PODCAST · science
Arizona Science
by AZPM
From astronomy to cancer research and beyond, explore the latest scientific and technological innovations taking place in Arizona.
Episodes
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Exploring advanced nanoelectronics
Scientists are researching the smallest tools for advanced electronics. University of Arizona Materials Science professor Zafer Mutlu works with objects too small to be seen with the naked eye or even standardized microscopes. He describes how nano technology can make electronics stronger under...
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Investigating a new link toward longevity
A drug called Rapamycin impacts the immune system to help organ transplant patients accept foreign tissue. University of Arizona pharmacy professor Bonnie LaFleur says researchers have discovered it can also be useful as an anti-aging drug. Bonnie LaFleur spoke with Tim Swindle, professor…
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Exploring the universe with radio astronomy
Radio astronomers search the sky for sources sending out invisible light, including black holes and exploding stars. University of Arizona researcher Kate Alexander investigates locations known to emit radio light, and links her findings with other types of light on the electromagnetic spectrum....
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How plant breeding transforms the foods we eat
Plant scientists are discovering the original variant of popular crops might bring a higher quality of produce. University of Arizona professor Alonso Favela explains why returning to the past could be necessary for advancing sustainable agriculture. Alonso Favela spoke with Tim Swindle…
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Using tree rings to pinpoint ancient natural disasters
Evidence found in tree rings has uncovered massive mudflows that shaped the Pacific Northwest 500 years ago. University of Arizona researcher Bryan Black discusses how seismic activity that rocked Mount Rainier in the 16th century turned the landscape into what we see today. Bryan Black spoke…
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Exploring exoplanets with the Pandora Space Telescope
The latest in a series of outer space observatories is sending back images and data from Earth orbit. University of Arizona planetary scientist Daniel Apai discusses the new Pandora Space Telescope, and what it is expected to tell astronomers about exoplanets and their atmospheres. Daniel Apai...
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Searching for breakthroughs in generating fusion energy
Nuclear fusion holds the promise of solving the world's energy challenges. University of Arizona researcher Tomas Diaz de la Rubia discusses the latest breakthroughs in developing nuclear fusion and how it has advantages over currently-operating nuclear power plants.Tomas Diaz de la Rubia spoke...
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Exploring an ancient fossil mystery in South America
Scientists have spent decades studying whale fossils found on land near the Chile's Pacific coast. University of Arizona Geosciences professor Barbara Carrapa discusses how volcanic activity in the Andes Mountains actually led to the demise of the whales seven million years ago. Barbara Carrapa...
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Looking at the connection between evolution and aging
Evolution plays a role in why some species have more longevity than others. University of Arizona molecular scientist George Sutphin discusses how the process of aging produces what is naturally best for animals ranging from sharks to humans.George Sutphin spoke with Erika Hamden, astrophysicist…
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The next steps in studying childhood asthma
A common antibiotic designed to help kids with breathing problems isn't performing as expected. University of Arizona pediatrics professor Fernando Martinez discusses why certain medications are not effective for treating asthma, and could lead to increased hospital stays instead. Fernando…
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Studying this year's monsoon
Some parts of southern Arizona have received higher-than-usual rainfall this summer. National Weather Service forecaster Julia Tetrault discusses what is making the monsoon more active than previous years, and why the conditions are just right for rain in southern Arizona. Julia Tetrault spoke…
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The hidden value of protecting endangered species
Scientists have discovered when one plant or animal faces extinction, the whole ecosystem is threatened. Michael Robinson with the Center for Biological Diversity talks about protecting the Mexican gray wolf in southern Arizona, and how it is crucial to wildlife patterns across the region.…
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Discovering what makes plants drought resistant
Scientists have discovered certain plants get a head start on survival in drought conditions. University of Arizona researcher Alexander Bucksch discusses how some root systems use tiny hooks that bring in water and keep plants alive. Alexander Bucksch spoke with Erika Hamden, Astrophysics...
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Changing the way we look at the stars
A new space telescope called PUFFINS will soon be viewing faraway stars through interstellar dust. University of Arizona astronomer Ramya Anche talks about solving the mysteries of polarization and stellar evolution using tools found only in outer space. Ramya Anche spoke with Erika Hamden,...
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New research links COVID-19 to Arizona rattlesnakes
Resarchers are testing a connection between an enzyme similar to rattlesnake venom and deadly cases of COVID-19.
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How better weather forecasting can make a difference in mortality rates
Warnings about hurricanes and tornadoes help save lives, but researchers are beginning to study how alerts about extremely hot and cold weather can make a difference, too. University of Arizona economics professor Derek Lemoine discusses the connection between better weather forecasts and…
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Firefighters focus on their health in a study about forever chemicals
Ongoing research into the forever chemicals known as PFAS is putting an emphasis on the health risks firefighters face. University of Arizona public health professor Melissa Furlong discusses her studies regarding firefighters and their exposure to cancer-causing PFAS chemicals. Melissa Furlong...
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Investigating similarities in how dogs and people age
Scientists are discovering more facts about how dogs age and what humans can learn from them. University of Arizona veterinary researcher Evan MacLean discusses the similarities between dogs and people when it comes to cognitive decline in their twilight years. Evan MacLean spoke to Tim Swindle,...
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Facing a literal loss for words
A new study suggests we are facing a literal loss for words. University of Arizona psychology professor Mattias Mehl discusses the impact of people speaking hundreds of fewer words every day, and how devices like supermarket self-checkouts have eliminated ordinary chit-chat. Mattias Mehl spoke…
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Examining the mysteries of gut health
If you feel "butterflies in your stomach" during times of anxiety, it is likely your brain communicating with your gut. University of Arizona physiologist Maya Kaelberer discusses how the gut connects with the nervous system and impacts our behavior. Maya Kaelberer spoke with Erika Hamden,...
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Privately funded space exploration planned for Earth orbit
The Lazuli Space Telescope is slated to be the first of its kind to be completely funded by private dollars. University of Arizona planetary scientist Ewan Douglas discusses the spacecraft designed to be larger than the Hubble Space Telescope, which was launched in 1990. Ewan Douglas spoke with…
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Studying solar flares on faraway suns
A small Earth orbiting observatory called SPARCS (SPARKS) is surveying solar activity that might impact life on faraway planets. University of Arizona planetary scientist Travis Barman describes how data from SPARCS can increase understanding about our own solar system.
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Imagining the next phase in lunar exploration
The success of NASA's Artemis II mission is leading to discussion about a long-term human presence on the lunar surface. Former Paragon Space Development CEO Grant Anderson describes the challenges involved in creating a moon habitat for future explorers. Grant Anderson spoke with Tim Swindle,...
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Understanding the genetic causes for ALS
Biologists are reporting progress in unlocking the secrets of ALS, or Lou Gehrig's Disease. The University of Arizona's Russ Buchan and Kevin Rhine describe their collaborative efforts investigating the role genetics plays for patients coping with ALS. Russ Buchan and Kevin Rhine spoke with Tim...
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Continuing research on Long COVID
COVID 19 became part of our lives as a global pandemic in March of 2020. Since then, scientists have tracked the phenomenon of Long COVID, where symptoms have lasted well after the patient has recovered. University of Arizona medical professor Sairam Parthasarathy discusses the ongoing research...
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A decade of discovery from the orbit of Jupiter
Researchers have been studying data from NASA's Juno spacecraft since the summer of 2016. University of Arizona planetary scientist Bill Hubbard looks back on nearly a decade of discovery from the orbit of Jupiter, our solar system's biggest planet. Bill Hubbard spoke with Tim Swindle, professor...
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Charting the molecular signaling inside our cells
A protein complex inside every living cell that tells it how to grow. Problems with the protein's signaling system can lead to neurological issues. University of Arizona biologist Andrew Capaldi describes how scientists are examining the inner workings of cells. Andrew Capaldi spoke with Leslie...
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Using artificial intelligence to create Biosphere 3
Move over Biosphere 2, make room for Biosphere 3. Biosphere 2 director Joaquin Ruiz explains how artificial intelligence is moving the concept into the digital age, taking data and helping scientists develop new theories about the evolution of planet Earth. Joaquin Ruiz spoke with Tim Swindle,...
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Uncovering the mystery of a shrouded exoplanet
Scientists are reassessing the potential for life on Trappist 1e, an Earth-type planet orbiting a star more than 40 light years from Earth. University of Arizona planetary scientist Sukrit Ranjan explains why the latest findings are casting doubt on an exoplanet that was once a top candidate for...
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Looking at hard choices for water use in Arizona
Seven states in the Colorado River basin failed to meet a key deadline February 14 on a plan to conserve their shared water supplies. University of Arizona Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences professor Laura Condon talks about the difficult choices ahead for water management in Arizona amid the...
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Studying plasma and why it matters in physics
Plasma scientists investigate ionized gases and how they interact with various materials. University of Arizona mathematics professor Lise-Marie Imbert-Gerard is studying how waves of energy travel through plasma. The findings could help scientists improve nuclear fusion technology.Lise-Marie...
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Why fruit flies are essential for biological research
Fruit flies have been crucial for researchers developing the basic principles of biology and disease. University of Arizona neuroscientist Martha Bhattacharya describes how the insects became pivotal instruments in learning about human genetics. Martha Bhattacharya spoke with Tim Swindle…
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How the science of aging fits into preventing disease
Many causes of death share the same common factor, the onset of advancing age. University of Arizona biologist George Sutphin describes how our understanding of aging could transform medicine in the future. He will be the first speaker in this year's College of Science free lecture series at...
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Helping an endangered desert fish survive
Sonoyta Pupfish are native to southern Arizona and listed as critically endangered. University of Arizona professor Peter Reinthal designed a project that brought the fish to Biosphere 2's Desert Biome habitat and give it a head start on survival. Peter Reinthal spoke with Tim Swindle, professor...
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Investigating the health of California firefighters
Los Angeles firefighters battled the Palisades Fire in January 2025. University of Arizona environmental health researcher Melissa Furlong talks about a study looking at the challenges the firefighters are now facing, including changes in blood proteins that can lead to cancer. Melissa Furlong...
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The importance of gut health
We often hear about feelings that come from our gut. Researchers led by University of Arizona physiologist Maya Kaelberer are working to understand how our gut and brain communicate. Their studies could lead to new strategies for addressing diet-related diseases and more. Maya Kaelberer spoke to...
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Selling the importance of climate science
The Trump administration is moving to dismantle some of the world's leading climate and weather research institutions. It's the latest result in the politicization of climate science. University of Arizona Environmental Science professor Kathy Jacobs explains how explaining climate science has...
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Updating the samples from asteroid Bennu
Scientists from around the world have spent two years examining material brought back to Earth from the asteroid Bennu by the University of Arizona-backed Osiris REx mission. U of A planetary scientist Jess Barnes discusses some of the findings from the Bennu samples, including how one of the...
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Connecting indigenous communities with the science of water use
Many tribal communities are using sustainable practices associated with their culture, but water access is still an issue. University of Arizona environmental professor Karletta Chief discusses how tribes are adapting to drought conditions and ensuring there's enough water for farms and homes....
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Examining the science behind how we make choices
The rapid influence of artificial intelligence is making choice-making behavior more important than ever. University of Arizona marketing professor Martin Reimann discusses how potential consumers who can detect AI in advertising are less likely to choose those products over others. Martin…
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Tracking drought patterns via the jet stream using tree rings
Scientists are learning about the current drought in the Southwest by studying climate change in the past. University of Arizona researcher Ellie Broadman discusses drought evidence found in tree rings that show what happened in the jet stream before man-made global warming took place. Ellie...
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Using machine learning to study natural language processing
Generative artificial intelligence is emerging as a tool to look at how people learn language. University of Arizona professor Gondy Leroy discusses research into how advanced machine learning can help families diagnose autism through the way their children acquire speaking skills. Gondy Leroy...
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Learning from squirrels about microbial health
Squirrels are notorious for being somewhat anti-social creatures. A team of researchers is trying to understand how the animals share crucial microbes that keep them healthy. University of Arizona evolutionary biologist Lauren Petrullo discusses the behavior of squirrels that leads to microbial...
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Investigating the imaginative part of the human brain
People have spent decades trying to find a way to measure the dimension of imagination. University of Arizona neuroscientist Jessica Andrews-Hanna discusses what happens in our brains when we find ourselves lost in thought, or when we develop brand new ideas. Jessica Andrews-Hanna spoke with…
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Turning to wildlife to stop the spread of wildfires
Firefighters have found extensive underground burrows dug by prairie dogs helped them halt the advance of wildfires in some Western states. University of Arizona researcher Courtney Duchardt discusses data suggesting prairie dog colonies can alter landscapes and reduce wildfire spread and...
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Feeding plants and animals using solar energy
Tens of billions of pounds of wasted food ends up in landfills in the United States each year. University of Arizona professor Goggy Davidowitz is leading a team developing a system that collects food waste and dries it in a vertical greenhouse, so it can be used to fertilize fields and feed...
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Investigating dark matter in the universe
Researchers know dark matter exists in the universe, but the evidence is hard to find. University of Arizona astronomy professor Dennis Zaritsky explains how scientists are exploring the space between galaxies to resolve this decades-old mystery. Dennis Zaritsky spoke to Tim Swindle, professor...
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Coping with federal funding cutbacks for research grants
An organization that helps researchers win grants for their work on the University of Arizona campus nearly shut down because of the Trump administration's funding freeze earlier this year. BRISA Center for the Environment director Paloma Beamer discusses how it is continuing its mission despite...
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Scanning the skies for a new ninth planet
It's been almost 20 years since Pluto lost its status as the ninth planet in our solar system. Now astronomers think they have identified a candidate to take its place. Katherine Volk with the Tucson-based Planetary Science Institute discusses a rare object that is orbiting the sun in step with…
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An operations update on the new Vera Rubin Observatory
Astronomers released the first photographs from the Vera Rubin Observatory two months ago. Operations director Robert Blum describes how the University of Arizona-backed instrument is creating anticipation among scientists for new discoveries about the universe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Arizona Science have?
Arizona Science currently has 518 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Arizona Science about?
From astronomy to cancer research and beyond, explore the latest scientific and technological innovations taking place in Arizona.
How often does Arizona Science release new episodes?
Arizona Science releases new episodes frequently with a large back catalog of 518 episodes. Check the episode list for recent publication dates.
Where can I listen to Arizona Science?
You can listen to Arizona Science on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Arizona Science?
Arizona Science is created and hosted by AZPM.
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