Science
James Watson, co-discoverer of DNA's double helix, dead at 97
In his later years, Watson's reputation was tarnished by comments on genetics and race that led him to be ostracised by the scientific establishment.
Redundancy bill more than $10m as Callaghan Innovation winds down
More than 180 roles have been lost since November 2023 through the closure of the crown-owned science and innovation entity.
How do we know if our food has been genetically modified?
Changes to our genetic modification laws have our scientists and politicians struggling to agree on a way forward. Over the last few weeks we have been discussing various aspects of the gene tech bill… Audio
Dismantling of climate laws breaks years of cross-party agreement
Governments make grand statements on targets without awkward detail about what we have to do to reach them, write Barry Barton and Jennifer Campion.
Auckland BioSciences expands animal blood operation to Uruguay
Animal-derived serum and plasma from mostly cattle and pig carcasses is used in medical and life science research, including for veterinary vaccines.
Apple Maps find sparks new search for Amelia Earhart’s remains
A chance look through Apple Maps has led to a new expedition to find the remains of famed aviator Amelia Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan. The photo shows what some think is the wing of her… Audio
Preparing for a 'solar storm'
In the depths of the Beehive's bunker, officials have been running a new kind of exercise. Audio
Quakes: Can we predict when the 'big one' will hit?
It's been about 2,600 since New Zealand's last large earthquake of magnitude six or more. Are we 'overdue'? Earthquake geologist Dr Rob Langridge joins Emile to explain. Audio
Infectious disease research gets $75 million funding boost from government
Scientists do not know what the next pandemic will be - or when it will hit - but they are certain about one thing: it is coming.
Chch physicist's examination turns NZ X-ray history on its head
Curiosity about an object mounted on his wall at work has led a medical physicist to uncover evidence challenging New Zealand's x-ray history. Audio
Science with Ezzy Pearson
Science correspondent Ezzy Pearson talks about orcas that have developed a new way of hunting sharks, why men need to exercise more to get the same heart health benefits, and the worst fire in space.
…Is this New Zealand's oldest x-ray?
New Zealand's oldest known surviving x-ray of a frog was taken in September 1896 by a Christchurch school teacher.
Are you taking the correct dosage of paracetamol?
If you're just about to pop a Panadol tablet - you may want to pause first. New research by Auckland University shows many of us are taking too much paracetamol. It found a third of us commonly take… Audio
Research links vaping to rise in smoking rates
New research shows vaping is the likely reason for increasing smoking rates in Maori and Pacifica teens despite claims e-cigarettes help people quit. Otago University Associate professor Andrew Waa… Audio
Should young people take creatine?
It's shown to be safe and effective for adults, but only a few studies have looked into the effects on children and teens.
Forecasters predict warm and wet end to 2025
Earth Sciences New Zealand are reporting an 80% chance of La Niña conditions in its latest Seasonal Climate Outlook for November to January. Chris Brandolino spoke to Morning Report. Audio
The gold clam is here, and multiplying
One small clam spreading in the Waikato River may change the entire ecosystem. How? Sheer numbers.
Useful Science with Bonnie Harrison
Bonnie Harrison is here guiding us through the latest weird and useful headlines from the world of science. Audio
Dr Jeremy Lockwood: Dinosaur hunter
After nearly thirty years as a GP, Dr Jeremy Lockwood hung up his stethoscope and started hunting dinosaurs - swapping human anatomy for ancient bones. Audio
Brown, blue, green or something in between - what determines eye colour?
Brown is by far the most common shade of iris, while green is the rarest of them all.