Podcast: Life as a postdoc, reading brain age and sounding out scientists

In this edition: Finding out what every postdoc needs to know, how old your brain is, and how an Imperial researcher made an award-winning podcast.

The podcast is presented by Gareth Mitchell, a lecturer on Imperial's Science Communication MSc course and the presenter of Click Radio on the BBC World Service, with contributions from our roving reporters.

Download the complete podcast (mp3)

OR LISTEN TO INDIVIDUAL CHAPTERS

News: The impact of universal healthcare and playing with proteins – We discuss a study looking into how universal healthcare has reduced inequality in Brazil, and try out a mobile game designed around the problem of proteins.

What every postdoc needs to know – We chat to the authors of a new book exploring the challenges and opportunities of postdoc life, and get their top tips for thriving in the position.

How old is your brain? – Is your brain older than you are? Research from the Department of Medicine suggests some people’s health can be linked to an older-looking brain as they age, and say MRI scans could help to spot who might be at increased risk of poor health and dying earlier.

Sounding out scientists – Imperial postdoc Stuart Higgins recently won the ‘interview podcast’ category at the inaugural British Podcast Awards. We find out what makes his podcast about the scientists themselves, not their science, so intriguing.

Join our focus group!

Calling all Imperial College Podcast listeners! We need you.

We are always keen to hear feedback on how we can make the podcast even better for our listeners. With that in mind, this summer we’ll be carrying out a series of focus groups with our listeners to learn more about what they like, what they would like to hear more of, and also about their podcast listening habits in general.

If you would be available to take part in a focus group - either in person or over the phone - we would love to hear from you. Just drop us an email at socialmedia@imperial.ac.uk