Cool Science Radio

Utah State Paleontologist Dr. Jim Kirkland and Assistant State Paleontologist Don DeBlieux discuss a newly opened dinosaur excavation site near Moab that could help scientists understand the transition from the Jurassic to the Cretaceous. The site may also contain a new species of armored dinosaur.

Geneticist Dr. Turi King tells how DNA helped identify the remains of King Richard III after 500 years and shares other fascinating stories in her new book, “The Secrets of Our DNA.”

Dr. Shannon Boomgarden, Natural History Museum of Utah archaeologist and University of Utah instructor, previews ScienceFest, a new two-day festival featuring hands-on activities, live science demonstrations, research talks and opportunities to meet scientists at the NHMU.

Dr. Aarron Atkinson-Toal explores the psychology and neuroscience behind consumer behavior, revealing how marketing, emotions, personality and social influence shape our spending habits. He discusses his book "Influenced: The Science of Why We Buy" and the hidden factors that guide everyday purchasing decisions.

Powder Watts co-founders Thomas Clardy and Kai Kuck discuss how smart heat tape technology is helping reduce energy use and support power grids. They share the company's progress, its work with Utah utilities and how incentives can help homeowners and businesses save energy.

Mathematician Arthur Benjamin explores how math can reveal winning strategies for games and puzzles, from Wordle and Sudoku to casino games. He discusses his book "How to Win" and how mathematical thinking can help people make smarter decisions beyond the game board.

Former CIA senior executive Steve Hirsch discusses how intelligence professionals assess emerging threats, from biological risks and food security to cyberattacks and artificial intelligence. He explores how leaders can make sound decisions amid uncertainty and prepare for crises that could affect national security.

University of Utah astrophysicist Grace Telford discusses new Hubble Space Telescope findings that reveal unexpectedly weak stellar winds in some of the universe's most metal-poor stars. The research could help explain how the earliest galaxies formed and evolved.

Orthopedic spine surgeon Dr. Stefano Sinicropi explores how physicians weigh new evidence, medical imaging and emerging technologies when making decisions about patient care. He discusses chronic pain, AI, regenerative medicine and the challenge of separating promising innovations from technologies that are ready for clinical use.

Mark Shelhamer, former chief scientist of NASA's Human Research Program, explores the physical, psychological and engineering challenges of sending humans to Mars. He discusses what we still need to learn about long-duration spaceflight and how preparing for the journey could improve healthcare on Earth.