Level Up Human

Simon and Rach consider listener suggestions for human body improvements. This week, adjustable digestive tracts, floral farts, and retractable testicles. In the newsElon Musk’s baby: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-52557291Ocean warming: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2242786-a-japanese-nuclear-power-plant-created-a-habitat-for-tropical-fish/Golden tongue: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-52683468Wound healing blue-green algae: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2243352-wound-healing-patch-of-blue-green-algae-mends-skin-quickly/Listener suggestions@TraceyH100 - retractable breasts and testicles@KJames_IntBio - a pause button for the digestive tract@sheencr - floral fartsCheck out…In mice twitter account: https://twitter.com/justsaysinmiceKangaroos penis and testicles the other way round: https://grist.org/animals/kangaroo-genitals-are-weirder-than-you-ever-thought-possible-2/Face lice with no anuses: https://www.livescience.com/65533-your-face-mites-never-poop.htmlMiracle berry: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synsepalum_dulcificumClare Jonas’s blog article: https://www.thatthinkingfeeling.co.uk/blog/smell-language-difficult-to-describeDoes it fart?: https://amzn.to/2TkflxUSupport usIf you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanLeave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285…and join our newsletter: http://www.leveluphuman.com/keep-in-touch Follow usTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

S2E12: Level Up Human is a podcast on a mission to redesign the human body.Simon and Rach chat to biologist and science YouTuber Sally Le Page and science communicator James Piercy.We discuss periods, expanding skulls and a rebooted ear.In the news Female female aggression in fruit flies: https://bit.ly/LUHfruitfliesThe new kilogram: physicsworld.com/a/new-definition-of-the-kilogram-comes-into-force/Robots powered by the spines of rats: https://bit.ly/LUHRatSpinesThe pitches Sally wants selective ovulation, James wants a skull flap. There’s a suggestion from the audience for One Massive Ear and Simon is borrowing from the opossums which could hold the key to saving snakebite victims.Mentioned this episodeDragons’ Den: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006vq92Lesbian lizard colonies: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Mexico_whiptailParthenogenesis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ParthenogenesisDecompressive craniectomy: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319755Fontanelle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FontanelleBarn owl hearing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SI73-Ka51EOpossum’s natural immunity to snake venom: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/2015/03/150323-opossums-snakes-snakebites-venom-health-world-science/Stay In for Towel Day: https://www.savetherhino.org/get-involved/events/stay-in-for-towel-day-2020/Support usIf you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanLeave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285…or join our newsletter: http://www.leveluphuman.com/keep-in-touchWith thanks to the Physiological Society. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rach consider regeneration. Humans are pretty rubbish at it. Some lizards, newts and salamanders are INCREDIBLE at it. How do we get it, and would we really want to? Check out…The Shining: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081505/THAT tweet: https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1256239815256797184Bee sniffing tech: https://phys.org/news/2010-03-bee-sniffing-technology-dangerous-vapors.htmlFaceTime some Japanese eels: https://www.businessinsider.com/video-call-eels-tokyo-aquarium-so-they-dont-forget-people-2020-5?r=US&IR=TZoo animals are lonely in lockdown: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-52493750T1000 – Liquid Metal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8h8d2XLWKYTeratoma: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TeratomaPlanarian worm: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PlanarianCombination of master and mistress is: Mastress. No, I don’t have a link for that.Support usIt would make Rach so happy if you would support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanGive us a high-five with a 5* review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285Join our newsletter to get all our news first: http://www.leveluphuman.com/keep-in-touch Follow us Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

S2E11: Level Up Human is a podcast on a mission to redesign the human body.This week, Simon and Rach chat to naturalist and broadcaster Steve Backshall and visual perception scientist Kate Storrs.We discuss enhanced vision, limb regeneration, gecko hands, super kidneys and re-breathing.Extended show notes including edited transcripts are available here.In the news Kate is tickled and baffled by a news story about MicrosoftSteve's news story is entitled, 'Venomous Frogs use Heads as Weapons.'Rach's levelled up human is Bertolt Meyer, who has hacked his prosthetic hand to hook it up to his synth.The pitches Steve wants to borrow the abilities of the Iberian sharp-ribbed newt, a type of salamander which can regenerate limbs and organs.Kate thinks the human body should be able to see the polarisation of lightPlus pitches from our audience and Mother Nature herself

Episode summarySimon and Rachel take a detailed look at flight. Why can’t we fly, how could we achieve it, and wouldn't it be exhausting?An edited transcript is available here.Mentioned this episodeAlan Rickman as the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves, the most attractive man in the world, according to Simon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZhCCu-2gbwStarlink: https://www.starlink.com/Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hitchhiker%27s_Guide_to_the_GalaxyThe incredible, gliding Hoatzin – the Johnny Rotten of the bird world: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87_shPJxdnsBarotrauma: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BarotraumaPentadactyl limb: https://www.encyclopedia.com/science/dictionaries-thesauruses-pictures-and-press-releases/pentadactyl-limbSupport usIf you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 …or join our newsletter: http://www.leveluphuman.com/keep-in-touchFollow usTwitter: twitter.com/leveluphuman Facebook: facebook.com/leveluphuman Instagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel recap Episode 10 of Series 2, where we chatted with immunologist Professor Sheena Cruickshank and microbiologist Dr. Chloe James. Plus Simon has good news for Eurovision fans.We dive deeper into what RNA is, how to train bacteriophages, and how we know humans are still evolving.An edited transcript is available here.Mentioned this episode2001: A Space Odyssey: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2001:_A_Space_Odyssey_(film)Patrick Moore’s Gamesmaster: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCuPX_tmOOoRibonucleic acid (RNA): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RNA Messenger RNA: https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/messenger-rnaTransfer RNA: https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Transfer-RNAAre we evolving to survive Alzheimers?: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/alzheimers-asthma-high-cholesterol-eradicated-natural-selection-plos-biology-research-a7932566.htmlThunderdome (featuring Tina Turner): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HeZrI5Giw4Cytokine: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CytokineCytokine storm: https://www.newscientist.com/term/cytokine-storm/The AI Eurovision Song Contest: https://www.vprobroadcast.com/titles/ai-songcontest.htmlBoris: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boris_(band)Support us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Rachel and Simon are locked down in London. Joining them from Liverpool and Manchester are microbiologist Dr. Chloe James and immunologist Professor Sheena Cruickshank.A full transcript is available here. Episode summary We discuss if it’s possible for scientists to work from home, cytokine storms and a brand new 'magic' toilet. Our panellists this week make pitches for command over our internal armies of bacteria phages and reprogramming our immune cells. The audience want self-scratching backs and bodies we can repair ourselves. Which will make it onto the shortlist? Which pitch will win? Listen to find out! Mentioned this episode NHS Covid-19 advice: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/Quantitative PCR machine: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantitative_PCR_instrumentMagic toilet: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/apr/06/magic-toilet-could-monitor-users-health-say-researchersBacteria found in gut might help boost physical performance: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/jun/24/bacteria-found-in-gut-could-help-boost-physical-performanceWithnail and I: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Withnail_and_IHow stress causes gray hair: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/01/200122135313.htmBarbara Woodhouse “I took to dog training when I had to give up cows”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic5fe7M_SysCytokine storm: https://www.newscientist.com/term/cytokine-storm/Support us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In the last of our Barbican centre recordings from November 2019, Simon and Rachel are souping up the homo sapien once again. Our guest experts are professor of experimental psychopathology from the university of Birkbeck, Naz Derakshan, and Hephzi Tagoe, a skin specialist from Queen Mary, University of London. Episode summary We discuss resilience as well as the impacts of skin conditions on psychological health and wellbeing. Rach has news of an ant with a six legged gallop. In our pitches for human body redesign, Naz wants a boost to resilience and Hephzi pitches snake skin. The audience want gecko hands, improved brain plasticity and there’s a pitch from Simon stolen from C. Elegans. Which will make it onto the shortlist? Which pitch will win? Listen to find out! Mentioned this episodeBuilding Resilience in Breast Cancer (BRIC) centre: http://briccentre.bbk.ac.ukThe fastest ant in the world: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/oct/16/fastest-ants-in-world-northern-saharaIchthyosis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IchthyosisC. Elegans: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caenorhabditis_elegansSupport us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel report from their respective bunkers during the March 2020 coronavirus pandemic. We take a long hard look at disease. Are humans a particularly diseased species? What can we learn from pandemics and is panic buying inevitable? Mentioned this episodeNHS advice on coronavirus: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ Pandemic board game: https://www.zmangames.com/en/games/pandemic/28 Days Later: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/28_Days_LaterOutbreak: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Outbreak_(film)Contagion: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1598778/Global village: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_villageDarwinian medicine: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evolutionary_medicineThe Tragedy of the Commons: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tragedy_of_the_commonsSyphilis: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/syphilis/Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henri_de_Toulouse-LautrecÉdouard Manet: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89douard_ManetPaul Gaugin: https://hyperallergic.com/111730/posthumous-prognosis-for-supposedly-syphilitic-gauguin-via-his-teeth/Oscar Wilde: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/no-oscar-wilde-probably-didnt-die-of-syphilisThermal imaging cameras in airports: http://www.nbcnews.com/id/30523865/ns/technology_and_science-tech_and_gadgets/t/how-thermal-imaging-cameras-spot-flu-feversSocialised medicine: https://time.com/5794672/health-insurance-deductibles-coronavirus/Universal Basic Income: https://time.com/5804656/ubi-yang-coronavirus/Experts are back in fashion:

Simon and Rachel are souping up Homo sapiens once again, live at the Barbican Centre with guest experts: reproductive physiologist Kim Jonas, and cardio-vascular pharmacologist, Michael Preedy. This episode was created with the support of the Physiological Society and the Biochemical Society. Episode summary We discuss the weirdest reproductive physiology on the planet, hypersexuality and how stem cells can now be reprogrammed into a new type of cell. In our news section, Rach explains why putting ice on a sprain may not longer be best practice. Next: pitches from our guest experts, the studio audience and Mother Nature herself. Michael wants lightening breath. Kim wants improved longevity for ovaries.The audience want a cure for FOMO and a projector for thoughts. Simon pitches the collagen scales of the Amazonian fish, Arapaima gigas. Which will make it onto the shortlist? Which pitch will win? Listen, and find out. Mentioned this episode Sensing north: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/jan/06/first-humans-sense-where-north-is-cyborg-gadgetThe Sims: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_SimsArapaima gigas: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arapaima_gigasSupport us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel are live at the Barbican with marine biologist, writer and documentary maker, Helen Scales and KCL professor of developmental neurobiology, Robert Hindges. Episode summary First we look at human enhancements from around the world. Helen brings news of a man with an exo-skeleton allowing him to walk. Robert tells us about developments in prosthetics which allow users to experience feedback from artificial limbs. And Rach has evidence that thumbs are getting faster. Next: pitches from our guest experts, the studio audience and Mother Nature herself. Robert wants a higher flicker frequency in the human eye. Helen suggests we all become extreme free divers with the breath holding abilities of the sperm whale.The audience want improved cooling systems, reduced urination, lego wrists and multi-sensory anaesthesia. Simon pitches the arsenic resistant qualities of the Mono lake nematodes. Which will make it onto the shortlist? And which will win? Have a listen to find out. Mentioned this episode Robot exo-skeleton: https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/exoskeleton-controlled-by-brain-signals-allows-disabled-man-to-walk/Prosthetic sensory feedback: https://www.genengnews.com/news/prosthetic-leg-with-neural-sensory-feedback-shows-benefits-for-patients/Thumbs are getting faster: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/oct/02/ready-text-go-typing-speeds-mobiles-rival-keyboard-usersObama swats fly during CNBC interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rbUH_iVjYwThe incredible diving abilities of the sperm whale:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NpZLhqly8sThe marabou stork which urinates on its legs to cool itself down: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5NCubQutpEArsenic resistant mono lake nematodes: https://gizmodo.com/scientists-find-three-sex-arsenic-resistant-nematode-i-1838497056 Support us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel are live at the Barbican with heart specialist Vanessa Lowe and comedian, podcaster and researcher, Cerys Bradley. Episode summary First we look at human enhancements from around the world. Vanessa has news of a heart attack vaccine from Harvard. Cerys tells us that there is a back-up ‘fight or flight’ system in the bones. Rach has found evidence of the loudest mating call on Earth. Next: pitches from our guest experts, the studio audience and Mother Nature herself. Cerys pitches a second eyelid for enhanced bio-informatic security. Vanessa wants hearts that continue to regenerate throughout life.The audience want more information from the body and gel pads for feet. Simon pitches the ability of mucus-digesting bacteria that can convert their blood type for universal donation. Which will make it onto the shortlist? And which will win? Have a listen to find out. Mentioned this episode Cerys’ podcast, The Coming Out Tapes: https://www.smartmaterialcollective.net/the-coming-out-tapes/Bone, not adrenaline, drives fight or flight response: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/09/190912111018.htmThe loudest bird on Earth: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/2019/10/this-is-loudest-bird-on-earth/ Support us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel are live at the Bluedot festival. They are joined by geomicrobiologist, Sarah Jones, and Holly Shiels, reader in cardiac physiology at the University of Manchester. Episode summary The news is first up as we explore some of the latest human enhancements around the globe. Sarah has a story about some scientists working on the first synthetic microbiome – but how do we ensure it stays in the body? Holly has discovered that bubble wrap is to be placed on the surface of Mars to encourage terraforming. Rach is deeply concerned that Elon Musk is trying to take over our brains. Next: pitches from our guest experts, the studio audience and Mother Nature herself. Rach is looking for ways to make her brain more efficient. Holly thinks it would be a great idea to purify the air with our nose hairs. Sarah suggests we eat rocks. The audience want pimped tastebuds, double jointedness and zoom vision. Simon's suggestion from nature is to borrow the super-power of the Chinese water turtle so that he doesn’t have to get up so much in the night. Which will make it onto the shortlist? Mentioned this episode Neuralink’s brain reading ‘threads’: https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/2019/7/17/20697812/elon-musk-neuralink-ai-brain-implant-thread-robotThe Chinese water turtle: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/2012/10/121012-turtles-urine-pee-mouth-science-animals-weird/ Support us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel skype in with some interesting items from the science news.Episode summary On this episode of Level Up Human Extra, we have news that scientists have managed to build the first organic robots using stem cells from the African clawed frog. A team from Japan have successfully cultured an elusive species of archaea and Diego the sex tortoise is retiring. Mentioned this episodeOrganic robots: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2020/jan/13/scientists-use-stem-cells-from-frogs-to-build-first-living-robotsThe first ever archaea culture: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2020/jan/15/breakthrough-gives-insight-into-early-complex-life-on-earthDiego’s retirement: https://www.washingtonpost.com/science/2020/01/12/diego-tortoise-species-retiring/Support us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Or leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel are joined by writer and computer scientist Dr. Kate Devlin and digital artist Eric Drass.Episode summary We dive into the latest human enhancement developments before getting into pitches. Rach has news of a potential Alzheimer’s vaccine; Kate found a robotic tail at a conference and Eric warns of ‘rooms full of people’ listening as we chat to Alexa, Siri and Google.Next: pitches from our guest experts, the studio audience and Mother Nature herself.Eric wants us to have multiple versions of ourselves online, Kate wants a way to know where North is. The audience want lego organs, an eye on our index finger and ‘pain on purchase’ – a device to prevent us buying too much when we’re drunk. Simon's suggestion from nature is quadruplets for all, borrowed from the nine-banded armadillo. Which will make it onto Rach’s shortlist? Mentioned this episodeEric’s Ian Hislop deep fake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkWvkNAbgfgKate's robotic tail: https://edition.cnn.com/style/article/japan-robotic-tail-intl-hnk-trnd/index.htmlAn imminent Alzheimer’s vaccine?: https://www.wired.co.uk/article/alzheimers-vaccine-united-neuroscienceTech companies listen when we talk to our virtual assistants: https://edition.cnn.com/2019/08/19/tech/siri-alexa-people-listening/index.htmlSupport us If you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285 Follow us Twitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel are joined at the Barbican centre by renal-cardiovascular physiologist Keith Siew and evolutionary psychologist, Dr. Gillian Forrester.Episode summaryThe team have brought news stories from the world of science to share before we kick off the pitches. Gillian shares a study that suggests that babies can recognise faces in utero, Keith has news that salt makes us hungry rather than thirsty and Rach reports on a colony of tardigrades on the moon.Then we hear pitches for how we should redesign the human body from each of the panellists, the studio audience and Mother Nature herself.Keith has a back up kidney or two up his sleeve, GIllian thinks humans should understand animals better. The audience want more senses, a pain over-ride, and adjustable IQ. Simon's suggestion from nature is the sensitivity of the star-nosed mole.Which of these will make it onto Rach’s shortlist?Mentioned this episodeGillian's 'Me, Human' project at the science museum: http://www.bbk.ac.uk/news/birkbeck-project-me-human-at-the-science-museumThe star-nosed mole: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Egz2f5_Ip3UTerminator tries to smile: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnrIdXWtOP8Support usIf you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285Follow usTwitter: twitter.com/leveluphumanFacebook: facebook.com/leveluphumanInstagram: instagram.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In June, Level Up Human went to Hatch in Manchester for the Microdot festival.Simon and Rachel are joined by bioethicist Prof. Andy Miah and physiologist and cardiovascular specialist Dr. Sarah Withers, both from the University of Salford.If you’d like to see us live, we’re in the middle of a residency at the Barbican in London. Please join us on November 7th 2019. You can reserve free tickets at https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2019/event/level-up-humanEpisode summaryThe team have brought news stories from the world of science to share before we kick off the pitches. Rach has news of the UK’s commitment to reduce the UK’s greenhouse emissions by 2050, Andy shares a discovery about the earliest recorded use of cannabis, and Sarah has a breakthrough in dementia research.Then we hear pitches for how we should redesign the human body from each of the panellists, the studio audience and Mother Nature herself.Sarah wants to level up fat, Andy is interested in a universal translator and we have pitches from the audience about empathy, full body transplants and more robust organs. Simon’s suggestion is borrowed from a warty comb jelly (Mnemiopsis leidyi), also known as a 'sea walnut.' I’m going to let you listen to find out what the suggestion is. Which of these will make it onto Rach’s shortlist?Mentioned this episodeUK commits to net zero emissions by 2050https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-becomes-first-major-economy-to-pass-net-zero-emissions-lawEarliest evidence of cannabis usehttps://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/culture-history/2019/06/earliest-evidence-cannabis-smoking-discovered-ancient-tombsEffect of late-life weight change on dementia incidence: a 10-year cohort study using claim data in Koreahttps://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/9/5/e021739Cryonicshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CryonicsThe warty comb jelly: https://www.geek.com/news/scientist-discovers-jellyfish-like-creature-with-transient-anus-that-only-appears-when-it-is-needed-1777327/Support usIf you're enjoying the podcast, you can support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/leveluphumanOr leave us an iTunes review: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/level-up-human/id1096637285Follow usTwitter:

Level Up Human is back redesigning the human body! This series we are supported by the Physiological Society. This episode was created with the help of the Society for Endocrinology, a world leading authority on hormones.This episode was recorded at the Barbican as part of the Life Rewired season. Host Simon Watt and judge Rachel Wheeley are joined by Dr. Miles Levy, consultant endocrinologist and honorary associate professor at University Hospitals of Leicester. And by Dr. Clare Jonas, psychologist and blogger at That Thinking Feeling.If you’d like to see us live, we’re in the middle of a residency at the Barbican in London. Please join us on October 28th and November 7th 2019. You can reserve free tickets at https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2019/event/level-up-humanEpisode summaryThe team have brought news stories from the world of science to share before we kick off the pitches. Clare explains why elephants are basically cancer-proof, Miles sings the praises of the pituitary, and Rach has tardigrade news.Then we hear pitches for how we should redesign the human body. Clare would like every human to have synaesthesia and Miles suggests we tone down testosterone. The audience want to eat like termites, improve face recognition and control their adrenaline. Simon wants to make humans stripy. Which suggestions will make it onto Rach’s shortlist?Mentioned this episodeSynaesthesia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SynesthesiaAcromegaly: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AcromegalyThe Hyrax: does this sound like a video recorder rewinding to you?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mF3rPvzTPF4Video recorder, for the under 35s: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Videocassette_recorderTardigrades could hold the key to treating life-threatening injuries: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2019/01/could-an-extremophile-hold-the-secret-to-treatment-of-devastating-injuries/Pareidolia (recognising faces in inanimate objects): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PareidoliaProsopagnosia (face blindness): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ProsopagnosiaExtracts“The pituitary gland is the most under-rated gland in the whole body. It is the size of a pea and it’s the conductor of the endocrine-orchestra (thyroid gland, adrenal gland, ovaries, testes, pancreas and all other glands.) It controls every hormone. It’s the most important, yet the most misunderstood and ignored part of the body.” – Miles Levy“Everyone should have synaesthesia. It’s a completely harmless, possibly even helpful neurological condition where your senses get mixed up. So you might... See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon breaks exciting news about the brand new series of Level Up Human - hitting your podcast device next Wednesday October 23rd.We've been recording episodes as part of our residency at the Barbican and you can join us at two more recordings happening on October 28th and November 7th.https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2019/event/level-up-humanThis series of Level Up Human is supported by the Physiological Society. Specials for the Endocrinology Society and the Biochemical Society are coming up soon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Rach and Simon dive into lab grown meat. Would you eat it, what are the pros and cons and as always, is this the beginning of the end of civilisation? Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. More information about the series is at www.leveluphuman.com and you can support us at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rach take a deep dive into gene drives this week, examining the work being done to make island conservation less lethal to the inhabitants it is supposed to be protecting. We consider how CRISPR technology might be able to help with this, how it works and what the unintended consequences of using it might be. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. More information about the series is at www.leveluphuman.com and you can support us at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel are bickering again, this time about 3D printing. Is it old news, or are recent developments in generative design enough to make it fascinating? Simon thinks it's a toy, no more likely to catch on than Betamax, Rach thinks it's the future of everything. Who is right? We will have to wait and see. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. More information about the series is at www.leveluphuman.com and you can support us at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Producer Rachel and Simon discuss Elon Musk's Falcon Heavy launch, what it means for the future of space travel and whether putting a Tesla onboard was the greatest PR stunt of all time. In this episode we chat with David McKeown, a real rocket scientist. He explains how the two side booster rockets landed, and what the launch means for the Irish space programme. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. More information about the series is at www.leveluphuman.com and you can support us at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon Watt and Rachel Wheeley rifle through the science pages in search of stories about the future of humanity. This week we are excited about flying cars, considering what information the apocalypse survivors will need and considering a way to mobilise the body's immune system to fight cancer. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. More information about the series is at www.leveluphuman.com and you can support us at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Happy New Year! Rach and Simon are fisking the science pages once again in search of human enhancement stories. This week they tackle all the most futuristic predictions that came true in 2017. The march of Artificial Intelligence, back-flipping cyborg soldiers and Simon has received the coolest Christmas present of all time. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. Support the project via www.patreon.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rach finally tackle the big one: sex robots. We discuss what is driving the fastest development in AI, when a robot will join a company's board of directors, Rach has a fact and Simon explains why we should cuddle more. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. Support the project via www.patreon.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Rach and Simon siphon the science news in search for human enhancement stories. This week, why Simon is a harbinger of doom, how to kidnap the Queen and why living in cities might not be such a good idea after all. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Neil Delamere joins Simon Watt to determine the future of the human body. Our experts here at the Cork Science Festival are biochemist Julie O'Sullivan and marine ecologist Ash Bennison. In this episode we find out how we could listen to the bacteria on our bodies, why acne is evolutionarily useful and how seabirds 'see' the ocean using an odourscape. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel consider co-evolving with AI. Plus! Space salad, seaweed glitter, how spinach is a fraud and why you should never transport dry ice in a lift. Referenced in this episode are Samuel Youd's* novel 'The Death of Grass', Michael Pollan's 'The Botany of Desire' and 17th century bitcoin: the tulip. If you are enjoying the podcast, you can support us via Patreon, at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com * under his pen name, John Christopher See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Neil Delamere joins Simon to sculpt the next human at Cork Science Festival. Joining them are engineer and researcher Alison O'Shea and zoologist and seal enthusiast Cian Luck. The panel discuss how goats have put the Faroe islands on Google Street view, how babies know to be scared of snakes and a creature that doesn't poo. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Rach and Simon are on the hunt for human upgrades again. This week: origami robots, the menopause, why old people exist, the CAPTCHA test, magnetic kids, fish with human teeth and the gob faced squid. If you enjoyed this episode you can now become a patron of the show via Patreon, at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stuart Goldsmith improves human with Simon Watt in this special episode recorded in association with the Society for Endocrinology at Latitude Festival. Our experts are materials scientist Anna Ploszajski and Neuroscientist Dr. Giles Yeo. The panel discuss why camels put all their fat in their backs, whether fecal transplants are better as 'transpoosions' or 'crapsules', and whether human knees are still fit for purpose. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman, support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. Join our patrons at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and Rachel rifle through the week's science news in search for human upgrades. This week, reproductive isolation, robobees and why aliens might already have landed. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Samantha Baines is looking for upgrades which can utilise social media in this episode, recorded at the Wellcome Genome Campus. Joining Simon this week are computational geneticist Dr. Carl Anderson, and postdoctoral research fellow Dr. Shanade Dunn to suggest upgrades for humans from their areas of research. Plus we have audience suggestions and an intriguing idea inspired by a camel. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon and a somewhat fragile Rach leaf through the latest science news in search for advances for the human race. This week: a company that promises to offer a head freezing service within a decade, honey making wasps, why Quakers make the best chocolate and the pitfalls of receiving a phone call directly into your brain. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ben van der Velde joins Simon to judge suggestions by sleep expert Russell Foster and researcher Catherine Green. The panel discuss sleep, why you should clean your teeth in the dark and whether humans have a squirrelly ancestor. Listen right to the end for a message from our friends at the Worst Foot Forward podcast! If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

LUH producer, Rachel Wheeley, joins Simon for a brand new 'extra' show to sort through some topical science news. On the pile this week: - Scientists at Sun Yat-sen University in China have used base editing for the first time in human embryos to change a single letter in a faulty gene. - Why a barn owls' hearing is awesome, and why it doesn't deteriorate with age. - How we could one day be represented in court by a computer. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Paul Sinha joins Simon to judge Royal Society fellows Liz Tunbridge, Robert Pal and the studio audience at the Science Museum in London. The panel discuss why horse tranquilisers might be useful in the treatment of depression, why researchers are stockpiling legal highs and Paul is concerned that many upgrades will make it easier for people to cheat in quizzes. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Sam Baines joins Simon to sort the genetic wheat from the chaff in this episode recorded live at the Wellcome Genome Campus during Cambridge Science Festival. Postdoctoral fellow Anne Neville and Andy Yates, head of the Genomic Technology Infrastructure team, pitch suggestions for human improvement along with the studio audience and an emerald sea slug. The panel discuss elephant fit bits, an egalitarian society and why we should learn to love the microbes that live in and on us. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Neil Delamere judges suggestions for future humans by Lara Dungan and David McKeown with Simon Watt attempting to keep some kind of order. The panel discuss memory foam people, somebody offers Neil a hug and we find out why owls might not be as wise as people think. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Zoe Lyons joins Simon to find an upgrade for Human 2.0 from England rugby cap Dame Maggie Alphonsi, Dean Burnett and the studio audience at Winchester Science Festival. The panel discuss motivation, limb regeneration and an unusual approach to birth control. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Jay Lafferty joins Simon to judge suggestions for the next humans from hummingbird expert Dr. Sue Healy and cross cultural researcher Erin Robbins. The panel discuss internal fit bits, how animals lie and why you might need to vape on your baby. Recorded as part of Explorathon, the European Researchers' Night at St. Andrews University. If you enjoyed this podcast you can now become a patron of the show: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Paul Sinha joins Simon for this special episode in collaboration with the Royal Society. Paul judges suggestions from neuroscientist Dr. Holly Bridge, bio-physical chemistry researcher Steve Lee and the studio audience live at the Science Museum. The team discuss fluorescing frogs, brain plasticity and why we need to milk a lot of spiders to improve care for stroke patients. If you enjoy Level Up Human you can now donate via Patreon: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Jack Heal judges suggestions by Hayley Pye, Maddy Coke and the Omni tent audience, Einstein's Garden at the 2016 Green Man festival. Simon Watt is in the chair as ever. The panel discuss whether we need leaders, a blood test that can reveal every virus you've ever had, and whether we actually need bodies any more at all. If you're enjoying the podcast, you can make a regular donation via our Patreon: www.patreon.com/leveluphuman Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ellie Taylor joins Simon Watt to judge suggestions by archaeologist Paul Duncan McGarrity, psychologist Dr. Julia Shaw and the studio audience at the Science Museum. The panel discuss the imperfect nature of memory, why spiders scare us and how easy it is to desecrate graves. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. We release each episode to our patrons a week before everyone else AND you can buy Level Up merch including tote bags and mugs! Join them at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Steve Cross, Mathew Tata and Catie Williams join Simon for some more Level Up fun at the first ever recording at the Bloomsbury theatre studio. The team discuss a loggerhead turtle with a titanium jaw, a machine that monitors your face to understand your emotions and Steve wants to rip everyone's spines out to replace them with more efficient titanium. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. We release each episode to our patrons a week before everyone else AND you can buy Level Up merch including tote bags and mugs! Join them at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman. Thank you for listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Jack Heal joins Simon to sort the wheat from the evolutionary chaff in this special episode recorded at the 2016 Green Man Festival. Melissa Bovis and Jon Chase pitch ideas from their areas of expertise and we have contributions from the live audience in the Omni Tent in Einstein's garden. Only one suggestion can win! Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. We release each episode to our patrons a week before everyone else. Join them at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman. Thank you for listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Amy Howerska judges suggestions for human improvement from writer and broadcaster Timandra Harkness and then Dr. James Logan, now Professor James Logan! The panel discuss landmine clearing 'hero' rats, how to remember names and Amy Howerska's world of improved empathy where hospitals are run by high-functioning sociopaths. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. We release each episode to our patrons a week before everyone else. Join them at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman. Thank you for listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Danielle Ward joins Simon along with Cam Robinson and Nick Hawes. This episode was recorded before we had a guest judge, so the suggestions are judged by the studio audience at the Science Museum! Pitches include enhanced navigation, tails and people nappies?! Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. We release each episode to our patrons a week before everyone else. Join them at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman. Thank you for listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Gemma Flynn just wants an easy life. Vying for her attention are philosopher Michael Wheeler and roboticist Eli Sheppard, with Simon Watt keeping score. We get a helping gene or two from the scrotum frog, and find out about the evolution of the haircut. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. We release each episode to our patrons a week before everyone else. Join them at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman. Thank you for listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Robert Llewellyn joins Simon to judge suggestions for the next humans from chemist Kathryn Harkup, evolutionary biologist Ben Garrod, the studio audience at the Cheltenham Science Festival and the amazing lyre bird. Our theme music was written and performed by Laurence Owen. Graphics by Theo Weedon, web design by Ian Bridgeman and support from the Wellcome Trust. The producer is Rachel Wheeley. For more information, go to www.leveluphuman.com. We release each episode to our patrons a week before everyone else. Join them at www.patreon.com/leveluphuman. Thank you for listening! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.