Top Science & Research Podcasts

Science and research podcasts offer an accessible way to explore groundbreaking discoveries, innovative research, and thought-provoking discussions on a wide range of scientific topics. Whether you’re a curious listener, a researcher, or someone working in the scientific community, these podcasts provide valuable insights into the world of science and its impact on our daily lives.

This list of the Top Science & Research Podcasts covers various topics, including space exploration, biology, physics, environmental science, and more. These podcasts feature interviews with scientists, discussions on recent studies, and deep dives into some of the most exciting developments in the scientific world.

Explore the top 20 podcasts below and stay informed about the latest in science and research.

🎧 Top 20 Science & Research Podcasts

1. Science Vs

  • URL: https://gimletmedia.com/shows/science-vs
  • Host: Wendy Zukerman
  • Show Details: Bi-weekly episodes exploring popular topics and myths through scientific research.
  • Description: Wendy Zukerman pits facts against fads and fiction, investigating common misconceptions through a lens of science.
  • Since: 2016
  • Additional Info: Great for those interested in debunking myths with evidence-based research.

2. The Infinite Monkey Cage

  • URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00snr0w
  • Host: Brian Cox & Robin Ince
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes blending science and comedy, with discussions about physics, biology, and more.
  • Description: Brian and Robin explore scientific topics in an entertaining format, making complex concepts accessible and fun.
  • Since: 2009
  • Additional Info: Perfect for science enthusiasts who enjoy a humorous take on research.

3. StarTalk Radio

  • URL: https://www.startalkradio.net/
  • Host: Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes focusing on space, astronomy, and the latest in astrophysics.
  • Description: Neil deGrasse Tyson brings the universe to your ears, blending science, pop culture, and humor in conversations about the cosmos.
  • Since: 2009
  • Additional Info: Ideal for anyone fascinated by space and the universe.

4. Stuff You Should Know

  • URL: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/105-stuff-you-should-know-26940277/
  • Host: Josh Clark & Charles W. “Chuck” Bryant
  • Show Details: Bi-weekly episodes covering a wide range of scientific topics and interesting facts.
  • Description: Josh and Chuck explain how everyday things work, diving into the science behind topics ranging from brain chemistry to volcanoes.
  • Since: 2008
  • Additional Info: Great for those who enjoy learning random but fascinating facts.

5. The Life Scientific

  • URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b015sqc7
  • Host: Jim Al-Khalili
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes where leading scientists discuss their research and personal journeys.
  • Description: Jim interviews notable scientists, delving into their work, what drives them, and their scientific contributions.
  • Since: 2011
  • Additional Info: Ideal for those interested in the stories behind scientific research.

6. The Naked Scientists

  • URL: https://www.thenakedscientists.com/
  • Host: Chris Smith
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes that explore scientific breakthroughs, medical advancements, and global issues.
  • Description: Chris and his team of scientists break down complex topics into easy-to-understand discussions, often with live Q&A sessions.
  • Since: 2001
  • Additional Info: Perfect for those who want to stay up-to-date on scientific breakthroughs.

7. Science Friday

  • URL: https://www.sciencefriday.com/
  • Host: Ira Flatow
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes that explore current topics in science, research, and technology.
  • Description: Ira interviews top scientists and researchers about the latest discoveries and trends in science.
  • Since: 1991
  • Additional Info: Great for staying updated on the latest scientific news.

8. Brains On!

  • URL: https://www.brainson.org/
  • Host: Molly Bloom
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes for curious kids and adults that explore science topics with fun and engaging explanations.
  • Description: Molly answers science questions from kids in a lively, entertaining, and educational format.
  • Since: 2014
  • Additional Info: Ideal for young listeners and families interested in learning about science together.

9. The Curious Cases of Rutherford & Fry

  • URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07dx75g
  • Host: Dr. Adam Rutherford & Dr. Hannah Fry
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes investigating listeners’ science questions with in-depth research and explanations.
  • Description: Adam and Hannah take a fun, investigative approach to answering curious scientific questions from listeners.
  • Since: 2016
  • Additional Info: Great for listeners who enjoy scientific problem-solving.

10. 60-Second Science

  • URL: https://www.scientificamerican.com/podcast/60-second-science/
  • Host: Scientific American
  • Show Details: Daily, bite-sized episodes on the latest science news and research in under 60 seconds.
  • Description: Short and sweet, these episodes offer quick summaries of current science news.
  • Since: 2006
  • Additional Info: Perfect for those with little time who want to stay informed on scientific developments.

11. Orbital Path

  • URL: https://www.orbitalpathpodcast.com/
  • Host: Dr. Michelle Thaller
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes exploring space science and the wonders of the universe.
  • Description: Dr. Thaller takes listeners on a journey through the cosmos, covering everything from black holes to space exploration.
  • Since: 2015
  • Additional Info: Ideal for space enthusiasts looking for deeper scientific discussions.

12. Ologies

  • URL: https://www.alieward.com/ologies
  • Host: Alie Ward
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes featuring interviews with experts from various scientific fields, known as “ologists.”
  • Description: Alie Ward interviews experts across numerous disciplines, from entomology to volcanology, making science fun and accessible.
  • Since: 2017
  • Additional Info: Great for those looking to learn about a wide range of scientific fields in an entertaining way.

13. The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe

  • URL: https://www.theskepticsguide.org/
  • Host: Dr. Steven Novella
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes exploring science, skepticism, and critical thinking.
  • Description: Dr. Novella and his team discuss scientific claims, pseudoscience, and how to think critically about the world.
  • Since: 2005
  • Additional Info: Perfect for those interested in debunking myths and exploring science with a skeptical lens.

14. Big Picture Science

  • URL: https://bigpicturescience.org/
  • Host: Seth Shostak & Molly Bentley
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes exploring scientific discoveries, technological innovations, and the search for extraterrestrial life.
  • Description: Seth and Molly discuss everything from AI to astrobiology, diving into the biggest questions in science.
  • Since: 2002
  • Additional Info: Great for those with a curiosity about space and technology.

15. Science Diction

  • URL: https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/science-diction
  • Host: Johanna Mayer
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes about the origin of scientific words and phrases, blending etymology and science history.
  • Description: Johanna explores the fascinating stories behind scientific terms and concepts in an educational and engaging format.
  • Since: 2020
  • Additional Info: Perfect for word nerds and science buffs alike.

16. Radiolab

  • URL: https://www.wnycstudios.org/shows/radiolab
  • Host: Jad Abumrad & Lulu Miller
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes covering a wide range of topics, from science and philosophy to culture and history.
  • Description: Radiolab blends storytelling with scientific exploration, offering listeners a unique look at the world around us.
  • Since: 2002
  • Additional Info: Ideal for those who enjoy in-depth explorations of science through narrative storytelling.

17. Science Weekly

  • URL: https://www.theguardian.com/science/series/science
  • Host: Ian Sample
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes discussing the latest scientific research and discoveries from around the world.
  • Description: Ian Sample and his team explore recent scientific studies and breakthroughs in a variety of fields.
  • Since: 2006
  • Additional Info: Great for staying updated on the latest scientific news.

18. Planetary Radio

  • URL: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio
  • Host: Mat Kaplan
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes focused on space exploration, astronomy, and the search for life beyond Earth.
  • Description: Mat Kaplan interviews scientists, engineers, and astronauts about the latest developments in space science.
  • Since: 2002
  • Additional Info: Ideal for space lovers and astronomy enthusiasts.

19. Science Focus Podcast

  • URL: https://www.sciencefocus.com/podcast/
  • Host: The team at BBC Science Focus
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes covering a variety of scientific topics, from psychology to quantum physics.
  • Description: The BBC Science Focus team interviews top scientists and discusses the latest developments in science and technology.
  • Since: 2018
  • Additional Info: Perfect for those wanting a broad overview of current scientific research.

20. The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week

  • URL: https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/a22793818/weirdest-thing-i-learned-this-week/
  • Host: Popular Science Editors
  • Show Details: Weekly episodes sharing bizarre and fascinating science facts and stories.
  • Description: The hosts share the strangest, weirdest, and most intriguing things they’ve learned from the world of science each week.
  • Since: 2018
  • Additional Info: Ideal for those who enjoy quirky and fun science facts.

Join the Conversation

Science is an ever-evolving field, and these podcasts provide an exciting way to keep up with the latest discoveries, innovations, and thought-provoking discussions. We encourage you to subscribe to these podcasts, share your favorite episodes, and leave reviews to help others find valuable content. Whether you’re a professional scientist, a student, or a curious listener, these podcasts will keep you informed and inspired by the wonders of science.

If you have recommendations for other science or research podcasts that should be included in this list, or if you’re looking for personalized suggestions, feel free to reach out. Be sure to check back as we continue to update and expand our list of the Top Science & Research Podcasts.

Thank you for visiting our podcast directory—let’s continue exploring the wonders of science together!