Science Friday, as heard on PRI, is a weekly discussion of the latest news in science, technology, health, and the environment hosted by Ira Flatow. Ira interviews scientists, authors, and policymakers, and listeners can call in and ask questions as well.
Science Friday's 13-minute episode explores Kelvin waves, a phenomenon currently affecting the West Coast of North America. Host Flora Lichtman interviews Dr. Andrew Leising, a research oceanographer at NOAA's Southwest Fisheries Science Center in San Diego, to explain what Kelvin waves are and their potential…
Worth it if you're curious about current oceanographic phenomena affecting the U.S. West Coast or want a quick, accessible explanation of Kelvin waves from a reliable source.
Science Friday's 18-minute episode dives into the darker, grittier side of cephalopod biology—a refreshing counterpoint to their typical "smart and majestic" reputation. Host Flora Lichtman interviews two cephalopod experts: Dr. Heather Judkins (integrative biology professor at University of South Florida St.…
Worth it if you enjoy accessible science journalism, want a quick fascinating detour into cephalopod biology, or appreciate irreverent takes on nature documentaries.
Science Friday marks Nobel Prize week with a timely interview featuring Dr. Francis Halzen, the 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics recipient, who won for his decisive contributions to the IceCube Neutrino Observatory and the discovery of high-energy neutrinos of astrophysical origin. The episode explores the IceCube, an…
Worth it if you're curious about cutting-edge physics, neutrino astronomy, or want a quick introduction to this year's Nobel Prize winner and his groundbreaking work.
Science Friday's 16-minute episode features David Byrne, the artist, musician, and Talking Heads frontman, discussing his new book 'Sleeping Beauties: Why Good Ideas Go Dormant and How They Wake Up.' The episode explores why groundbreaking ideas—whether from laboratories or art studios—often fail to gain traction…
Worth it if you're curious about why innovations fail to gain immediate traction or interested in David Byrne's thinking beyond music.