Podcast: Debating vaccines, LGBTQ+ history month, and humans of health research

In this edition: A scientist countering vaccine misinformation, members of Imperial’s LGBTQ+ network, and the people behind an impactful asthma trial.

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News: Yeast mini-factories and inspiration from nature – We learn about researchers who have engineered yeast to act like mini factories producing dementia drug compounds, and engineers who have taken inspiration from insect wings and shark skin to create materials that pop bacteria and reduce drag.

Primetime COVID vaccine debate – We catch up with Professor Robin Shattock following his appearance on Question Time countering COVID-19 vaccine misinformation, hearing how he decides when to engage with sceptics and the best techniques for doing so.

LGBT+ history month – We meet Ji Young Yoon and Josh Hodge from Imperial 600, the College's network for LGBTQ+ staff, postgraduate students and their allies. We talk about what LGBT+ history month means to them, who some of their heroes are, and what issues could be tackled next.

You can also listen to an extended version of this interview and the community Spotify playlist.

Humans of health research – We meet Jilly Ellis and Cielito Caneja, who participated in a research trial for a severe asthma treatment, as patient and Research Nurse Practitioner, respectively. We talk about why each got involved in the research, how it felt to reunite for a new photography project, and what they hope people take away from their stories.

You can also listen to an extended version of this interview.

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The podcast is presented by Gareth Mitchell, a lecturer on Imperial's MSc Science Communication course and the presenter of Digital Planet on the BBC World Service, with contributions from our roving reporters in the Communications and Public Affairs Division.