Shirtloads of Science

Science in Oz: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly with Dr. Catherine Ball (452)

In this episode, futurist and award-winning scientist Dr Catherine Ball dives into the state of science in Australia, uncovering the good, the bad, and the overlooked. From humanoid robotics and wearable exoskeletons transforming healthcare, to Australia's lagging space economy, Ball offers an unflinching look at where we stand. She also highlights world-class cancer detection research happening in Australia, like PROCAN and early ovarian cancer screening innovations that deserve far more recognition. Passionate about inspiring the next generation, Ball shares her advice for young Australians ready to shape the future of science ww.drcatherineball.com/ [https://www.drcatherineball.com/]

Food Additives: What's Safe, What's Not? with Prof. Clare Collins (451)

In this episode, I'm joined by Professor Clare Collins, Australian dietitian and Professor of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Newcastle. Clare is my go-to expert when it comes to all things nutrition, and today she's here to unpack the often confusing world of processed and ultra-processed foods. We dive into what really separates the two, explore the role of additives, emulsifiers, and flavour enhancers, and discuss how some of these ingredients, designed to make foods more appealing, may be doing our health more harm than good. Plus, she shares practical, no-nonsense tips to help you make smarter choices next time you're wandering the grocery aisles. Check out Clare's free online resource, No Money No Time, for simple, budget-friendly recipes and nutrition advice - nomoneynotime.com.au/ [https://nomoneynotime.com.au/] Follow Clare on X: @ProfCCollins [https://twitter.com/ProfCCollins] and LinkedIn: Clare Collins.

Innovative Nanotechnology for Cancer Detection with Dr. Renee Goreham (450)

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Renee Goreham, a physicist and nanotechnologist at the University of Newcastle, and passionate science communicator. Renee is an experimental physicist exploring how our breath could hold the key to detecting lung cancer early—by identifying specific proteins as biomarkers. We also delve into her PhD student's exciting research into a new red-light laser diagnostic tool for breast cancer. Along the way, Renee breaks down the basics of cell biology and shares her inspiring, non-linear journey through physics, nanotech, and beyond. A brilliant example of multidisciplinary science in action. Follow Renee on TikTok: @dr_renee_goreham

Gene Therapy & Rare Diseases with Assoc. Prof Leszek Lisowski (449)

In this episode, we speak with Associate Professor Leszek Lisowski, Head of the Translational Vectorology Unit at the Children's Medical Research Institute (CMRI), about the cutting-edge world of gene therapy. He explains how viral vectors are engineered to deliver life-saving treatments for rare genetic diseases - many of which are so uncommon, they're only known by the name of the affected gene. Despite being often overlooked, genetic diseases impact 10% of adults and 30% of children in hospitals. Leszek sheds light on the challenges of diagnosis, the promise of emerging genetic testing, and how his work is paving the way for more accurate, effective therapies. Linkedin: Children's Medical Research Institute, Leszek Lisowski Facebook: @jeansforgenes Instagram: @jeansforgenesau

The Brain's Energy Bill: From Childhood to Old Age with Assoc. Prof Sharna Jamadar (448)

In this episode, we're joined by Associate Professor Sharna Jamadar, a cognitive neuroscientist at Monash University, to explore how the brain uses energy, and how that changes across the lifespan. Did you know that a 10-year-old's brain uses over 50% of the body's total energy, compared to just 20% in adults? We dive into why younger brains work harder, the role of synaptic pruning and proliferation, and how the brain's organisation impacts cognitive efficiency. We also touch on the importance of glucose metabolism and its connection to age-related disorders like Alzheimer's. A fascinating look at the energy demands of our most complex organ! Bluesky: @SharnaJamadar Linkedin: Sharna Jamadar www.sharnajamadar.com [http://www.sharnajamadar.com] Email: Sharna.jamadar@monash.edu