creativity seem like an odd match, but we speak to Annie Gatenby, a Senior UX Designer, whose experiences as a creative in tech have spanned over 10 years, starting surprisingly from a Fine Arts degree. Joined by returning co-host Anna Abela who also followed the path from art to tech. Show theme … Continue reading Episode 153: Creativity In Tech
Episode 152: Isolated Power Systems
Join Niamh and Sarah in this episode as they talk to Dr Evgenii Semshikov about his PhD research into isolated power systems, and what lessons we might be able to learn from these systems to transition our urban grid infrastructure towards more renewable energy. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Co-Host: Sarah … Continue reading Episode 152: Isolated Power Systems
Episode 151: Electric Vehicles
Join Niamh and Sarah in this episode as they talk to Assoc. Prof Evan Franklin about the challenges and barriers to electric vehicles. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Co-Host: Sarah Lyden Production: Sarah Lyden Media & Promotion: Olivia Holloway (@LivHolloway_),
Episode 150: Tassie Plant People: Ben
Kate chats to Dr Ben Halliwell, lizard-and-plant-man and postdoctoral researcher in the centre for Plant Success, based at UTAS. Hear about Ben’s research into understanding the evolutionary relationships between plants and animals and how he combines his passions for both science and family in the final of our four part series highlighting plant science research … Continue reading Episode 150: Tassie Plant People: Ben
Episode 149: Kate’s Planty PhD
Hear about TWICS team-member Kate’s PhD research from zapping trees, to the findings, highlights, challenges and advice to other PhD students. A love of words, the excitement of looking inside of plants, along with a passion for understanding and protecting plants drives Kate’s continued love for research. We are sure you’ll feel the passion through … Continue reading Episode 149: Kate’s Planty PhD
Episode 148: Tassie Plant People: Vanessa
A passion for plants and science communication, saving a key Eucalyptus species from drought, plant computer games, moving to Australia to do a PhD and more! Listen to this week’s episode where Kate talks to PhD candidate Vanessa Tonet, an associate of the ARC center for Plant Success. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Kate … Continue reading Episode 148: Tassie Plant People: Vanessa
Episode 147: Tassie Plant People: Tim
Feeding the world, fieldwork in wild forests, navigating field-specific scientific languages, the critical importance of plants, and more as Kate talks to Professor Tim Brodribb from the University of Tasmania about plant science and an exciting new collaborative research project. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Kate Johnson (@KatePlantPhys) Production: Olly Dove (@littledove440) Media … Continue reading Episode 147: Tassie Plant People: Tim
Episode 146: A moment with Mibu
This week Niamh interviews TWICS co-host and marine scientist Mibu Fischer. Mibu is a Quandamooka woman with a connection to sea country, her work has focused on the impacts of climate change on Indigenous communities. At TWICS Mibu has been a creative genius and a strong advocate for Indigenous knowledge on the show. She is … Continue reading Episode 146: A moment with Mibu
Episode 145: Paramedic to Entrepreneur
Dr Niamh Chapman interviewed paramedic turned entrepreneur George Polous from Jay-Nik. George is from north-west Tassie and from working in emergency settings saw there was a need to improve the way medications were delivered to patients in these high stress environments. George and co-founder Clare found a simple yet innovative way to adapt the typical … Continue reading Episode 145: Paramedic to Entrepreneur
Episode 144: Tales from Wedge Island: Part 2
Last week, we heard a mountain of exciting fieldwork stories from Olly and her fantastic team of volunteers: Madi McLatchie, Javed Riaz, Benjamin Viola, Sophia Volzke, and Jas Allnutt. The team are camping out on Wedge Island in southeast Tasmania as part of a large seabird project, and have taken a break from getting bitten … Continue reading Episode 144: Tales from Wedge Island: Part 2
Episode 143: Tales from Wedge Island: Part 1
Venturing out from the usual recording room, Olly is camping on the uninhabited Wedge Island in order to research the behaviour of two seabirds: little penguins and short-tailed shearwaters. To help her are five fantastic volunteers: Madi McLatchie, Javed Riaz, Benjamin Viola, Sophia Volzke, and Jas Allnutt. For Part 1 in a double bill, join … Continue reading Episode 143: Tales from Wedge Island: Part 1
Episode 142: World Engineering Day
Tasmanian Young Professional Engineer of the Year David Ewers from VEC Civil Engineering joins Niamh and Sarah to discuss sustainable engineering practice in this special episode for World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Co-Host: Sarah Lyden Production: Sarah Lyden Media & Promotion: Mibu Fischer (@miburose), Kate … Continue reading Episode 142: World Engineering Day
Episode 141: Journey of a geodesist
Premiers Tasmanian Researcher of the Year 2021, Professor Matt King chats with Niamh and Mibu about navigating a career in STEM and also explains the importance of geodesy (and what it is!). Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Co-Host: Mibu Fischer (@miburose) Production: Sarah Lyden Media & Promotion: Mibu Fischer (@miburose), Kate … Continue reading Episode 141: Journey of a geodesist
Episode 140: Bioblitz: Exploring Nature
From the smallest spider to the tallest tree, join Kate Johnson, Lucile Leveque, and primary school children as they explore the bush around Hobart College. Listen to hear what the school children are learning from expert scientists, what a Bioblitz is, and why they matter. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Kate Johnson (@KatePlantPhys) and … Continue reading Episode 140: Bioblitz: Exploring Nature
Episode 139: Science in the Park
Stomping around the park and learning about science, what could be more fun? Join Kate Johnson and Lucile Leveque at Science in the Park. You’ll hear from children who are learning about science by observing worms through microscopes, looking at buried underpants, making beeswax wraps and walking through the park! Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod … Continue reading Episode 139: Science in the Park
Episode 138: Hands across the seafloor
Handfish are a type of anglerfish endemic to Australia. Most species are considered endangered and little is known about them. This week Niamh and Mibu chat with Tyson Bessell about his research into the Red Handfish. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS)Co-Host: Mibu Fischer (@miburose)Production: Meredith Castles (@MeredithCastles)Media & Promotion: Kate Johnson … Continue reading Episode 138: Hands across the seafloor
Episode 137: Earth from a Distance
Join Niamh and Sarah in this episode as they talk to Brian Salmon about satellites and engineering. Brian takes us through how satellite images are processed to become useful and what some of the key applications of these images are. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Co-Host: Sarah Lyden Production: … Continue reading Episode 137: Earth from a Distance
Episode 136: For the love of gardening
Gardening is an age-old pastime, but what can it teach primary school students? This week, Kate Johnson and Lucile Leveque talk to some of the children at Moonah Primary who are cooking and gardening their way to a greater understanding of food, biology, sustainability, and so much more in their school garden. Show theme music: … Continue reading Episode 136: For the love of gardening
Episode 135: Bloomin’ Phytoplankton
The Southern Ocean is not bound by any continent, so how do bushfires from Australia influence marine productivity 1000s of kilometres offshore? This week Olly Dove and Mibu Fischer had a chat with Jake Weis about the role of deserts and fire in phytoplankton production. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Olly Dove (@olsdove) Co-Host: … Continue reading Episode 135: Bloomin’ Phytoplankton
Episode 134: The drips & drops of water management
“Rain, rain, go away. Come again another day.” But what if it doesn’t? From flood prevention to water supply in drought conditions, hydrology and hydraulics protect and help us every day, yet most of the engineering work behind them remains under-appreciated or unnoticed. Join Niamh and Olly as they learn from professional engineer Alice Hines … Continue reading Episode 134: The drips & drops of water management
Episode 133: Techno Criminology
Citizen Science is the new hotness that explores how ‘non-experts’ can research alongside scientists. ‘Big data’ means there is now more data than can humanly (and computationally) be processed by experts alone. This week, Niamh and Meredith speak to Criminology lecturer Dr Vicky Nagy about her use of Citizen Science to help process the massive … Continue reading Episode 133: Techno Criminology
Episode 132: Physically looking inside (of you)
A future of faster, safer, and smarter medical imaging is being paved by … physicists?? This week, Sophie talks biomedical imaging, ACROBEAT, and pig spines for safer surgery, with physicist Dr Tess Reynolds. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Sophie Calabretto (@sophluidynamics)Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles)Media & Promotion: Kate Johnson (@KatePlantPhys), Mibu Fischer (@miburose)
Episode 131: Walk this way
We all know that physical activity is important for a healthy life right? This week, Niamh interviews Associate Professor Verity Cleland about how we can be more physically active and what role our communities play in supporting us to do this. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Production: Olly Dove (@littledove440) Media … Continue reading Episode 131: Walk this way
Episode 130: Improving maternal health
In this episode we interview Dr Andrew Ottaway, the founder of Health Volunteers International. Andrew’s charity aims to improve medical education and capacity building to improve quality of health care in African countries. With particular focus on improving maternal health and access to safe deliveries. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Production: … Continue reading Episode 130: Improving maternal health
Episode 129: Embracing age
In this episode, we chat about ageism with sociologist Dr Peta Cook. Ageism is a type of discrimination based solely on age and has a significant impact on our society. We speak about ageist stereotypes and the consequence this has on physical and mental health. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Production: … Continue reading Episode 129: Embracing age
Episode 128: The Problems with Maths
The number of people studying higher level maths in Australia is in decline. Why?This week, Niamh & Sophie talk to maths teaching specialist Dr Hayden Tronnolone about maths phobia and maths education in Australia. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@Dr_NChapman)Co-Host: Sophie Calabretto (@sophluidynamics)Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles)Media & Promotion: Sophie Calabretto (@sophluidynamics), Kate … Continue reading Episode 128: The Problems with Maths
Episode 127: Fire and Us
Kate chats to Dr Penny Jones about her research monitoring air quality, communicating and understanding the intersection of humans and our environment, making decisions about living with fire, and her experience working in STEMM. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Kate Johnson (@KatePlantPhys)Production: Meredith Castles (@MeredithCastles)Media & Promotion: Kate Johnson (@KatePlantPhys), Mibu Fischer (@miburose), Kelsey … Continue reading Episode 127: Fire and Us
Episode 126: Quantitative Marine Ecology
This week Niamh and Hannah interview quantitative marine ecologist Dr Nicole Hill. Together they take a deep dive into Nicole’s research, including her career highlights such as diving into Antarctic waters and encountering diverse wildlife. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) Co-Host: Hannah McCleary (@mcleary_hannah) Production: Sarah Lyden Media & Promotion: Kate … Continue reading Episode 126: Quantitative Marine Ecology
Episode 125: Plants, fungi and pathogens
This week, Niamh and Hannah are joined by Associate Professor Kara Barry from the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture at the University of Tasmania, to explore her work around plants and their relationships (good and bad) with fungi and pathogens. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS)Co-Host: Hannah McCleary (@mccleary_hannah)Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles)Media & … Continue reading Episode 125: Plants, fungi and pathogens
Episode 124: Engineering, Architecture and Sound
Join Sarah and Niamh in this episode as they talk to Assoc. Prof. Damien Holloway from the School of Engineering at UTAS about architectural acoustics. Damien’s diverse engineering career has spanned from ship hydrodynamics to structural health monitoring to architectural acoustics. In this episode we focus on research work into the acoustics of concert halls … Continue reading Episode 124: Engineering, Architecture and Sound
Episode 123: Science Poetry of Tasmania: Part 2
Tune in to hear science and poetry combined and meet the authors behind the poems! This is the second of two episodes where Kate talks to Tasmanian-based poets reading the poems that they entered in ‘The Poetry of Science’: a science-themed poetry competition for National Science Week 2021. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Kate … Continue reading Episode 123: Science Poetry of Tasmania: Part 2
Episode 122: Science Poetry of Tasmania: Part 1
Tune in to hear science and poetry combined and meet the authors behind the poems! This is the first of two episodes where Kate talks to Tasmanian-based poets reading the poems that they entered in ‘The Poetry of Science’: a science-themed poetry competition for National Science Week 2021. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Kate … Continue reading Episode 122: Science Poetry of Tasmania: Part 1
Episode 121: Designing a Women in ICT Pathways Model
What do you do when you know what the plethora of diversity problems facing Women in ICT are and how to fix them, but it seems like an insurmountable task? You bring together a team of stellar women tech entrepreneurs and diversity champions to get the job done! This week, Niamh and Meredith speak to … Continue reading Episode 121: Designing a Women in ICT Pathways Model
Episode 120: Environmental Engineering
Join Sarah and Niamh while they talk to environmental engineer Robyn Bussey. Robyn’s diverse experiences shows the range and scope of work in the environmental engineering, from runways and infrastructure projects to wastewater and wetlands. Discover what you can do to ensure environmental concerns are at the forefront of engineering projects. Show theme music: … Continue reading Episode 120: Environmental Engineering
Episode 119: Biostatistics: it’s good for the heart
How can we use data to assess cardiovascular risk in Australia? This week, Niamh and Sophie talk to biostatistician and public health researcher Dr Karen Lamb about the design, analysis, and reporting of medical research in Australia. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS)Co-Host: Sophie Calabretto (@sophluidynamics) Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles) Media & … Continue reading Episode 119: Biostatistics: it’s good for the heart
Episode 118: Family History Piecing together the past
Convict ancestry, adoption and skeletons in the closet, find out about the tensions and joys of delving into your family’s past, along with the resources that State Libraries Tasmania have to offer, in preparation for family history month in August! Kate Johnson and Niamh Chapman interview Archivist, Dr Alicia Marchant and family history researcher Beverley … Continue reading Episode 118: Family History Piecing together the past
Episode 117: By the by-catch: mitigation and risk
By the by-catch, it’s more possible to reduce the harmful side effects of commercial fishing than you might have previously thought! This week, Dr Sheryl Hamilton talks to Niamh and Olly about her work researching mitigation techniques for reducing marine mammal bycatch in commercial fishing gear. She also regales us with tales of her vast … Continue reading Episode 117: By the by-catch: mitigation and risk
Episode 116: Fisheries, freezers & forensics
Do you understand how commercial fisheries are monitored? Mibu Fischer and Niamh Chapman chat with Dr Madi Green about her efforts in assisting the commercial fishing sector to monitor fisheries catch to better understand world fish stocks. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS)Co-Host: Mibu Fischer (@miburose) Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles) Media & … Continue reading Episode 116: Fisheries, freezers & forensics
Episode 115: Tremendous Turbo Chooks
Native hens, turbo chooks, whatever you know them as they are a distinctive character in the Tasmanian landscape, but despite their abundance, their populations on Maria Island are shrinking. Kate Johnson and Niamh Chapman interview PhD student Lucile Leveque from the University of Tasmania to learn about her research into the factors that are … Continue reading Episode 115: Tremendous Turbo Chooks
Episode 114: Putting pressure on gut health
The importance of good bacteria in our gut may be more important than ever. Dr Niamh Chapman talks to Associate Professor Francine Marques from Monash University about how gut health impacts heart health and what we could do to harness the important role of the gut to prevent heart attack and stroke. Host: Niamh Chapman … Continue reading Episode 114: Putting pressure on gut health
Episode 113: The buzz around bee health
One third of the world’s food production relies on bee pollination. There is global concern that agricultural sprays may be negatively affecting bee health and foraging behavior. Kelsey Picard and Niamh Chapman interview PhD student Meng Yong Lim from the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, and learn about how the bees gut microbiome may be affecting … Continue reading Episode 113: The buzz around bee health
Episode 112: Heart health and fitness
Ever wondered how fitness and exercise actually benefit health? This episode, Dr Niamh Chapman talks fitness, heart health and more with guests Dr Rachel Climie and Dr Martin Shultz, exercise physiologists and researchers. Listen to find out all about fitness, heart health, blood pressure and the benefits of becoming physically active today! Show theme music: … Continue reading Episode 112: Heart health and fitness
Episode 111: Ecological decision science
When, where and what action should we take in order to maximise the impact of our biodiversity conservation efforts? This week, Niamh and Sophie speak to mathematician Dr Kate Helmstedt about using decision science for biodiversity conservation, and how mathematics is being used to understand ecosystems, how we interact with them, and how they should … Continue reading Episode 111: Ecological decision science
Episode 110: The Downfalls of Doping
We’ve all seen headlines of athletes disgraced by a doping scandal, but what exactly is it the athletes are taking, and why? This week, Kate McMaster from the University of Tasmania talks to Niamh and Olly about her work researching the effects of insulin on an athlete’s performance, and the not-so-dope world of doping in … Continue reading Episode 110: The Downfalls of Doping
Episode 109: Food allergies and phones
For Pint of Science 2021, Dr Niamh Chapman interviewed Dr Jordi Nelis about his innovative approach to food safety. Smartphone-based devices for allergen detection have the potential to empower people with food allergies to check if food is safe themselves. For technology like this, accuracy is so important particularly as sensing allergens can be extremely … Continue reading Episode 109: Food allergies and phones
Episode 108: Stories, Science & the Southern Ocean
Niamh Chapman and Kate Johnson talk to award winning illustrator and author Coral Tulloch. We learn how creating a picture book is remarkably similar to working on a scientific project, involving observation, collaboration and extensive research. We hear about Coral’s experience of Antarctica and Macquarie Island, the subject of some of her books, along with … Continue reading Episode 108: Stories, Science & the Southern Ocean
Episode 107: Smelling Soil
From Antarctica to volcanoes, microbes are everywhere in our environment! Dr Shane Powell from the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture studies how these microbes can benefit us – from cleaning up oil spills, to improving soil health on farms. Hosted by Dr Niamh Chapman and Kelsey Picard. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) … Continue reading Episode 107: Smelling Soil
Episode 106: Building Information Modelling
In this episode Sarah and Niamh interview expert guest Klaus Stroehl from Gandy and Roberts, and Dr Assaad Taoum from School of Engineering at UTAS, on Building Information Modelling (also known as Building Information Management). See how this approach is transforming the construction industry and new technological developments including using Virtual and Augmented Reality in … Continue reading Episode 106: Building Information Modelling
Episode 105: Taking a dive into fisheries science
Tun-a in to hear Olly and Niamh chat with Craig Proctor about the bubbly underwater world of fisheries science! Across multiple decades, Craig’s career has led him from learning Indonesian in the classroom, to working as an international fisheries scientist in Indonesia, to being back in the classroom inspiring future scientists while encouraging them to … Continue reading Episode 105: Taking a dive into fisheries science
Episode 104: Exploring the world of 5G
Join Niamh and Sarah in this episode to learn all about 5G with our expert guest PhD candidate Zac Harrold from the School of Engineering at the University of Tasmania. We’ll discuss the differences between 3G, 4G and 5G, what we can expect with the introduction of 5G and the future of cellular communications. Show … Continue reading Episode 104: Exploring the world of 5G
Episode 103: Ice, ice, maybe?
Ice shelves can be as large as a small country, so how can ocean waves and sea ice contribute to their catastrophic destruction? This week, Dr Niamh Chapman and Dr Sophie Calabretto speak to multi-award-winning applied mathematician Associate Professor Luke Bennetts about wave science, sea ice modelling, and their link to catastrophic destruction of ice … Continue reading Episode 103: Ice, ice, maybe?
Episode 102: Science & Engineering Challenge
The Science and Engineering Challenge is an outreach program to change students’ perceptions of science and engineering. The day involves fun and competitive hands-on activities. It lets students see that science and engineering are more than just equations and theory but requires creativity, innovation, problem solving and teamwork! We chat with students from Clarence High … Continue reading Episode 102: Science & Engineering Challenge
Episode 101: Drought’s effect on how plants carry and use water
Plants are made up of 80-90% water, so it is no surprise that they are vulnerable to drought conditions. Dr Madeline Cairns-Murphy from the University of Tasmania researches how plants are affected by drought, to better inform farmers of when to grow their crops. Listen to our latest episode to hear about the challenges drought … Continue reading Episode 101: Drought’s effect on how plants carry and use water
Episode 100: Cultural Connections & Fisheries
This week Dr Niamh and Mibu had a deep yarn with Dr Emma Lee from Swinburne University. They touched on topics that related to the importance of cultural fisheries and for Traditional Knowledge to be accepted into western systems to create better futures for all Australians. They also touched on the systemic barriers as women … Continue reading Episode 100: Cultural Connections & Fisheries
Episode 99: COVID-19 and Mental Health
It is no surprise that mental health disorders have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hear from Professor Susan Rossell from Swinburne University about tracking the mental health of Australian adults throughout the pandemic. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Host: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) & Hannah McCleary (@mccleary_hannah) Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles) & Olly Dove (@littledove440) Media … Continue reading Episode 99: COVID-19 and Mental Health
Episode 98: Transportation Engineering
Tune in to hear Sarah and Niamh chat with Mathew Brooks about all things transportation engineering. Mathew Brooks is a Senior Associate Transport Engineer with Jacobs and was awarded Tasmanian Professional Engineer of the Year in 2019 and Young Engineer of the Year in 2016. He has worked on many significant transport and civil infrastructure … Continue reading Episode 98: Transportation Engineering
Episode 97: The Ambitious Crossover of Maths and Biology
Tune in to hear Olly and Niamh chat with Dr Shane Richards about the most exciting crossover in history: mathematical biology! Dr Shane Richards is a senior lecturer at the University of Tasmania and helps us explore how scientists can create statistical models of animal behaviour using data they are able to collect in order … Continue reading Episode 97: The Ambitious Crossover of Maths and Biology
Episode 96: When too much nature can be bad
Tune in to hear Mibu and Niamh chat about the complexity of beauty products with Michelle Wong from Lab Muffin Beauty Science. Michelle has a PhD in synthetic organic chemistry (medicinal chemistry), and uses her science know-how to interpret skincare and beauty ingredients in a simplistic way, so you can make informed choices as to … Continue reading Episode 96: When too much nature can be bad
Episode 95: Fluids behaving badly: the maths of fluid flow
Join Niamh as she chats with our newest co-host (and applied mathematician) Dr Sophie Calabretto. Sophie is a fluid mechanist who uses maths to help us understand why fluids flow the way they do, knowledge that has the potential to impact fields like aerodynamics, climate science, health, and industry. Tune in to find out what … Continue reading Episode 95: Fluids behaving badly: the maths of fluid flow
Episode 94: Future Scientists and Climate Change
Check out this Youth takeover with Hannah, Phoebe, Eli and Eleni from Mount Carmel College as they grill Dr Penny Jones on how climate change can affect our health and whether we’re doing enough to stop it! Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS), Olivia Holloway (@LivHolloway_) and Hannah, Phoebe, Eli and Eleni … Continue reading Episode 94: Future Scientists and Climate Change
Episode 93: Future Scientists and Space
Assisted by regular co-host Meredith, this episode featured youth hosts Zoe, Darcy and Hwee-Lin from St. Michael’s Collegiate Middle School interviewing Astrophysicist Karlie Noon. The girls explore the science of space and Indigenous astronomy. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS), Meredith Castles (@MeredithCastles) and Zoe, Darcy and Hwee-Lin from St. Michael’s Collegiate … Continue reading Episode 93: Future Scientists and Space
Episode 92: Future Scientists and Food Safety
Assisted by regular co-host Hannah, featured youth hosts Isabella, Ruby and Allegra from St. Michael’s Collegiate Middle School interview Dr John Bowman. The girls explore how microbes differ from other organisms, characteristics of microbes, and where they can be found as well as food safety and its importance in a changing climate. Host Niamh also … Continue reading Episode 92: Future Scientists and Food Safety
Episode 91: Dynamic Devils and Moving Mammals
We ask behavioural Ecologist David Hamilton how and why the Devil Facial Tumour Disease spreads through devil populations. We also find out how the Tasmanian Devil got its name and ask if we should ship our Devils to the mainland and welcome Koalas to our island. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) … Continue reading Episode 91: Dynamic Devils and Moving Mammals
Episode 90: Food facts with Dr Emma Beckett!
Niamh interviewed Dr Emma Beckett from the University of Newcastle. Emma is a prominent scientist and famed for sharing her food facts themed with her clothes every day on Twitter (@synapse101). Niamh and Emma get into the nitty gritty of how researchers are trying to figure out if we really are what we eat. Show … Continue reading Episode 90: Food facts with Dr Emma Beckett!
Episode 89: Eagles and engineering
Have you ever seen reflecting devices on power lines or birds perched above the lines? These engineering solutions are part of a push towards sustainability in the power system to reduce the risk that threatened birds, like the Wedge-tailed Eagle, will be injured by the power lines. Listen to this episode to learn more about … Continue reading Episode 89: Eagles and engineering
Episode 88: Space Tech: Exploring Mars
Mars, The Red Planet, the 4th Rock from The Sun…it has captured the imaginations of generations of humans and is now being explored by robots who are discovering amazing things about our closest planetary neighbour. Meredith and Niamh talk technology, Rovers and space exploration in this week’s episode with Griffith University’s Professor Paulo de Souza. … Continue reading Episode 88: Space Tech: Exploring Mars
Episode 87: Meat the microbiologist reducing food waste
Australia is the world’s largest exporter of sheep meat products. Transporting the vacuum-packed meat over long journeys causes huge costs to the industry through spoilage. Hear how interest in research application led Laura Rood to a PhD project in prolonging the shelf life of meat products by investigating the microbial organisms that cause meat to … Continue reading Episode 87: Meat the microbiologist reducing food waste
Episode 86: Following aspirations to new heights
Gangalu woman and award-winning systems engineer Taylah Griffin oozes inspiration and leadership. Niamh and Hannah talk to Taylah about how she came to pursue aerospace engineering and her passion for promoting greater uptake of STEM subjects in Indigenous communities. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) & Hannah McCleary (@mccleary_hannah)Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles) … Continue reading Episode 86: Following aspirations to new heights
Episode 85: Making lighting design human centric
In this episode we explore the world of lighting design in buildings approached from a human centric perspective. Our guest Landon Bannister, who has over 20 years experience in lighting design, provides insights into how existing lighting standards don’t match our current environments and how lighting design can be approached in a way that considers … Continue reading Episode 85: Making lighting design human centric
Episode 84: The humanity of maths
What is the link between maths, first life on earth and creativity? Listen to find out how maths is all around us. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) & Mibu Fisher (@miburose)Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles) & Olly Dove (@littledove440)Media & Promotion: Olivia Holloway (@LivHolloway_) & Kate Johnson (@KatePlantPhys)
Episode 83: Songs of Science
Music and science meet in the life of Emily Sheppard, a classical musician and environmental scientist who composes music about nature and plays in caves, fields and forests. Emily, Kate and Niamh talk about the nexus of science and art and how emotion can be used for powerful communication. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: … Continue reading Episode 83: Songs of Science
Episode 82: Forecasting Australia’s climate future
Hear Dr. Carly Tozer from the CSIRO explain how models are used to predict the future of Australia’s climate to inform the nation’s farmers and industries to better deal with climate variability and climate extremes.Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) & Kelsey Picard (@KelseyOnScience)Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles) & Olly Dove (@littledove440)Media & … Continue reading Episode 82: Forecasting Australia’s climate future
Episode 81: The Science of Water and Wastewater Engineering
In this episode we interview Phoebe Nash a chemical engineer who works in the water and wastewater engineering field. With Phoebe we explore how water is treated before it reaches our taps, what happens when water enters the sewers and measures towards increasing sustainability in the industry. Phoebe Nash received the 2019 Engineers Australia Tasmania … Continue reading Episode 81: The Science of Water and Wastewater Engineering
Episode 80: Stroke of genius to save Australian lives
Niamh interviews Associate Professor Seana Gall about her $5 million grant to prevent stroke and save lives. Seana is using a collaborative approach working with researchers and healthcare workers across Australia and New Zealand to address the causes of stroke and improve surveillance. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS)Production: Meredith Castles (@meredithcastles) … Continue reading Episode 80: Stroke of genius to save Australian lives
Ep78 Working on Water P3: Mibu Fischer
Hannah talks with Mibu Fischer, Quandamooka woman and CSIRO scientist. Mibu’s specific interests are around utilising Traditional Knowledges and management practices are considered within modern day fisheries, coastal and conservation management. Her goal is to bridge a gap that draws attention to the indigenous communities facing the frontline of impacts and changes to coastlines, ecosystems … Continue reading Ep78 Working on Water P3: Mibu Fischer
Ep79 Working on Water P4: Megan Hartog
Kate interviews Megan Hartog, Marine scientist working at the CSIRO Marine National Facility as a Voyage Operations Manager. Megan tells us what it’s like organising different voyages and arranging research out at sea. This series was produced for National Science Week with thanks to the Australian Government’s Inspiring Australia program. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod
Ep77 Working on Water P2: Mary-Anne Lea
Today, Olly talks with marine ecologist Associate Professor Mary-Anne Lea about her incredible career in marine science. Mary-Anne talks us through life out on remote islands with seals and seabirds, as well as how a support network can make all the difference in the sciences.This series was produced for National Science Week with thanks to … Continue reading Ep77 Working on Water P2: Mary-Anne Lea
Ep76 Working on Water: Claire Butler
Olly talks with expert guest Claire Butler on what transitioning from research to working in the marine industry is like, as part of a collaboration between That’s What I Call Science! and The Royal Society of Tasmania for National Science Week 2020. This series was produced for National Science Week with thanks to the Australian … Continue reading Ep76 Working on Water: Claire Butler
Ep75: Fact vs Fiction: our future generation look at the facts
Is fake news a deadly threat during the pandemic? For many people the pandemic has been their first experience of witnessing the scientific method first hand. As the scientific community has rapidly investigated the novel coronavirus, government policy and recommendations have changed in response to emerging evidence. This week the show is taken over by … Continue reading Ep75: Fact vs Fiction: our future generation look at the facts
Ep74: Fact vs Fiction: the role of tech in spreading fake news
Is social media deceiving you and spreading fake news? With much of the world in lockdown we are using social media and devices more and more to stay connected. While these devices are useful, there are some technologies that help provide a gateway for damaging misinformation to reach the masses. In this episode Meredith and … Continue reading Ep74: Fact vs Fiction: the role of tech in spreading fake news
Ep73: Fact vs Fiction: why do people believe fake news?
What is misinformation and why do people believe it? Niamh and Kate chat about misinformation in the digital age with UTAS Philosopher and senior lecturer, Dr David Coady. We ask David about the debate around climate change and he gives us insights into conspiracy theories (and if we should really call them that), rumours and … Continue reading Ep73: Fact vs Fiction: why do people believe fake news?
Episode 72: From testing explosives to COVID testing
Many airports are equipped with a device that can detect traces of explosive substances. Now the creators of this device are using the technology to detect the presence of viruses faster and more accurately than ever before. Professor Michael Breadmore and Mostafa Adel talk us through their ingenious invention. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: … Continue reading Episode 72: From testing explosives to COVID testing
Episode 71: Exploring the world of biomedical engineering
In this episode we explore the world of biomedical engineering, starting with discussing what a biomedical engineer does and some interesting projects occurring in this space in Tasmania. Work completed by local Tasmanian engineers in the development of “OxyGenie” technology which is used in neonatal ventilators is a key component of this episode.Show theme music: … Continue reading Episode 71: Exploring the world of biomedical engineering
Episode 70: A link between food security and health
One in four respondents to The Tasmania Key findings Project’s Food Survey reported running out of food because they could not afford to buy more during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr Katherine Kent tells us about the Tasmania Project’s findings, and what the pandemic has meant for the food insecurity of Tasmanian households. Show theme music: … Continue reading Episode 70: A link between food security and health
Episode 69: NAIDOC Week: Corey Tutt and Deadly Science
In this week’s episode Hannah and Niamh are joined by Deadly Science founder, NSW Young Australian of the Year, and all-round legend Corey Tutt. Corey is a Kamilaroi man, who is passionate about increasing opportunities for education in STEMM for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, particularly those in rural areas. That’s What I … Continue reading Episode 69: NAIDOC Week: Corey Tutt and Deadly Science
Episode 68: NAIDOC Week: The Sociology of Indigenous Inequity
Health and social inequities are huge issues in Australia, between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. The public is often shown the ‘what’ of the issue, in the form of statistics and facts, but very rarely the ‘why’, and the root of the issue. We join Professor Maggie Walter to discuss this, as well as exploring her … Continue reading Episode 68: NAIDOC Week: The Sociology of Indigenous Inequity
Episode 67: The invisible doctors: Pathologists
These doctors diagnose 100% of cancers and inform 70% of all medical decisions, so why don’t we know who they are? This episode we chat to two expert pathologists, Dr Dan Owens and Dr Eileen Long, to find out how medical tests are analysed behind the scenes. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman … Continue reading Episode 67: The invisible doctors: Pathologists
Episode 66: There’s an app for that!
In this episode, Niamh and Meredith talk to UTAS technologist and lecturer Dr Lindsay Wells who specialises in mobile application development. They discuss the way the world is increasingly going mobile, and the benefits and risks that move opens up for us all. They delve into the recent controversy surrounding the Government’s COVID app and … Continue reading Episode 66: There’s an app for that!
Episode 65: A most important measure
Cardiovascular disease including heart attack and stroke kills more people worldwide and in Australia than any other disease. Blood pressure is the single most important risk factor yet measuring it can be extremely difficult. Niamh interviews Prof. James Sharman and Dr. Dean Picone about their work that showed there are nearly 1,000 different blood pressure … Continue reading Episode 65: A most important measure
Bonus Episode: Top tips for PhD students
Our Founding Director Niamh Chapman recently submitted her PhD thesis, she’s officially on the home stretch! Tune in to hear Niamh and her supervisor Professor James Sharman reflect on her PhD. The show is sure to provide some helpful hints on how to overcome common PhD challenges and also how to make the most of … Continue reading Bonus Episode: Top tips for PhD students
Episode 64: Magnificent Microbes
What does beer, bread and sauerkraut have in common? Fermentation! Microbiologist Dipon Sarkar (@DiponSarkar10) explains the good and the bad bacteria in our food, how they affect the flavours and chemistry of the food and explains the craze about sourdough bread. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: Niamh Chapman (@nchapmanTAS) & Kelsey Picard (@KelseyOnScience)Production: Meredith … Continue reading Episode 64: Magnificent Microbes
Episode 63: Mental Health While Social Distancing
Niamh and Kate talk to clinical psychologist Dr Kimberley Norris about how people cope in extreme and unusual environments like isolation. Kim’s research looked at Antarctic scientists and NASA astronauts, but her findings are relevant for all of us to maintain good mental health while social distancing. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod To listen on … Continue reading Episode 63: Mental Health While Social Distancing
Episode 62: The Turbulent Home Life of Lizards
The family lives of lizards are more complex than it seems. In this episode Niamh, Kelsey, and Olly talk to ecologist Tom Botterill-James, about his work studying lizards in east Tasmania, researching how social dynamics are affected by environmental changes and how these social traits have evolved in animals. Show theme music: Kevin MacLeod Hosts: … Continue reading Episode 62: The Turbulent Home Life of Lizards
Episode 61: Celebrating Women in Mathematics
May 12th is an important opportunity to celebrate women in mathematics with the goal of inspiring women’s achievements in mathematics and to encourage an inclusive mathematics community. That’s what I call Science interviewed local early-career researcher Dr Venta Terauds to find out more about her work as a biological mathematician. Venta is using mathematics to … Continue reading Episode 61: Celebrating Women in Mathematics
Episode 60: Miraculous Marine Life in Macquarie Harbour
In this episode Niamh and Hannah talk to elasmobranch ecologist David Moreno, about his work with shark and skate species in Macquarie Harbour here in Tasmania. The unique and challenging environment of Macquarie Harbour has made the species that inhabit it adapt and become unique from anywhere else in extremely interesting ways. We discuss how … Continue reading Episode 60: Miraculous Marine Life in Macquarie Harbour
Episode 59: Can’t see the forest for the drones!
Camera drones are quickly becoming one of the most popular consumer technologies for people of all ages. In research and industry, drones are proving to be invaluable tools with their use bounded only by imagination. What are some of the tasks that drones are being used for in Tasmania? Niamh and Meredith talk to University … Continue reading Episode 59: Can’t see the forest for the drones!
Episode 58: Raven mad! Birds in the Bass Strait
How does the change in land use affect the types of birds that thrive in Tasmania, and what are we missing when birds go extinct? These are some of the eggciting questions Matt Fielding (@mattwfielding & @ecol_evo) is trying to answer in his research. To listen on demand or to access all previous episodes visit … Continue reading Episode 58: Raven mad! Birds in the Bass Strait
Episode 57: How a Tasmanian pearl of wisdom saved the Australian oyster industry
Love them or hate them, the loss of the oyster industry would have huge impacts on the Tasmanian economy. When a global oyster virus began to wipe out the French oyster industry, Tasmania was one step ahead. Hear from Lewa Pertl from the Australian Seafood Industry about how a Tassie breeding solution saved the oyster … Continue reading Episode 57: How a Tasmanian pearl of wisdom saved the Australian oyster industry
Episode 56: Small island BIG energy!
In this episode we explore all things hydro power related including the exciting opportunities of pumped hydro. Wind and Solar are renewable resources which vary significantly based on the weather, so technology to store this energy for use when demand increases is becoming important. While batteries have limitations to store all this extra renewable energy, … Continue reading Episode 56: Small island BIG energy!
Episode 55: Health Literacy starts young
Health literacy helps us access, understand and use information to make decisionsabout our health and medical care. Our health literacy is not an individual skill butan asset for the individual and the community. This week Niamh Chapman interviewed Dr Rosie Nash, health literacy expert,pharmacist and public health lecturer from the School of Medicine at the … Continue reading Episode 55: Health Literacy starts young
Episode 54: Mindfulness – more important now than ever?
Mindfulness is a practice that has shown positive benefits for stress management and health, but what’s it all about? Tune in to hear Niamh Chapman and Dr. Larissa Bartlett discuss what is mindfulness, how can one develop the skill of being mindful and how this could help to cope with stress both in and out … Continue reading Episode 54: Mindfulness – more important now than ever?
Episode 53: The Science of Likes: Social Media Tech
In this week’s episode Niamh and Meredith chat to Dr Emily Lowe-Calverly, a researcher from the University of Tasmania, about the science of ‘Likes’ and how psychology might be the driving force behind social media or social connection in the digital age. They break down the positive and negative aspects of social media use and the … Continue reading Episode 53: The Science of Likes: Social Media Tech
Episode 52: Inspiring women in Kenya
Celebrating women – final installation of our International Women’s Day series. The team from Science in the Pub recently awarded an Inspiring Women in STEM grant to an international PhD student to allow her to go back to her home country and share her research. This week we chat to Dr Emily Flies from Science … Continue reading Episode 52: Inspiring women in Kenya
Episode 51: International Women’s Day Part 2 – Australian of the Year TAS
For the second installation for our 3 part International Women’s Day miniseries we were lucky enough to interview the 2019 Australian of the Year for Tasmania, Dr Jess Melbourne-Thomas. We’re talking about Jess’s research, her experience as a women in STEM and her advocacy work in that space. Jess is a passionate advocate for greater … Continue reading Episode 51: International Women’s Day Part 2 – Australian of the Year TAS
Episode 50: International Women’s Day Part 1 – The Co-Hosts
In celebration of International women’s day (8th of March), we have an awesome 3-part special! To kick it off, we have an episode with ALL of our team members at TWICS. Tune in to get to know the women working hard behind the scenes to bring weekly content covering all things STEM. We will also … Continue reading Episode 50: International Women’s Day Part 1 – The Co-Hosts
Episode 49: Behind the curtain, the science and tech of AI
There are a lot of misconceptions out there about what Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are and what they can be used for. To dispel some of the myths, Niamh sat down with Tasmanian games development company Secret Lab’s Dr Paris Buttfield, Dr Tim Nugent and Dr Jon Manning who along with co-host Meredith Castles … Continue reading Episode 49: Behind the curtain, the science and tech of AI
Episode 48: Intercept of Indigenous Knowledge and Marine Science
There is a wealth of Indigenous Knowledge in Australia, today we are talking about the intersection between Indigenous Knowledge of sea country and marine science. Host Niamh Chapman interviewed three guests from CSIRO: Engagement Programs Coordinator Dr. Ben Arthur, Palawa woman and Coordinator of the Indigenous Time at Sea Scholarship Hannah McCleary and Quandamooka woman … Continue reading Episode 48: Intercept of Indigenous Knowledge and Marine Science
Episode 47: Novel Coronavirus
In this week’s episode we discuss the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) that was first reported from Wuhan, China, on the 31st of December 2019. With the internet being strife with fake science and conspiracies, we decided to talk to a specialist in immunology and virology. With the help of our guest, Associate Professor, … Continue reading Episode 47: Novel Coronavirus
Episode 46: Engineering solutions for bushfire resilience
Can power grids cause bushfires and what advances have made engineering climate change resilient infrastructure a possibility for our communities? Niamh Chapman and Dr. Sarah Lyden interviewed Samantha Vahedi from Hydro Tasmania and Jason King from Tas Networks about the challenges for engineers in the face of a changing climate and increased bush fire risk. … Continue reading Episode 46: Engineering solutions for bushfire resilience
Episode 45: Wildlife conservation and bushfires
There have been harrowing sights of wildlife loss over the course of the catastrophic bushfire season. This episode we interviewed Dr Sue Baker, Research Fellow in forest ecology at the University of Tasmania and Greg Irons, Director of Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. We will cover the way plants, animals and insects have evolved with bushfire in … Continue reading Episode 45: Wildlife conservation and bushfires
Episode 44: Climate Change and Bushfire Risk
The first episode of 2020 covers the topic on everyone’s lips this summer – the Australian bushfires. We chat with Dr Grant Williamson and Dr Bec Harris from the University of Tasmania about the role that climate change is having on bushfire occurrences and severity, and what that means for Australia into the future. Hosts: … Continue reading Episode 44: Climate Change and Bushfire Risk
Episode 43: Seed Banks – security for our future
This week we caught up with budding botanist, Fiona Walsh from Utas School of Natural Science. Listen in as Kelsey and Niamh explore what seed banks are, how they how they might be used and how they can hold the key to ecological and food security for our future. Hosts: Niamh Chapman and Kelsey PicardProduction: … Continue reading Episode 43: Seed Banks – security for our future
Episode 42: Goodbye MS – The team tackling a devastating disease
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that is complex and can be debilitating. Here in Hobart, we have a comprehensive approach to MS research, spanning many scientific disciplines, to improve our understanding of the disease and improve the way it is managed. This week we have caught up with 4 experts each from different … Continue reading Episode 42: Goodbye MS – The team tackling a devastating disease
Episode 41: Hay Fever – there’s an app for that!
The summer season is here (or is it in Tassie?!), with it that typically means higher pollen that will trigger allergic reactions in many people. Hay fever affects up to 1 in 5 Aussies at some point and can be really debilitating. This week we caught up with Penny Jones and Lachlan Tegart from the Menzies … Continue reading Episode 41: Hay Fever – there’s an app for that!
Episode 40: STEM Awards
This week we interviewed the winners of the Tasmanian STEM excellence awards. These awards highlight and acknowledge our local science community and showcase the amazing achievements happening right here in Tassie. Congratulations to all Tasmanian STEM Excellence Awards finalists, and particularly to winners; Dr Stephen R. Rintoul from CSIRO, Dr Carlie Cullen from the Menzies … Continue reading Episode 40: STEM Awards
Episode 39: Going off grid
This week we bring you an engineering special as the isolated power systems workshop brought engineering leaders from around the world to Hobart, Tasmania. What are isolated power systems? Essentially, they are any system that supplies electricity to those off the main electricity grid supply. From small scale operations to one or two households to … Continue reading Episode 39: Going off grid
Episode 38: Tech For Good
Off the back of the Facebook Community Boost events held across Tasmania between October 29th and November 1st 2019, we gathered together the event panelists from Hobart to discuss the global reach of communication technologies and the ways in which tech can be used for the betterment of society. Niamh caught up with Associate Professor … Continue reading Episode 38: Tech For Good
Episode 37: Diabetes, causes, complications and prevention.
280 Australians develop diabetes every day, that’s one person every 5 minutes! World Diabetes Day falls on November 14th 2019 so we caught up with some local experts on diabetes, Dr Dino Premilovac and Brooklyn Fraser. We’ll be covering the causes and effects of diabetes and what you can do to prevent it, starting from … Continue reading Episode 37: Diabetes, causes, complications and prevention.
Episode 36: Let’s vent, the wonder of volcanoes!
This week’s show is a preview of the upcoming Science in the Pub event! We interviewed two volcanologists, Dr Karin Orth and Dr Martin, from the University of Tasmania. Both Karin and Martin vent their expert knowledge of volcanic eruptions, mysterious underwater volcanoes, the formation of new islands and of course, all the ways you … Continue reading Episode 36: Let’s vent, the wonder of volcanoes!
Episode 35: Printing organs or using samples, how do we protect people in research?
Research pushes the boundaries of medicine and biology. Bioethics safeguards the participants that take part in experiments to test new technologies or medicines. This week we interviewed three guests passionate about the role of ethics in research; Dr. Rebekah McWhiter, Dr. Lisa Eckstein and Dr. Frederic Gilbert. A jam-packed episode covering the ethical considerations for … Continue reading Episode 35: Printing organs or using samples, how do we protect people in research?
Episode 34: Putting the M in STEM
Today’s episode is all about the M in STEM, mathematics. We’re talking about why maths is more than just equations and numbers, that it surrounds us in nature and why it has such a bad stigma attached to it. To help us explain this topic we’re joined by Barbara Holland, an associate professor and mathematician. … Continue reading Episode 34: Putting the M in STEM
Episode 33: Killer Whales: Diets, Chemistry & Secrets from the Deep.
Killer whales: highly intelligent, social and elusive. Surely this is the perfect challenge for a marine scientist? Especially when killer whales spend a mere 2% of their lives on the surface of the ocean! Tune in this week as we chat killer whales with Ben Sellers, PhD researcher from the Institute for Marine & Antarctic … Continue reading Episode 33: Killer Whales: Diets, Chemistry & Secrets from the Deep.
Episode 32: Dirty talk – just poo it!
This week we are unpacking the importance of just pooing it. Co-host Allanna Russell caught up with Dr Dan Owens at MONA, Tasmania. Dan is keen advocate of the importance of returning your free bowel cancer screening kit. Tune in to learn more.
Episode 31: Human engineering – putting people at the heart of solutions
Dr Sarah Lyden and Niamh Chapman cover why human-centered engineering is crucial for designing solutions and the work of Engineers Without Borders with special guests Andrew Koolhof and David Pointing. We also caught up with some first-year engineering students who have just taken part in a project to put people at the heart of engineering … Continue reading Episode 31: Human engineering – putting people at the heart of solutions
Episode 30: Kelp, I need somebody!
Global strikes for action on climate change occurred this Friday 20th September so this week we bring you a show that unpacks the impact of climate change in Tassie waters. Dr Cayne Layton from the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies is a marine ecologist who studies the kelp forests that are the foundation of … Continue reading Episode 30: Kelp, I need somebody!
Episode 29: Journey to Mars
Join us this week as we delve into what it takes to get to Mars… and what happens from there? Special guest Josh Richards, a top-100 candidate for the Mars One mission, discusses his motivations for signing up for a one-way trip to the red planet, the selection process and what’s next! A physicist and … Continue reading Episode 29: Journey to Mars
Episode 28: 3 years of research in 3 minutes
Tune in this week for an exclusive show with the University of Tasmania’s 3-minute thesis finalists. From lizard lovemaking to the influence of periods on ultra-endurance performance, we span 4 different projects in this feature episode. Guests included Brianna Atto, Thomas (Tom) Botterill-James, Tess Nikitenko and Kate Edwards giving us the inside scoop on their … Continue reading Episode 28: 3 years of research in 3 minutes
Episode 27: Biosecurity in Tasmania
What should you do about that apple with an unknown disease in your garden? How are problematic pests and diseases from Mainland Australia being stopped at the border? In this week’s episode Niamh and Tessa interviewed Dr Ryan Wilkinson about the work of Biosecurity Tasmania to protect Tassie’s environment and industries from introduced pests and … Continue reading Episode 27: Biosecurity in Tasmania
Episode 26: Scientists of the Future!
In this week’s episode, we spoke to some amazing budding scientists from the University of Tasmania, Elizabeth College and St Mary’s College. Our guests ranged from inspiring engineers, astrophysicists and chemists who spoke about what inspires them and what they’re doing to follow their passion. Tune in to hear from Jess Priest, Luzie Gillard, Daniel … Continue reading Episode 26: Scientists of the Future!
Episode 25: Young Tassie Scientists: Who and What?
This week we caught up with Liam Burt, Silvia Vincenzi, Dr Cayne Layton and Laura Sutton to tell you all about the Young Tassie Scientist program that takes place throughout the month of August as part of Science Week. Since its inception in 2003, the YTS program has involved more than 250 young scientists giving … Continue reading Episode 25: Young Tassie Scientists: Who and What?
Episode 24: Beaker St: A Night at the Museum
Prepare to be entranced by live music, zoological oddities, wandering scientists, and amazing food and drink as the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery comes alive after dark on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th August in Hobart. For this 2019 Science Week special we chatted to some of the people that help bring this captivating event … Continue reading Episode 24: Beaker St: A Night at the Museum
Episode 23: Festival of Bright Ideas – a science feast!
The Festival of Bright Ideas 2019 (aka FoBI) hits Hobart on August 9th &10th! A celebration of all things science, this is a not-to-be-missed event for all ages, with over 40 exhibitors showcasing why Tasmania is a hub for science & innovation, plus demonstrations on the big stage & workshops! This episode we caught up … Continue reading Episode 23: Festival of Bright Ideas – a science feast!
Episode 22: Discovery is at our core: Prof. Elizabeth Blackburn
We have an absolute treat for you this week as we interviewed Hobart born, Nobel Laureate, Prof. Elizabeth Blackburn. Prof. Blackburn is the first Australian Woman and only Tasmanian to receive the Nobel Prize and we interviewed her about her ground-breaking work, the impact of her work for human health, the role Tasmania played in … Continue reading Episode 22: Discovery is at our core: Prof. Elizabeth Blackburn
Episode 21: There’s a Hack for that!
What happens when you mix crazy good skills with creativity and technology? Paranormal investigations, microwave kilns, a wonderful safe space in the community to gain life skills and a place for children to realise their insane ideas. We’re talking about the Hobart Hackerspace. We have special guest Dr Tanya Mclahlan-Troup joining us on-air and clips … Continue reading Episode 21: There’s a Hack for that!
Episode 20: Diamonds from the deep.
Whether you’re the hardest beauty around, a diamond in the rough, or perhaps a girl’s best friend, there’s no doubting the reputation of the most sought after mineral on earth. But how do diamonds come to exist, where do they travel from, and are there any in Tasmania? These are some of the core questions … Continue reading Episode 20: Diamonds from the deep.
Episode 19: Knocking heads
This week we’re talking about a risk factor for developing dementia-related diseases; traumatic brain injuries. We hear from two current PhD candidates from the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre; Ross Langley and Olivia Holloway.Get in touch with the team with questions, feedback or future topic suggestions:Twitter: @nowscienceTASFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nowscienceTAS/Instagram: @nowsciencetas_
Episode 18: Stepping stones to a waste free future
This week we cut through the jargon about bioplastics. We interviewed Councillor Bill Harvey about the impending plastics crisis, the processes occurring in the Hobart City Council to remedy these issues and Hobart’s green waste future.
Episode 17: Gaming for health.
Gamers are only those that sit on their computers delving into a virtual world for hours on end right? Nope! Gamers includes a wide variety of people and the potential of gaming to enhance a multitude of tasks by making them more fun applies broadly. This week we are looking at using technology based games … Continue reading Episode 17: Gaming for health.
Episode 12: How (scientifically) dope is medical marijuana?
Although recreational marijuana is illegal in Australia, medical marijuana has been legalised here since 2016. But what’s the difference? And why can’t you just go ask your doctor for a script right now? Join us as we puff on about the science behind medical marijuana and the ground-breaking research on it happening right here in … Continue reading Episode 12: How (scientifically) dope is medical marijuana?
Episode 11: Under pressure, a simple measure to save lives
The blood coursing through your body carries so much information that can tell a story about your health. Today, we are talking about blood pressure. Have you ever wondered how fast your blood flows and how much pressure it is putting on your heart and arteries? We will be covering what we measured when we … Continue reading Episode 11: Under pressure, a simple measure to save lives
Episode 10: You’ve got to be krill to be kind!
This week we have a special co-host Nicole Hellessey from the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies. Nicole’s work has focused on Antarctic krill oils and the krill fishery. For more information about Nicole follow her on Twitter (@PolarNicole). We interviewed Professor Stephen Nicol to ask the important questions, the krill fishery is sustainable? Here’s … Continue reading Episode 10: You’ve got to be krill to be kind!
Episode 9: Sexual pleasure, the science that gets you going!
What’s happening in your body when you’re getting down and dirty? Why does it feel so good when you do your favourite bedroom moves? During this week’s explicit episode, we discuss the science behind sexual pleasure with excellent insights from a Tasmanian sexologist, Richelle Menzies from Sensual Potential. Acknowledgements:Episode cover image: Photo by Sharon McCutcheon … Continue reading Episode 9: Sexual pleasure, the science that gets you going!
Episode 7: Plastic pollution: seabirds show us the ocean.
Join us as we explore the plastic polluting our oceans, from local shores to the deep blue sea. We met with Tasmanian based researchers, Catarina Serra Goncalves, Megan Grant and Peter Puskic from Institute for Marine and Antartic Studies UTAS and Adrift Lab – Save Our Seabirds. We’ll be talking about how seabirds help us … Continue reading Episode 7: Plastic pollution: seabirds show us the ocean.
Episode 6: More than a feeling – is your gut telling you more than you think?
Most of us know that there are bacteria and other bugs breaking down food in our gut, but did you know these bacteria can affect everything from inflammation to your mental health? We discuss how the digestion of fibre in the gut can lead to changes elsewhere in the body, and how the bacteria in … Continue reading Episode 6: More than a feeling – is your gut telling you more than you think?
Episode 4: Cider Science!
Let’s get busy with the fizzy! This week we serve you a refreshing blend of history & horticulture (a.k.a. garden science), genetics, microscopic creatures & a pinch of chemistry, as we delve deeper into making of this popular beverage. Behind the flavours and fizz, there’s a complex symphony of science, and we’ll discuss current research … Continue reading Episode 4: Cider Science!
Episode 3: Mental health, what happens in your brain?
Did you know the shape and size of your brain can be altered when you are experiencing mental health issues? Or that hormones, naturally occurring in your body, can make you more likely to experience mental health issues? In recent years, considerable effort have focused on raising awareness about how common and serious mental health … Continue reading Episode 3: Mental health, what happens in your brain?
Episode 2: Celebrating women in science
International Women’s Day is Friday 8th March 2019, to celebrate we have dedicated this week’s show to discuss women in science and technology. There are fewer women in leadership roles in the sciences compared to men. Women also get paid less for the same work as their male peers and are more likely to leave … Continue reading Episode 2: Celebrating women in science
Episode 1: Tasmanian Bushfires, fire fuel and fresh air.
In light of recent Tasmania’s recent bushfires, we delved into two key aspects of fire, fuels and planning and the effects of smoke on human health. We interview James Furlaud about how we understand fires and the way research into fires informs how we prevent and manage them in the future. James is a PhD … Continue reading Episode 1: Tasmanian Bushfires, fire fuel and fresh air.