Under the Microscope

Can we build structures that are actually alive? This week on Under the Microscope, host Pranoti Kshirsagar is joined by Anna Sandak, Associate Professor and Head of the materials group at the University of Primorska, Slovenia. Anna's work bridges the gap between biology and materials science to make the building sector more sustainable, dynamic, and resilient.In this episode, we dive into her major research projects, including ARCHI-SKIN (developing self-healing coatings made of good fungi) and REMEDY (high-resolution "living tattoos" printed onto building facades). Anna also shares the exciting details of her project sending fungal biofilms into space to test their survival under extreme cosmic conditions.Tune in to hear how biology, art, and space exploration are colliding to redefine the buildings we live in.More details: https://thesciencetalk.com/podcast/under-the-microscope-podcast/engineered-living-materials-how-anna-sandak-is-making-buildings-self-heal/

How do you design a research outreach strategy that actually works?In this solo episode of Under the Microscope, Dr. Pranoti Kshirsagar breaks down a practical framework for science communication, research dissemination, and outreach planning for research projects and grant proposals.If you are preparing an ERC, Horizon Europe, or institutional research project, this episode gives you a structured approach to building a clear and effective dissemination strategy.You will learn the three foundational pillars of successful outreach:Define and align your audience — who is it for and why now?Craft the core message — what is the story behind your research?Choose the right channels and formats — podcasting, social media, press, website, conferences, and beyond.Using the QuanTour global quantum science campaign as a real-world example, this episode shows how a structured communication strategy can scale across 12 labs, multiple countries, and diverse audiences without diluting the message  This episode is for:Principal InvestigatorsResearch group leadersERC and Horizon Europe applicantsScience communication professionalsInnovation-driven research teamsBecause impactful science communication is not accidental. It is strategic.Writing a research proposal and need help? We'd be happy to help. Contact us: https://thesciencetalk.com/contact-us/

Watch to the full episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5AyHb676TAniPi1jrIiOh7?si=5TevPCQiSKW8CPqKLYGPMw&nd=1&dlsi=41743b05bf864ac2What 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.