PODCAST · science
Paul Talks Science
by Paul ADEPOJU, PhD
Welcome to "Paul Talks Science," a podcast that journeys into the ever-evolving realms of health, science, and innovation. Hosted by Paul Adepoju, each episode features thought-provoking conversations with experts and trailblazers who are shaping the future of medicine and technology. From groundbreaking research to revolutionary treatments, "Paul Talks Science" delves deep into the stories and ideas that will define tomorrow's world. Join us as we explore the cutting edge, challenge the status quo, and uncover the innovations that hold the promise of a better, healthier future.
Episodes
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Ebola Crossed the Border: How Uganda Prevented a Wider Outbreak
Ebola crossed from the Democratic Republic of the Congo into Uganda 15 times during the 2026 Bundibugyo outbreak. Five more people became infected within Uganda. Yet the virus did not take hold in the wider community. How did responders break the chain of transmission? In this episode of Paul…
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Inside the first human trial of a Bundibugyo Ebola vaccine
Oxford researchers have begun the first-in-human trial of a vaccine against Bundibugyo Ebola virus. In this episode, Paul Adepoju speaks with Katrina Pollock, chief investigator of the trial at the Oxford Vaccine Group, about how the study is being run, what Phase 1 can and cannot tell us, the...
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35 New Cancer Machines, But Who Gets Treated?
Nigeria is planning a major expansion of radiotherapy, with 35 additional linear accelerators expected to boost the country’s capacity to treat cancer. But buying the machines is only the beginning. In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I speak with Runcie C.W. Chidebe, Executive Director of...
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First Nations Cancer Inequalities in Canada
New research has revealed persistent inequalities in cancer outcomes among First Nations people in Ontario, Canada. The study found higher colon cancer incidence at younger ages and poorer survival after breast, cervical, and colon cancer diagnoses. Its publication coincides with Ontario’s…
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South Africa’s Cancer Moonshot
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I explore South Africa’s cancer care crisis through the lens of the country’s first imPACT Review, an international assessment supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency, WHO and the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The episode builds on...
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The Medicine Exists. So Why Can’t Patients Get It?
A medicine can exist and still not reach the patient who needs it. In this episode, Paul Adepoju speaks with Herb Riband, Executive Director of Access Accelerated, about why access to medicines often breaks down between the laboratory, the procurement system and the patient. They discuss the...
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The Cruise Ship Hantavirus Outbreak Explained
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, Paul Adepoju expands on his Lancet Microbe article, “International response to hantavirus outbreak,” with infectious disease expert Dr Neil Vora. The conversation goes beyond the MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak to ask what this episode reveals about…
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The Outbreak We Should Have Seen Coming
In this episode, Paul Adepoju speaks with infectious disease expert Dr Amesh Adalja about why the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is exposing gaps the world should have closed long ago. While Ebola vaccines have transformed response to some outbreaks, most countermeasure development has focused on…
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The Malaria Paradox
On World Malaria Day, the spotlight turns once again to one of the world’s oldest and deadliest diseases. This year, the story feels different. For decades, the malaria vaccine was seen as the breakthrough the world was waiting for. Now it’s here. So why does the fight against malaria still feel...
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Replacing Forever Chemicals: The Hidden Toxins Already in Your Body
What if some of the most persistent pollutants on Earth are already inside us? In this episode of Paul Talks Science, we explore the growing global concern around PFAS, widely known as forever chemicals—a group of man-made substances used in everyday products like non-stick cookware, waterproof...
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Cancer Care Amid Geopolitical Crises
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, we explore the hidden toll of conflict on cancer patients and health systems. I speak with Professor Mark Lawler, Co-Chair of the European Cancer Organisation’s Emergencies and Crises Network, about how wars and geopolitical crises disrupt access to...
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A Cosmic Laser from Eight Billion Years Ago
What happens when two galaxies collide? In this episode, science journalist Paul Adepoju speaks with astronomers Thato Manamela and Roger Deane about the discovery of one of the most distant and powerful cosmic lasers — a gigamaser — ever detected. Using the MeerKAT radio telescope in South…
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Hotter Days, Fewer Boys? How Climate Change Is Quietly Reshaping Birth
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, Paul sits down with Dr. Jasmin Abdel Ghany to unpack groundbreaking new research showing that rising temperatures don’t just affect the planet — they affect who we are. A major study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that...
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When the Cosmic Web Spins
What if the largest structures in the Universe aren’t just expanding — but spinning? In this episode, host Paul Adepoju explores one of the most intriguing recent developments in cosmology: evidence that a vast cosmic filament stretching tens of millions of light-years may be rotating. The...
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AMR is Everybody's Business
Antimicrobial resistance is often framed as a technical problem for scientists and policymakers. But the truth is far simpler — and far more unsettling: the choices made in clinics, pharmacies, farms, and homes every day are helping to decide whether life-saving medicines will still work in the...
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Special New Year Message from Paul
Thank you for the journey in 2025, here is what will be the highlight of the new year 2026. Happy New Year.
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Africa’s AI Talent: Supercomputers, Brain Drain, and Building Solutions at Home
Africa has the talent to power the world’s most advanced AI systems — so why is so much of that talent building elsewhere? In this episode, we sit down with a postdoctoral researcher at a US Department of Energy national laboratory working at the intersection of artificial intelligence and...
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How Topology Is Changing What We See
What if the way we understand shape, space, and structure could help us see disease differently? In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I sit down with South African mathematician Dr. Cerene Rathilal to explore topology, a branch of mathematics that asks what stays the same even when things are...
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Seeing Math Differently: A Ghanaian Researcher’s Awakening
In this episode, we follow the journey of Hannah, a young Ghanaian researcher whose relationship with mathematics completely transformed once she discovered where the equations finally led. From early confusion in abstract university courses to finding clarity through disease modelling, Hannah...
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Faith, Science and Safe Medicines: A Conversation with Prof Moji Adeyeye
📌 Host: Paul Adepoju 👤 Guest: Prof. Moji Adeyeye – Director-General of NAFDAC (Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration & Control) In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I sit down with Prof. Moji Adeyeye to explore her remarkable journey from practicing pharmacist to…
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Building Cancer Systems that Work
Season 3 kicks off with Professor Richard Sullivan (King’s College London) on why cancer outcomes depend less on shiny tech and more on end-to-end systems that actually work. We dig into affordability, widening inequalities, and why “reality-stratified” care beats one-size-fits-all blueprints....
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Resistance, Regulation, and Reformulation: Malaria’s Next Scientific Chapter
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, Paul Adepoju sits down with Adam Aspinall, Senior Director of Access & Product Management at Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV). They discuss the science and strategy behind a groundbreaking new malaria drug for newborns and young children — the first of…
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HIV Treatment and the Realities of Growing Older
As people living with HIV live longer, a new challenge emerges: how do we adapt treatment for an ageing population? In this episode of Paul Talks Science, Paul Adepoju speaks with Dr Loice Achieng Ombajo of the Department of Clinical Medicine and Therapeutics at the University of Nairobi, about...
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How Economics Drives Safer Chemistry
In this special episode of Paul Talks Science—the first in a series recorded during my visit to the Toxics Use Reduction Institute (TURI) at the University of Massachusetts Lowell—I sit down with TURI Director Baskut Tuncak to unpack how economics is playing a pivotal role in driving safer…
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Oxitec’s Mosquitoes and the Promise of Malaria Control
In this episode, Paul spotlights Oxitec — the biotech company behind one of the most ambitious malaria control projects on the African continent. CEO Grey Frandsen joins Paul Talks Science to break down how Oxitec’s genetically modified mosquitoes are being deployed in Djibouti to target…
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Battle of the Mosquitoes
What if the future of malaria control involves releasing more mosquitoes — not fewer? In this special feature episode, science journalist Paul Adepoju takes you deep into the high-stakes fight against a new urban malaria threat: Anopheles stephensi. From the labs of British biotech firm Oxitec to...
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What Genomics Reveals About Mpox
Mpox is surging again across parts of Africa — and this time, it seems like the world is paying even less attention. In this episode, I sit down with Ifeanyi Omah, a Wellcome Trust Doctoral Researcher in Hosts, Pathogens, and Global Health at the University of Edinburgh, to unpack the science...
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The Politics of a Scan: Making Imaging a Global Priority
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I spoke with Prof. Hedvig Hricak, lead commissioner of The Lancet Oncology Commission on Medical Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, to discuss a historic win for global health: the newly adopted resolution at the 78th World Health Assembly that prioritizes access...
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Time 100 and Beyond: Christian Happi on Science, Strategy, and Sovereignty
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, Dr. Paul Adepoju sits down with Professor Christian Happi—molecular biologist, genomic trailblazer, and one of TIME’s 100 most influential people. From his pioneering work on Ebola and COVID-19 to his vision for translating African genomic data into...
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From Donors to DIY Vaccines—Africa’s Leap
In this punchy Paul Talks Science episode, Africa CDC Director-General Dr Jean Kaseya lays out a game-changing vision: shift the continent from donor dependence to home-grown prevention. Hear how “Made-in-Africa” vaccines, a new primary-health-care push, and community-powered disease surveillance...
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Prof. Oyewale Tomori: Throw Away the Box
When U.S. funds abruptly dried up, Nigerian virologist Prof. Oyewale Tomori saw an unlikely gift: proof that Africa can—and must—stand on its own. In this episode, he tells host Paul Adepoju why the continent is “resource-wasteful, not resource-limited,” skewering billion-naira motorcades and…
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Cell Counts and Bank Accounts: Mapping Cancer Risk
While roving the abstracts stand at the World Cancer Congress in Geneva (17‑19 September 2024), Paul Adepoju bumps into Swiss TPH PhD researcher Peace Ayeni and ends up unpacking a jaw‑dropping data set of 4.1 million people living with HIV in South Africa. Her study shows that where you pick up...
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The Shrinking Malaria Map: Vaccines, Funding Shocks and Rising Horizon
On this World Malaria Day, host Paul Adepoju, PhD sits down with genomicist Dr Jane Carlton, Director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, for a candid look at how—and why—the global malaria map keeps shrinking even amid a sudden funding storm. From decoding Plasmodium genomes and...
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Cigarettes, Scans & a Cancer‑Free Future
Recorded amid the buzz of the last World Cancer Congress in Geneva, this double‑feature episode of Paul Talks Science links global policy rooms to ground‑level clinic corridors—with one shared mission: stop cancer before it starts, and treat it smarter when it does. In the first half 🗣️ Yannick...
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Africa’s Maternal Health Paradox: 40% Drop, 70% Crisis
Africa has achieved a remarkable 40% reduction in maternal deaths since 2000—a significant milestone in global health. Yet paradoxically, the continent still accounts for a staggering 70% of maternal deaths worldwide. In this episode, Paul Adepoju speaks with Dr. Adeniyi Aderoba, WHO's lead on...
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Systems, Not Choices: Rethinking Obesity’s Root Causes
Obesity is often framed as a personal failure—but what if the real culprit lies beyond individual choices? In this eye-opening episode of Paul Talks Science, host Paul Adepoju speaks with Dr. Simon Barquera, President of the World Obesity Federation, about the deeper systems fueling the global...
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Can Lifestyle Changes Really Boost Your Cancer Survival?
After a cancer diagnosis, many wonder: What can I do to improve my long-term health? In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I sit down with Dr. Helen Croker, Assistant Director of Research and Policy at the World Cancer Research Fund International, to explore the science behind lifestyle choices...
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Cancer on the Label, Stigma off the Record: How Ireland is Fighting for Survivors
In this episode, we explore Ireland's groundbreaking approach to cancer advocacy through two compelling conversations with leaders from the Irish Cancer Society. CEO Averil Power shares how relentless advocacy led to landmark legislation requiring cancer warnings on alcohol labels, changing...
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Long Reads, Big Impact: The Next Leap in Rare Disease Research
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I speak with Prof. Christian Gilissen, Professor in Genome Bioinformatics and Head of Bioinformatics at Radboud University Medical Center, about the game-changing potential of long-read sequencing in rare disease diagnosis. We dive into: 🔬 How long-read...
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Gut Feelings: PFAS, Microbiomes, and Kidney Damage
In this insightful episode of Paul Talks Science, host Paul Adepoju, PhD explores the hidden dangers of PFAS chemicals with Hailey Hampson, PhD, a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of South Carolina and the University of Washington. Hailey, the lead author of a groundbreaking study on PFAS…
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Forever Chemicals: The Invisible Threat We Can’t Ignore
PFAS – the so-called “forever chemicals” – have infiltrated our water, air, food, and even our bodies. But how did we get here, and what can be done? In this episode, Paul Adepoju speaks with Erik Olson, Senior Strategic Director for Health at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), to…
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Head Hits & Hidden Risks: Unmasking CTE in Ice Hockey and Beyond
Join host Paul Adepoju on Paul Talks Science as he sits down with Dr. Jesse Mez, neurologist and associate professor at Boston University, to dive into the startling connections between ice hockey, repetitive head impacts, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). In this eye-opening...
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Can Your City Make You Healthier? Data Says Yes
How much does your environment influence your health? More than you might think. In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I sit down with Dr. Rumi Chunara, Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Health Data Science at NYU, to explore the fascinating intersection of AI, urban design, and...
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Why Your Postcode Can Determine Your Prognosis
Did you know that where you live could impact your cancer survival chances? Despite having a centralized healthcare system, the UK still faces stark inequalities in cancer care—and for many patients, their postcode can be a deciding factor in their prognosis. In this episode, Paul Adepoju speaks...
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Brain Fog, Fatigue & The Unfinished Fight Against Long COVID
Long COVID remains one of the biggest medical mysteries of our time, affecting millions worldwide—but how much do we really know about it? In this episode of Paul Talks Science, Dr. Igor J. Koralnik, Chief of Neuro-infectious Disease at Northwestern University, shares insights from his pioneering...
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Bridging Gaps: Macmillan's Path to Equitable Cancer Support
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I sit down with Gemma Peters, Chief Executive of Macmillan Cancer Support, on the sidelines of the World Cancer Congress 2024. We delve into Macmillan’s groundbreaking efforts to address inequities in cancer care, exploring how the organization is partnering...
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Shaping Global Cancer Control with Dr. Cary Adams
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, Dr. Paul Adepoju sits down with Dr. Cary Adams, CEO of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), to discuss the transformative role of the World Cancer Congress in global cancer control. They delve into the progress made in cancer prevention, early...
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Inside the 2024 World Malaria Report: Progress, Inequities, and Future Frontiers
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, we dive into the insights and challenges presented in the 2024 World Malaria Report. Joining us is Prof. William Moss, Deputy Director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, who sheds light on the progress made in malaria control over the past two...
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Scaling Solutions: Project ECHO’s Global Impact
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, we explore the transformative impact of Project ECHO, a global initiative that's bridging health inequities by democratizing expertise and empowering underserved communities. Dr. Sanjeev Arora, founder of Project ECHO, shares the powerful story of how a...
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Decentralizing Diagnostics to Close the Healthcare Gap
In this episode of Paul Talks Science, I sit down with Ifeoluwa Dare-Johnson, the inspiring founder and CEO of Healthtracka. Driven by a deeply personal loss, Ifeoluwa shares her journey of transforming grief into action by founding a health tech startup that's revolutionizing diagnostics in...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to "Paul Talks Science," a podcast that journeys into the ever-evolving realms of health, science, and innovation. Hosted by Paul Adepoju, each episode features thought-provoking conversations with experts and trailblazers who are shaping the future of medicine and technology. From groundbreaking research to revolutionary treatments, "Paul Talks Science" delves deep into the stories and ideas that will define tomorrow's world. Join us as we explore the cutting edge, challenge the status quo, and uncover the innovations that hold the promise of a better, healthier future.
HOSTED BY
Paul ADEPOJU, PhD
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Paul Talks Science have?
Paul Talks Science currently has 63 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Paul Talks Science about?
Welcome to "Paul Talks Science," a podcast that journeys into the ever-evolving realms of health, science, and innovation. Hosted by Paul Adepoju, each episode features thought-provoking conversations with experts and trailblazers who are shaping the future of medicine and technology. From...
How often does Paul Talks Science release new episodes?
Paul Talks Science has 63 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Paul Talks Science?
You can listen to Paul Talks 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 Paul Talks Science?
Paul Talks Science is created and hosted by Paul ADEPOJU, PhD.
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