New Season of Science History Institute's 'Distillations' Podcast Begins
The Science History Institute is set to launch a new season of its flagship podcast, Distillations, on August 5, 2025. This season promises to take listeners on a captivating journey through the history of genetic engineering and the birth of the biotech industry.
Each week, new episodes of Distillations will be released on Tuesdays, delving into the innovations, breakthroughs, dreams, and nightmares that have shaped this transformative field. The season consists of eight new episodes, starting early with a two-part story on the 1975 Asilomar Conference on Recombinant DNA.
The new season explores how genetic engineering evolved from concept to reality, and how the biotech industry emerged around these scientific advances. It highlights key moments that have shaped our understanding of DNA and gene modification technologies, as well as the impact these have had on medicine and society.
The podcast season is inspired by science fiction movies like The Andromeda Strain and Jurassic Park, offering a unique blend of historical narrative and pop culture. To engage audiences further, supporting events such as a "Gene-ius Quizzo" combine science education with fun and entertainment.
On August 1, a free event called First Friday: Gene-ius Quizzo will take place, featuring a preview of the new season of Distillations and a trivia round inspired by science fiction and genetically modified characters.
In addition to the podcast, the Science History Institute offers other educational experiences. Guided tours of the Othmer Library of Chemical History begin on June 18, and the 2025 Curious Histories Fest, celebrating school lunch history with pickle tastings, cooking demos, ice cream, and more, is scheduled for a later date.
Scholars from around the world will also study a wide range of topics in the history and social studies of chemistry, chemical engineering, and the life sciences at the Science History Institute.
Subscriptions to Distillations can be made wherever podcasts are available. Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about the world around you, the new season of Distillations promises to help you better understand the surprising science that is all around us.
- The upcoming season of Distillations podcast, focusing on genetic engineering and the birth of the biotech industry, will explore how technology and scientific advancements have impacted medical conditions, health and wellness, education, and self-development.
- In line with science fiction movies like The Andromeda Strain and Jurassic Park, the gene-themed season of Distillations offers a blend of historical narrative, pop culture, and lifestyle, through events like the "Gene-ius Quizzo" that combines science education with entertainment.
- Beyond the podcast, the Science History Institute fosters an environment for lifelong learning, offering guided tours, educational festivals, and academic programs in various fields, from chemistry and chemical engineering to life sciences, promoting a holistic understanding of history and contemporary life.
