Genomics podcasts

Nature staff discuss an AI tool for assessing the effects of nine billion human genetic mutations, followed by research challenging assumptions about Bunsen burners and contamination near laboratory work areas. This episode is part of Nature Podcast’s Briefing Chat series and is available from the publisher on Acast.

Vincent Racaniello, Kathy Spindler and Brianne Barker discuss research using generative AI to design complete bacteriophage genomes, including reported viable phages active against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. They also examine a study linking recombinant shingles vaccination with lower cardiovascular-event risk. The discussion connects genome modelling, experimental virology and vaccine research, alongside listener letters and weekly selections.

Hosted by Vincent Racaniello, Brianne Barker

Clio Karageorgiou discusses structural variation and the research brought together in a Heredity special issue. The episode provides a focused introduction to changes in genome structure and their importance for understanding genetic diversity.

Recorded live in Gothenburg, the discussion examines barriers to genetics professions and ways to design inclusive education, research and clinical services. Hosts Mariangels Ferrer Duch and Ramona Moldovan join Lucinda Freeman, Sasha Henriques, Lili Milani and Jerome del Picchia to explore equitable participation in genomics, patient and community involvement, and professional organisations’ role in widening access.

Hosted by Mariangels Ferrer Duch, Ramona Moldovan

Portia Wong and Paolo Momigliano discuss population-genetic research on pangolins and its relevance to the illegal wildlife trade. The episode connects genomic evidence with conservation questions and the challenges of tracing threatened wildlife populations.

Mariana Kneppers, Mason Wakley and Neil Withers discuss two questions about genetic information. They examine AlphaGenome, a machine learning model designed to predict molecular effects of DNA variants across long sequences, and consider its potential use in genetics research. The episode then turns to the RNA world hypothesis: the proposal that RNA-based systems preceded DNA genomes and cells during the early history of life. The discussion links contemporary tools for studying the genome with chemical questions about life's beginnings.

Hosted by Mariana Kneppers

Katie Lotterhos discusses a survey of the effects of US policy changes on ecology, evolution, marine and environmental research. The conversation then turns to oysters as a system for studying local adaptation and the genomic vulnerability of populations facing environmental change.

Hosted by Marty Martin, Cameron Ghalambor