Best Large Hadron Collider Podcasts (2025)

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The Science of the Large Hadron Collider 12:21

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26d ago12:21

12:21

Ireland has finally joined CERN as an associate member, opening the doors of the world’s biggest scientific instrument to Irish researchers for the first time. And what a machine to step into. This week, Professor Luke takes us deep inside the Large Hadron Collider — the 27-kilometre, super-cooled, magnet-driven particle racetrack buried under the …

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The Science of the Hangover 14:55

5d ago14:55

14:55

It’s that time of year when the big nights out collide with the biological reality of the morning after… and Professor Luke is here to explain exactly what’s going on in your head, your liver and your rattled nervous system. Hangovers are ancient — literally. Chimps get tipsy on fermented fruit, so our ancestors were drinking alcohol millions of ye…

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The Science of Haemochromatosis 17:05

12d ago17:05

17:05

This week, Professor Luke dives into a condition that affects Ireland more than almost anywhere else on Earth: haemochromatosis, the iron-overload disorder sometimes dubbed “the Celtic disease”. And we owe this one to two listeners, Kayden and Kari, who emailed Luke asking him to shine a light on it. Here’s the remarkable thing: 1 in 83 Irish peopl…

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The Science of Cancer and the Immune System 13:51

19d ago13:51

13:51

This week, Professor Luke digs into one of the biggest questions in cancer research: how to train the immune system to hunt tumours. Immunotherapy already works in cancers like melanoma and lung cancer — but only 20–30% of patients respond. A major new study in Nature Medicine may shift that. It tracked more than a thousand patients and found that …

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7: A Final Moment for the Muon 35:10

1M ago35:10

35:10

Guests Fred Gray , Professor of Physics at Regis University, Muon g-2 Experiment Claudia Cornella, CERN Theory Research Fellow Simon Kuberski, Marie Sklodowska-Curie Theory Research Fellow at CERN Contributors Host: Steven Goldfarb Editor & Producer: Melanie Arnold Executive Producer: Jacques Fichet Ron Suykerbuyk: Technical Lead Sound Engineering:…

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The Science of Seasonal Affective Disorder 12:50

1M ago12:50

12:50

Why do so many of us feel the gloom set in when the clocks go back and the days get short? In this week’s podcast, Luke O’Neill delves into the biology of Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, a form of depression that appears in winter and lifts again when the light returns. First identified about fifty years ago in northern Europe, SAD affects aro…

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The Science of Cellulitis 15:21

1M ago15:21

15:21

This week, Professor Luke O’Neill turns his microscope to a condition he knows all too well — cellulitis. It’s one of the most common bacterial infections there is, affecting about one in every 500 people each year. The skin turns red, swollen, and sore, and you might even feel flu-ish as your immune system fights back. Left untreated, it can spira…

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The Science of Hallowe’en 18:20

2M ago18:20

18:20

This week, Show Me The Science gets a little darker — and a little stranger. Professor Luke O’Neill dives into the science of Hallowe’en, tracing its roots back to the Celtic festival of Samhain, the ancient Irish celebration marking the start of winter — that “dead time” when the veil between worlds was said to thin. It’s not about ghosts and ghou…

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The Science of Regulatory T Cells 14:16

2M ago14:16

14:16

Ever wondered what keeps your immune system in check when it starts misbehaving? On this week’s podcast, Professor Luke O’Neill explains the world of regulatory T cells—the immune system’s very own “military police.” These tiny guardians stop other cells from attacking the body, helping prevent autoimmune diseases and keeping us healthy. Luke takes…

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The Science of Performance Enhancing Drugs 15:09

2M ago15:09

15:09

An Irish Olympian has decided to take a bold and controversial leap. Swimmer Shane Ryan has retired from conventional competition to join the Enhanced Games, a new event where athletes will be allowed to use performance-enhancing drugs. In this week’s podcast, Professor Luke O’Neill looks at the science and the ethics behind this radical sporting e…

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The Science of Accents 15:19

2M ago15:19

15:19

Taylor Swift has changed her accent over the years – and science can prove it. A quirky new study from the University of Minnesota analysed hours of Swift interviews to show how her voice shifted depending on what era she was in. For Professor Luke O’Neill, it’s the perfect excuse to dive into one of his favourite subjects: accents and dialects. Fr…

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The Science of Phage 15:35

2M ago15:35

15:35

They look like alien spacecrafts under a microscope, but bacteriophages — viruses that infect and kill bacteria — could hold the key to one of the biggest medical challenges of our time: antibiotic resistance. First described more than a century ago, phages became a hot topic of research in the mid-20th century, especially in the Soviet Union, befo…

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The Science of Extinction 15:24

3M ago15:24

15:24

Earth has always been a planet of comebacks. Life has thrived, collapsed, and reinvented itself in astonishing ways. Scientists call the five great wipe-outs of the past the “Big Five” – huge mass extinctions that reset the clock on life. Without them, we wouldn’t even be here to talk about it. This week, Luke O’Neill dives into what these extincti…

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The Science of Breast Milk 14:50

3M ago14:50

14:50

Breast milk is often called “nature’s first vaccine” and, in this week's podcast, Luke O’Neill explains why. From the moment a baby is born, its immune system is still immature and wide open to infection. Breast milk steps in as the baby’s first line of defence, passing on antibodies, immune cells and even the benefits of vaccines the mother has re…

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The Science of Type-1 Diabetes 17:22

3M ago17:22

17:22

Professor Luke O’Neill dives into the science behind Type-1 Diabetes for this week's podcast, answering a question from listener Sarah. Luke explains the key differences between Type-1 and other forms of diabetes, guiding us through the early symptoms—intense thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, vision issues, and nausea—an…

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The Science of Speech-making 14:55

3M ago14:55

14:55

Why do some speeches stick in your mind while others fade before the applause ends? In this unusual episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke O’Neill swaps the lab for the lectern to reveal the science of captivating public speaking. Drawing on decades of experience addressing audiences from classrooms to conferences, Luke shares his top tips …

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The Science of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 18:17

4M ago18:17

18:17

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) - has long baffled doctors and patients alike. It leaves people with crushing fatigue, brain fog, pain, sleep disturbance and a body that just won’t bounce back after even mild exertion. For too many sufferers, it’s meant years of being dismissed, neglected, or told it was all …

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The Science of Stem Cells 20:09

4M ago20:09

20:09

This week, Luke rolls up his sleeves to tackle a listener request from Danny and Caroline. Caroline’s living with osteoarthritis, so stem cells seemed like just the ticket for discussion. We start with the basics: stem cells are the body’s precursors, the young all-rounders that can grow into brain neurons, cartilage-makers, or insulin-producing pa…

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The Science of Male Contraception 16:23

4M ago16:23

16:23

In this lively episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke O’Neill gets into a topic that has been… well, a very long time coming: male contraception. While women have had the contraceptive pill since the 1960s, giving them control over their reproductive choices (and giving men, frankly, an easy ride), the search for a safe, reliable male birth…

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The Science of Listeria 14:58

4M ago14:58

14:58

In this episode, suggested by listener Barbara Douglas, Luke dives into a timely and important topic: listeria, the bacteria behind a recent outbreak in Ireland that led to recalls of ready meals and salad products by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. One person has sadly died and nine others have been affected by listeriosis, the illness cause…

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The Science of Crowds 13:05

5M ago13:05

13:05

What happens to our brains and bodies when we gather with thousands of strangers at music festivals, concerts, or gigs? This week, as All Together Now kicks off in Curraghmore, County Waterford, Professor Luke O’Neill dives into the fascinating science of crowd behaviour – and why being part of a crowd can feel so good, or sometimes so dangerous. H…

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The Science of Tech Bros 15:21

5M ago15:21

15:21

In this week's podcast, Professor Luke O’Neill dives into the fascinating world of tech billionaires and their obsession with extending human life. He takes a closer look at four high-profile figures—Larry Page, Peter Thiel, Brian Johnson, and Jack Dorsey—and explores their personal and financial investments in the science of longevity. From bizarr…

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The Science of Hayfever 18:30

5M ago18:30

18:30

As Ireland basks in an unusual spell of hot weather, many are dealing with another less-welcome side effect of summer: hayfever. In this week’s episode of Show Me the Science, Professor Luke O’Neill unpacks the biology behind this common allergic reaction and explains the science that’s literally in the air. Luke explores what hayfever actually is …

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The Science Of The Shingles Vaccine 13:25

5M ago13:25

13:25

In this week’s episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke tackles a topic that has been requested: the shingles vaccine. Recent studies suggest that getting vaccinated not only decreases your risk of shingles but might also reduce the chances of developing dementia by 20% for those over 50. Luke dives into how the shingles vaccine works, explai…

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The Science Of The Manopause 12:06

6M ago12:06

12:06

In this week's episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke dives into the intriguing topic of "manopause." Is there really a parallel transition for men similar to women's menopause? Luke explores the scientific evidence behind the fatigue, depression, and libido changes reported by many men in their middle years. He juxtaposes this with the wel…

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The Science Of Coffee 17:42

6M ago17:42

17:42

In this caffeinated episode of Show Me The Science, Luke dives into the fascinating world of coffee! From its rich history to its surprising health benefits, discover why this beloved brew has captured the hearts—and minds—of millions. Luke explores the science behind caffeine and how it keeps us alert by blocking adenosine in the brain. He unpacks…

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221. The Science Of Magnesium 12:04

6M ago12:04

12:04

In this episode of Show Me The Science, Professor Luke delves into the intriguing relationship between magnesium and sleep, sparked by a listener's request. Is there any truth to the claims that magnesium supplements can help you catch some Zs? Luke explores the essential role of magnesium in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body and how it affe…

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220. The Science Of A.I 11:57

6M ago11:57

11:57

In this episode, Professor Luke dives into the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. From cutting-edge research to practical applications, the breakthroughs in AI are not only fascinating but potentially transformative. Discover how innovative tools like the 'co-scientist' AI could revolutionize scientific collaboration, and explore th…

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219. The Science Of Revision 13:06

6M ago13:06

13:06

In this week’s episode, Luke O'Neill dives into the fascinating science of revision just in time for the leaving cert exams! Discover essential tips to improve your study techniques and enhance your exam performance, whether you’re cramming or preparing ahead. Luke shares scientifically backed strategies, from the importance of planning and taking …

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218. The Science Of Snake Venom 15:08

7M ago15:08

15:08

Thanks to St Patrick, we’re fine here in Ireland… However, around the world there are 140,000 deaths per year due to snake bites! New research has shown that a universal treatment for snake bites may soon be possible. How has an 18-year hobby of keeping pet snakes, turned into the basis for a universal anti-venom? This is episode 218 - The Science …

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217. The Science Of Overindulgence 14:23

7M ago14:23

14:23

Over drinking, smoking and lack of exercise can cause major damage from an early age. Luke takes a look at what this does to our body & why we are less able to deal with it all as we get older. Lets dive in and find out how does overindulgence affect out Metal & physical health…

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216. The Science Of Urine 14:39

7M ago14:39

14:39

We all know what it is, but why is this a fascinating subject to science? What is the urea cycle? How do we clear out the toxins? And why is the color so important? Welcome to episode 216: The Science Of Urine

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215. The Science Of Lab Grown Meat 12:30

7M ago12:30

12:30

After recent new discoveries, Luke looks at The Science of Lab Grown Meat. You can now buy lab grown meat in pet food, but will it soon be in the shops for human consumption? Why is there massive investment in this new industry? And how is this lab grown meat saving the planet?

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214. The Science Of Motor Neurone Disease 16:46

8M ago16:46

16:46

A very import request in this week, from Shane Conway. Shane’s mother has sadly passed away from Motor Neurone Disease. Such an important topic, so this week Luke looks at The Science of Motor Neurone Disease…

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213. The Science Of Coeliac Disease 17:49

8M ago17:49

17:49

This week, it’s a request from Sean, in which he asks Luke to look at the Science Of Coeliac Disease. Lets dive in and look at how this family of proteins i.e. gluten can cause pain to the small intestine. Why does the immune system over react in response to gluten? 1 in 100 people in Ireland have been diagnosed with it, but how can science help? T…

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212. The Science Of Vaping 12:12

8M ago12:12

12:12

It’s getting banned in different parts of the world, so this week Luke looks at the science behind vaping… What does the science tell us about vapes? What chemical is causing the most damage? And are they less risky than smoking cigarettes?

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6: Tangled Up in Quarks 34:17

8M ago34:17

34:17

In this special episode celebrating the United Nations' International Year of Quantum Science and Technology and World Quantum Day, we dive into the mysterious world of quantum entanglement—this time, at the scale of top quarks. Join us as we speak with Giulia Negro (CMS Experiment, Purdue University) and Yoav Afik (ATLAS Experiment, University of …

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211. The Science Of The European Research Council 13:56

8M ago13:56

13:56

Welcome to Episode 211 of The Science Of The Science. This week Luke looks at the European Research Council. What type of funding do they provide? Why is it important, particularly with the current state of science finding in America? And how can it help us here in Ireland?

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210. The Science Of Genetic Testing 13:30

9M ago13:30

13:30

Genetic testing company 23andme has gone Bankrupt. 15 million people have used this service to get their DNA analyzed. If you’re one of those users, should you delete your information from their website? If 23andme is bought, will your information be sold as part of it? This week it’s genetic testing in relation to 23andme.…

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209. The Sciences Of Organs 15:05

9M ago15:05

15:05

This week, its all about organs aging at different rates in the human body, Using new mass spectrometry technology, scientists have discovered new information about aging organs. So dive into episode 209 of Show Me The Science.

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208. The Science Of Moisturisers 15:12

9M ago15:12

15:12

Welcome to episode 208 - The Science Of Moisturisers... What's inside these creams? Why do some work, and other don't? And does a higher price tag really mean that it's more effective? Lets dive in and take a look at the Science Of Skin Moisturisers.

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207. The Science Of Long Covid 14:59

9M ago14:59

14:59

Request time - And this week it comes from David. It’s hard to believe it’s five years on, since the start of the Covid 19 pandemic. Its been reported that 400 Million people world-wide are suffering with Long Covid. And there are 200 different symptoms. So, let’s dive in and take a look at The Science Of Long Covid.…

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206. The Science of Microplastics 13:23

9M ago13:23

13:23

Time for another Request, and this weeks its The Science of Microplastics. Is this issue getting worse? What damage have Microplastics caused in recent years? How are they affecting the human brain? And could microplastics be irritating cells, leading to auto immune diseases? Lets dive into episode 206 - The Science of Microplastics…

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205. The Science of The Origin To Life On Earth 15:37

10M ago15:37

15:37

It's time for a request, and this week it comes from Brian. Welcome to The Science of The Origin To Life On Earth Lets go back 4.3 Billion years ago and find out how life emerged? Did an asteroids seed the earth? Let dig into The Science of The Origin To Life On Earth.

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204. The Science Of Extreme Weather 15:33

10M ago15:33

15:33

Across the world, January was the hottest month ever since climate measuring started. Lets look at those records, see how things have changed and we'll look at the science of global warming. Welcome to Episode 204 The Science Of Extreme Weather...

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203. The Science Of How Covid Has Changed 13:50

10M ago13:50

13:50

It's 5 years since a new virus jumped from bats, into humans... And so the Covid Pandemic was born. How had the virus changed over the last five years? And how has our immune system learned to eliminate the virus?

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202. The Science Of Trust In Scientists 17:08

10M ago17:08

17:08

After a major study across 68 countries, the question was asked "Do you have trust in scientists?" So, lets dive in & find out if the public has faith in scientists. Where does Ireland rank on the list? And which Country has the least amount of trust?

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5: Exploring matter–antimatter asymmetry with LHCb 34:57

10M ago34:57

34:57

Why does our universe seem to be made almost entirely of matter, with barely any antimatter in sight? Join us as we dive in this podcast episode of Early Morning Coffee at CERN (Emc2) into the fascinating world of LHCb, the LHC's beauty experiment, with two leading experimentalists, Yasmine Amhis and Patrick Koppenburg. We explore how the LHCb expe…

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201. The Science Of Digital Twins 19:04

11M ago19:04

19:04

Can you imagine having a twin? Who will look like you, sound like you and even have your DNA... but Digital. How are engineers making virtual versions or us, and using our digital data to test our limits, run trials and more. Welcome to Episode 201... The Science Of Digital Twins

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200. The Science Of Hibernation 12:43

11M ago12:43

12:43

It's time to settle down, as we look at the fascinating phenomenon, hibernation. What happens during hibernation? What can we learn? And how could this be useful for astronauts in deep space? Buckle up and join us on this sleepy journey...