Genes

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

During the Covid-19 pandemic, New Zealand researchers led the way in sequencing the virus, and in figuring out puzzling transmission pathways. Video

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

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

Science commentator Dr Siouxsie Wiles joins Kathryn to talk about research that's modelled how many lives were saved during the first year the vaccines were available, a catnip plant from Japan and… Audio

We know the symptoms of long Covid include things like memory problems and 'brain fog.' But one of the most rigorous examinations of the long-term cognitive impacts of severe Covid has unveiled some… Audio

A new study has provided the clearest evidence yet that Covid-19 can cause regions of the brain to shrink - and lead to cognitive decline - even in people who aren't seriously ill. Dr Maxime Taquet… Audio

Ever wondered how some people are able to function optimally on just a few hours' sleep, while others still find themselves feeling a lot less than ideal after a solid eight hour shift? Those lucky… Audio

A new study out of Sweden says decades of official dairy wisdom is incorrect, suggesting dairy fats can actually protect us against heart attack and stroke. Dr Ali Hill runs the rule over some of the… Audio

As harmful fat accumulation continues to impair our physical health, researchers are warning that abnormal or excessive fat accumulation can increase the risk of dementia and stroke. Researcher Elina… Audio

It's a commonly-held belief that your testosterone can affect where you end up in life. However, a new study claims that higher levels of testosterone in men doesn't give them an edge. Study author… Audio

The New Zealand National Wine Tasting Competition final is taking place at the New Zealand School of Food and Wine in the Viaduct this afternoon. Event organiser Celia Hay joins us to discuss. Audio

According to a new study, people whose sleep pattern goes against their natural body clock are more likely to have depression and lower levels of wellbeing. Lead author Jessica O'Loughlin joins the… Audio

A new study has revealed that puppies are born ready to communicate with people. Evolutionary biologist Gita Gnanadesikan is with us to discuss the study's findings.  Audio

Playing host to helminth parasitic worms could hold the key to living longer and staying free of chronic disease, according to a new article published in the eLife journal. Gastroenterologist Dr Tom… Audio

A common personality trait of leaders is a high level of extraversion. But what about introverts who are interested in obtaining leadership roles in their lives and careers? The answer is simple: act… Audio

New Zealander Gary McLean is a professor in molecular immunology at London Metropolitan University and also a researcher with Imperial College. Dr McLean joins the show from London to look at the… Audio

Dr Claudia Kawas is searching for the secrets to living a longer and healthier life. Kawas and her team have been running a major study of ageing California residents for more than two decades. She… Audio

Nobel prize-winning geneticist Sir Paul Nurse's latest book, What Is Life?, explores the question of what we as humans share with all other living things on this planet.  Audio

Geneticist Neil Gemmell has won the 2020 Hutton Medal for using DNA & new genomic technologies to better understant plants & animals. Audio