Why Is Academic Research So Siloed? University Of Cambridge podcast

29:04

Richard Westcott talks to Jonathan Stieglitz, IAST, and Martin White, University of Cambridge, about the global health challenges related to diet and nutrition, and the respective roles of public health policies, cultural practices, and lifestyle changes, while creating sustainable food systems that ensure access to healthy food for all and maintain economic viability. In this episode, Richard Westcott talks to Martin White and Jonathan Stieglitz about a big question: how can we create food systems that are good for our health, our communities, the planet, and the economy? Drawing on research from both modern cities and small-scale societies, they explore what shapes our diets today—from global food companies and convenience culture to physical activity and traditional ways of living. Our experts take a closer look at the contrast between ultra-processed foods and traditional diets and what that tells us about modern health challenges. They discuss the impact of sugar taxes, why simply educating people isn’t enough, and how government policy and industry action could help shift the system. They also reflect on the rise of weight-loss drugs—whether they are are helpful solutions or a distraction from the root problems. This episode is hosted by Richard Westcott (Cambridge University Health Partners and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus), and features experts Jonathan Stieglitz (IAST) and Martin White (Bennett Institute for Public Policy and Cambridge University) . Season 4 Episode 7 transcript Listen to this episode on your preferred podcast platform For more information about the Crossing Channels podcast series and the work of the Bennett Institute and IAST visit our websites at https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/ and https://www.iast.fr/. Follow us on Linkedin, Bluesky and X. With thanks to: Audio production by Steve Hankey Associate production by Burcu Sevde Selvi Visuals by Tiffany Naylor and Aurore Carbonnel…

University of Cambridge

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Tasmanian tigers: Uncomfortable truths, understanding, and acknowledging violence 13:39

5 weeks назад13:39

13:39

Today, natural history museums are starting to research the deeper histories of how their collections were built, and this is revealing some surprising and troubling stories. Thylacines, or Tasmanian tigers, are icons of extinction, and some of the world’s best-preserved specimens are in University Museum of Zoology, Cambridge. This series explores new research there, uncovering an uncomfortable truth about how the history of the extinction of the thylacine had strong parallels with the violent events that took place in Tasmania in the nineteenth century. Join zoologist and author Jack Ashby (University of Cambridge), journalist and academic Lainy Malkani (University of the Arts London), and Elder uncle Hank Horton, a Pakana man from Trooloolway mob, lutruwita, Tasmania, for a conversation about thylacines, museum collecting, and why it’s important to tell these difficult stories. The series is part of a unique art/science collaboration between the Sonic Screen Lab, UAL (Lainy Malkani, Professor Shreepali Patel & Julia Schauerman), Hank Horton, and the University Museum of Zoology, Cambridge (Jack Ashby). Listeners should be aware that we will be discussing events that involved racial violence in Tasmania.…

University of Cambridge

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Stories behind the scenes 13:40

5 weeks назад13:40

13:40

In this second episode, Lainy Malkani and Jack Ashby head to the storerooms of the University Museum of Zoology in Cambridge to take a closer look at one of the world’s finest collections of thylacine skins. They explore how what was done to thylacines and what was done to Tasmanian Aboriginal people was part of the same historical process. As populations of both were diminished, demand for their remains in western museums rocketed. The man who sent the skins to Cambridge was Morton Allport. Recent research has revealed an uncomfortable truth about how Allport built his reputation as a leading “man of science”, by both stoking that demand, and working to fulfil it. Listeners should be aware that we will be discussing events that involved racial violence in Tasmania.…

University of Cambridge

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New perspectives: Whose stories are museums telling? 10:20

5 weeks назад10:20

10:20

In this final episode, the spotlight falls on the Museum itself as Jack Ashby and Lainy Malkani ask what is to be gained from uncovering the hidden human stories behind natural history collections. A far greater diversity of people were involved in building these scientifically invaluable collections than has traditionally been told. By telling these histories more completely, museums can only increase their relevance. Can these new ways of seeing collections in museums can help to bring about a shift in colonial thinking in the museum sector, one that ensures that the human story behind the collections continues to be told?…

University of Cambridge

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Can Europe ever catch up to the US in technology? 31:26

8 weeks назад31:26

31:26

Richard Westcott talks to Diane Coyle, Jacques Crémer, and Paul Seabright about Europe’s position in competing with the US in technology. They explore the factors shaping Europe’s place in the global tech race—how data, policy, investment, competition and culture influence its potential to compete with the US. Our experts unpack the challenges and opportunities for Europe’s tech ecosystem. They consider whether Europe should aim to catch up with the US or focus on carving out its own path, questioning what success in innovation really looks like. Along the way, they discuss the role of data, risk-taking, the challenges of scaling up new ideas, and the structural and policy changes needed to support innovation in Europe. This episode is hosted by Richard Westcott (Cambridge University Health Partners and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus), and features experts Diane Coyle (Bennett Institute for Public Policy, University of Cambridge), Jacques Crémer (IAST), Paul Seabright (IAST) Season 4 Episode 6 transcript Listen to this episode on your preferred podcast platform For more information about the Crossing Channels podcast series and the work of the Bennett Institute and IAST visit our websites at https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/ and https://www.iast.fr/. Follow us on Linkedin, Bluesky and X. With thanks to: Audio production by Steve Hankey Associate production by Burcu Sevde Selvi Visuals by Tiffany Naylor and Aurore Carbonnel…

University of Cambridge

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How to get your voice heard in a busy world 37:12

8 weeks назад37:12

37:12

In this episode of 'So Now What', host Catherine Galloway engages with Gates Cambridge scholars Jakub Szomalec, Raggenhilde Fregdaler, and Jansu Karabiak to explore how creative methods can address wicked problems in society. The conversation delves into the importance of arts in academia, the role of entertainment in cultural activism, and the power of personal stories in engaging audiences. The guests share their unique experiences and insights on how to effectively communicate complex issues in an increasingly noisy world, emphasizing the need for emotional connection and community engagement. Takeaways Creative methods can effectively address wicked problems. Arts and academia should be funded for their impact. Comedy can relay serious messages in engaging ways. Stories are essential for activating empathy. Entertainment can serve as a platform for activism. Immersive experiences can change audience perceptions. Adapting messaging is crucial for short attention spans. Understanding technology is a parental responsibility. Engaging with diverse communities enriches perspectives. Real conversations foster better understanding and connection. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wicked Problems and Creative Solutions 05:25 The Role of Arts in Academia 10:05 Entertainment as a Tool for Cultural Activism 13:30 Personal Stories and Vulnerability in Creative Work 18:38 Engaging Audiences Through Immersive Experiences 22:25 Adapting Messaging for Short Attention Spans 28:13 The Responsibility of Understanding Technology 32:23 Takeaways for Action and Engagement Cansu Karabiyik received her PhD in medical science in 2021. Since then she has spent her days as a neuroscientist developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and her evenings as a standup comedian performing in clubs in New York City. Jakub Szamalek award winning novelist and video game writer, who co-created international bestsellers such as "The Witcher 3" and "Cyberpunk 2077", currently Narrative Director at Rebel Wolves, a game development studio he co-founded. Doctor of classical archaeology educated at Oxford and Cambridge Universities and a Cambridge Gates Scholar. His most recent book, "Inner Space", will come out in English in July 2025. Ragnhild Freng Dale is a social anthropologist and senior researcher at the Western Norway Research Institute. Her research interests include energy imaginaries, justice in climate transitions and impacts of energy infrastructure on local and indigenous communities. She thrives working on projects that are multimodal and experimental, especially in collaboration with the performing arts field.…

University of Cambridge

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How can green finance drive the clean transition? 25:31

10 weeks назад25:31

25:31

In this episode of Crossing Channels, Richard Westcott is joined by Dimitri Zenghelis, Ulrich Hege, and Mathias Reynaert to explore how green finance can support the clean transition. They discuss the shifting role of financial markets, the balance between public and private investment, and the policies needed to drive long-term change.…

University of Cambridge

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How can we make the world a better place for young people? 40:26

13 weeks назад40:26

40:26

In this episode of So Now What, host Catherine Galloway talks to Gates Cambridge scholars Kevin Beckford, Emma Soneson, and Blanca Piera Pi Sunyer to discuss the pressing issues facing today's youth. The conversation explores the importance of empowering young people, the role of community and culture in their development, and the need for systemic change in education and mental health support. The scholars share their insights on how to harness the energy of young people to create a brighter future, emphasizing the significance of supportive environments and the necessity of listening to youth voices in shaping policies that affect them. Takeaways Young people are powerful agents of change. Community support is crucial for youth development. Mental health should be prioritized in education. Adversity can have cumulative negative effects on health. Empowering youth requires systemic change in institutions. Resilience should be reframed to focus on support, not just endurance. Education should promote exploration and self-discovery. Youth voices must be included in decision-making processes. Creating supportive environments can buffer against adversity. A visionary approach is needed to reimagine society for young people. 00:00 Introduction to youth empowerment and impact 02:58 Harnessing the energy of young people 06:07 The role of community and culture in youth development 08:54 Exploring opportunities for young people 12:03 The importance of mental health in education 15:04 Creating supportive environments for adolescents 18:12 Reimagining education for young people 20:58 The need for systemic change 23:55 Resilience vs. hustling: a new perspective 27:01 Global perspectives on youth challenges 29:56 Visioning a better future for young people Kevin Beckford [2011] is the co-founder and a board member of The Hustlers Guild, a non-profit that uses hip hop to expand access and opportunity to Black and Latinx youth in the innovation space. He is also Senior Associate, Parnerships and Engagement at the Pretrial Justice Institute. From 2020 to 2022 he was an Atlantic Fellow for Racial Equity from 2020 to 2022 and from 2014-2016, Kevin worked in the White House Presidential Correspondence Office. He also served as a special advisor to Secretary Julian Castro at the US Department of Housing and Development. Blanca Piera Pi-Sunyer [2021] is a final year PhD student at the Department of Psychology at the University of Cambridge working on social inequalities and socioemotional difficulties during adolescence. Emma Soneson [2018] is a Senior Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Oxford Department of Psychiatry. She maintains a broad research profile within the field of child and adolescent mental health but is especially interested in the intersections between mental health and education.…

University of Cambridge

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How are data and algorithms impacting our lives? 30:55

16 weeks назад30:55

30:55

Gina Neff, Jeni Tennison and Jean-François Bonnefon discuss how algorithms and data influence our work, lives, and interactions, and the governance frameworks required for accountability and public good. Richard Westcott (Cambridge University Health Partners and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus) talks to Gina Neff (Minderoo Centre for Technology & Democracy), Jeni Tennison (Connected by Data), and Jean-François Bonnefon (IAST) about how data and algorithms are shaping our lives. They explore how these technologies impact work, public services, and decision-making, while raising questions about ethics, fairness, and governance. Season 4 Episode 4 transcript For more information about the Crossing Channels podcast series and the work of the Bennett Institute and IAST visit our websites at https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/ and https://www.iast.fr/. Follow us on Linkedin, Bluesky and X. With thanks to: Audio production by Steve Hankey Associate production by Burcu Sevde Selvi Visuals by Tiffany Naylor and Aurore Carbonnel…

University of Cambridge

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Is the world becoming less democratic? 30:27

20 weeks назад30:27

30:27

Our experts discuss the definition of democracy and why statistics say it's in worldwide decline. In this episode, Richard Westcott (Cambridge University Health Partners and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus) talks to David Runciman (University of Cambridge), Kristin Michelitch (IAST) and Ahmed Mohamed (IAST) about the decline in democracy indexes worldwide, the cultural, technological, and institutional factors driving these trends, and whether they can be reversed. Our experts explore the meaning of democracy and the reasons behind the decline of democracy indexes. They examine the impact of technology, media, culture, and religion on reshaping politics and shaping the future of democratic systems. Season 4 Episode 3 transcript Listen to this episode on your preferred podcast platform For more information about the Crossing Channels podcast series and the work of the Bennett Institute and IAST visit our websites at https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/ and https://www.iast.fr/. Follow us on Linkedin, Bluesky and X. With thanks to: Audio production by Steve Hankey Associate production by Burcu Sevde Selvi Visuals by Tiffany Naylor and Aurore Carbonnel…

University of Cambridge

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What is happening to young people’s mental health? 26:56

25 weeks назад26:56

26:56

In this episode, Richard Westcott talks to Gordon Harold, Anna Moore, and Olympia Campbell about the growing rates of mental health issues among young people. They discuss the key determinants and the most effective ways to support young people's mental health. Our experts examine whether mental health among young people is truly worsening or if we’re simply getting better at identifying it. They unpack the key factors shaping mental health today, delve into the role of the digital world, and discuss how policies can evolve to expand support and access to services for young people. This episode is hosted by Richard Westcott (Cambridge University Health Partners and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus), and features experts Prof Gordon Harold (University of Cambridge), Dr Anna Moore (University of Cambridge) and Dr Olympia Campbell (IAST). Season 4 Episode 2 transcript Listen to this episode on your preferred podcast platform For more information about the Crossing Channels podcast series and the work of the Bennett Institute and IAST visit our websites at https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/ and https://www.iast.fr/. Follow us on Linkedin, Bluesky and X. With thanks to: Audio production by Steve Hankey Associate production by Burcu Sevde Selvi Visuals by Tiffany Naylor and Aurore Carbonnel…

University of Cambridge

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Does prison work? 28:41

27 weeks назад28:41

28:41

To kickstart Season Four of Crossing Channels, Richard Westcott talks to Alison Liebling, Nicola Padfield and Arnaud Philippe about the growing prison population, the prison experience, and the most effective ways to rehabilitate ex-offenders. Our experts discuss why the prison population is growing and the similarities and differences across European countries. They share their expertise on the impact of the prison environment and the privatisation of prisons for rehabilitation. They also identify best practices for effectively rehabilitating and reintegrating ex-offenders into society. This episode is hosted by Richard Westcott (Cambridge University Health Partners and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus), and features guest experts Prof Alison Liebling (University of Cambridge), Prof Nicola Padfield (University of Cambridge) and Prof Arnaud Philippe (University of Bristol, former IAST fellow). Season 4 Episode 1 transcript: https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/S04E01_Transcript.docx.pdf Listen to this episode on your preferred podcast platform: https://pod.fo/e/2716d2 For more information about the Crossing Channels podcast series and the work of the Bennett Institute and IAST (Institute for Advanced Study in Toulouse) visit our websites at https://www.bennettinstitute.cam.ac.uk/ and https://www.iast.fr/. Follow us on Linkedin, Bluesky and X. With thanks to: Audio production by Steve Hankey Associate production by Stella Erker and Burcu Sevde Selvi Visuals by Tiffany Naylor and Aurore Carbonnel More information about our host and guests: Richard Westcott is an award-winning journalist who spent 27 years at the BBC as a correspondent/producer/presenter covering global stories for the flagship Six and Ten o’clock TV news as well as the Today programme. His last role was as a science correspondent covering the covid outbreak, but prior to that he was the transport correspondent reporting on new technologies such as driverless cars, major accidents and large infrastructure projects including HS2 and the expansion of Heathrow. Over the decades he also reported on the Iraq War and 9/11 as well as numerous UK general elections. Last year, Richard left the corporation and he is now the communications director for Cambridge University Health Partners and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, both organisations that are working to support life sciences and healthcare across the city. @BBCwestcott Relevant links Auty, K. M., & Liebling, A. (2024). What is a ‘good enough’ prison? An empirical analysis of key thresholds using prison moral quality data. European Journal of Criminology, 21(5), 725-753. https://doi.org/10.1177/14773708241227693 Chen, D. L., Cingl, L., Philippe, A., & Šoltés, M. (2024). Exploring inmates’ perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors: Implications for theories of crime. Working Paper Series, 779. ISSN 2788-0443. https://www.cerge-ei.cz/pdf/wp/Wp779.pdf…

University of Cambridge

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The power of culture in peacebuilding 46:00

37 weeks назад46:00

46:00

The conversation explores the role of culture in peacebuilding and the need to challenge narratives of conflict and division. The guests discuss their experiences in conflict-affected regions and the importance of empathy, healing, and resilience in creating cultures of peace. They highlight the need for education systems to promote peace and inclusion, and the importance of dismantling oppressive narratives and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities. The conversation concludes with a call to action to reform education, support cultural workers, and create spaces for dialogue and understanding. Takeaways Culture plays a crucial role in peacebuilding and can challenge narratives of conflict and division. Empathy, healing, and resilience are essential in creating cultures of peace. Education systems should promote peace, inclusion, and critical thinking to challenge oppressive narratives. It is important to amplify the voices of marginalised communities and provide spaces for dialogue and understanding. Dismantling oppressive narratives and supporting cultural workers are key steps in creating a more peaceful world. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 08:17 The impact of conflict on culture 11:31 Witnessing violence and building peace 16:39 Challenging conflict-based worldviews 20:59 Weaponisation of culture and fighting back 24:47 Erasure of culture and missing voices 27:14 Measuring success in peacebuilding 31:28 Creating cultures of empathy and Ubuntu 36:39 Reforming education for peace and inclusion 38:55 Dismantling oppressive narratives 41:43 Amplifying marginalised voices 44:32 Supporting cultural workers 45:27 Conclusion…

University of Cambridge

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How to create a more tolerant world 33:15

37 weeks назад33:15

33:15

The podcast episode explores the concept of tolerance and how to create a more tolerant world. The guests discuss the importance of face-to-face interactions, trust, and cooperation in building tolerance. They also examine the role of technology and social media in promoting or hindering tolerance. The guests share their perspectives on using music, arts, and creativity as tools for fostering tolerance and empathy. The episode concludes with the call to volunteer, challenge personal narratives, and imagine a better future. Takeaways Tolerance requires face-to-face interactions, trust, and cooperation. Technology and social media can both promote and hinder tolerance. Music, arts, and creativity can be used as tools for fostering tolerance and empathy. Volunteering, challenging personal narratives, and imagining a better future are ways to promote tolerance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and background 06:06 Building tolerance: face-to-face interactions and cooperation 10:25 The role of technology in promoting tolerance 13:13 Using music and arts to foster tolerance and empathy 25:12 Conclusion and call to action…

University of Cambridge

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Should there be a compulsory retirement age for society’s leaders? 39:28

38 weeks назад39:28