Under the Microscope

Original episode featuring humans: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1XOlKQksRk7hGE3DBmcRO8?si=ab50d3ccf7b14e31

Ever wondered how invisible microbes create biofuels, enzymes, and breakthrough materials? This AI Lab experiment dives into the science of industrial fermentation and bioprocess engineering, revealing how tiny organisms power some of the biggest innovations on the planet.

Inspired by a conversation with Prof. Krist Gernaey (Technical University of Denmark), this episode explores bioreactors, biotechnology, and digital science communication – showing how AI tools are reshaping the way science is shared and understood.

Watch to the full episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5AyHb676TAniPi1jrIiOh7?si=5TevPCQiSKW8CPqKLYGPMw&nd=1&dlsi=41743b05bf864ac2

What does it take to make quantum communication truly secure? In this episode, theoretical physicist Dr. Doris Reiter breaks down the science behind the SUPER project — Swing UP of Quantum EmittER Population — and why it’s a game-changer for quantum light and secure data transfer.

From single photons to the no-cloning theorem, Doris uses vivid analogies (yes, including pool ladders and splashes!) to explain how her team’s breakthrough idea quickly moved from theory to successful experiments in labs worldwide.

🎖️ Doris was recently awarded the Emmy Noether Distinction by the European Physical Society for her outstanding contributions to physics and dedication to gender equality in science.

If you’ve ever wondered how quantum mechanics can help secure your future communication, this episode is for you.

#QuantumPhysics #SciencePodcast #WomenInSTEM #SecureCommunication #TheScienceTalk #EmmyNoetherDistinction #QuantumCommunication

How can we image living brain cells in 3D—without freezing, staining, or harming them? In this episode, physicist and optics innovator Prof. Humeyra Caglayan joins host Dr. Pranoti Kshirsagar to discuss snapshot 3D microscopy—a breakthrough technology combining meta-optics, real-time image reconstruction, and volumetric imaging.

You’ll learn how this method enables fast, non-invasive 3D imaging of living tissues, from zebrafish brains to cardiac cells—opening new frontiers in biomedical imaging, neuroscience, and even surgical diagnostics.

This conversation connects optics, nanotechnology, software, and biology in a powerful interdisciplinary story of innovation.

🎙 A Science Talk original podcast. Discover more: https://thesciencetalk.com

What does it take to scale up industrial processes using tiny living organisms? Pranoti Kshirsagar speaks with Professor Krist Gernaey from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) near Copenhagen about the fascinating world of industrial fermentation. Discover the crucial role of bioreactors and the power of microorganisms in producing everything from sustainable biofuels to essential industrial enzymes. This episode explores the cutting-edge of biotechnology and chemical engineering.
Beyond the technical details, Krist shares insights into his life as a professor at DTU and even touches on his children's amusing perspective on his research! Learn about the collaborative and international nature of modern scientific work in Denmark.
Curious to learn more about the potential of industrial fermentation?
Find key takeaways, interesting anecdotes, and links to explore further in our companion blog post.

How close are we to a future powered by the incredible flexibility of graphene? Pranoti Kshirsagar sits down with Dr. Martin Rejhon, a leading group leader at Charles University in Prague, to unravel his pioneering work in straintronics – manipulating graphene's properties through mechanical strain. Learn about the critical steps towards scalable production and the exciting possibilities for next-generation electronic devices. This episode delves into cutting-edge research in materials science and nanotechnology.
Beyond the scientific breakthroughs, Martin shares his perspective on Prague as a burgeoning center for research and confirms the exciting news: the Nanoscale Science and Technology Forum (NSFE), a key event in nanotechnology, will be held in Prague, Czech Republic, in September 2026!
Want a deeper dive into this fascinating conversation?
Find key highlights, memorable quotes, and links to explore further in our companion blog post.