In this episode of Science from the Fringe, host Bryce Nickels speaks with Sigrid Bratlie, Norwegian molecular biologist and science communicator, about her comprehensive new book The Wuhan Mystery: The Hunt for the Origins of COVID.

The conversation delves into the evidence supporting a lab-related origin of COVID-19, the politicization of science, and the personal backlash Bratlie has faced from prominent scientists. She describes how public debate and media coverage of COVID origins in Europe trail behind the U.S., as well as how trust in science and transparency have been eroded across the pond, as well.

Bratlie walks listeners down her path from reflexive skeptic to one of Norway’s leading advocates for an open, evidence-based discussion of the lab leak hypothesis. She candidly describes the personal and professional costs associated with her advocacy, including harassment and intimidation within the scientific community, and underscores the importance of courage, accountability, and intellectual openness in the face of institutional pressure.

(Recorded October 16, 2025)

Timestamps

00:31 — Introduction of Sigrid Bratlie

01:48 — Sigrid discusses her new book: The Wuhan Mystery: The Hunt for the Origins of COVID

03:13 — Conclusions on lab leak evidence and the scientific cover-up

06:45 — Reception the book has received in Norway

08:34 — Bratlie’s role as one of Norway’s leading voice on lab-origin discussions

10:36 — How Europe trails behind the U.S. in the origins debate

12:07 — Strongest evidence for a lab origin

13:27 — Kristian Andersen’s involvement in shaping the origins narrative

22:29 — Bratlie discusses Andersen’s trip to Norway last year and possible motives

28:52 — Other critics of Bratlie

34:28 — Scientific intimidation and silencing tactics

39:52 — Bratlie discusses Ralph Baric’s role

44:45 — Lessons learned: misplaced priorities, risks ignored, and the erosion of public trust

intro and outro by Tess Parks

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