In this episode of Rust Belt Science, we sit down with Dr. Louis Muglia—physician-scientist, visionary leader, and passionate advocate for interdisciplinary research. Together, we explore how the spirit of Renaissance thinking—where science, art, philosophy, and curiosity intersect—can help reignite wonder and push the boundaries of modern discovery.

Dr. Muglia shares insights from his own cross-disciplinary journey, discusses the value of integrating diverse fields to solve complex problems, and reflects on how embracing a broader view of science can empower communities, This conversation is an invitation to reimagine how we think, learn, and innovate.

What if the future of life could be written—not in words, but in proteins? In this episode of Rust Belt Science, authors Shahir Rizk and Maggie Fink talk about their new book, The Color of North: The Molecular Language of Proteins and the Future of Life. Together, they unpack how proteins act as a hidden code shaping everything from the cells in our bodies to the possibilities of synthetic biology.

We dive into how their collaboration blends hard science with human narrative, why the language of proteins matters now more than ever, and how this molecular perspective could transform medicine, agriculture, and even how we define life itself.

In this episode of Rust Belt Science, we journey into the deep cosmos with astronomer Roman Gerasimov to explore how ancient stars hold the secrets of the universe's past. Gerasimov, whose work focuses on the chemical composition of some of the oldest known stars, explains how these stellar relics act like time capsules—preserving the fingerprints of cosmic events from billions of years ago. We discuss what the early universe was made of, how heavier elements formed, and why the Milky Way’s outer halo might be the key to understanding galaxy formation. From brown dwarfs to stellar archaeology, this conversation shines light on how we piece together the story of everything—from hydrogen to humanity.

In this episode of Rust Belt Science, we tackle a topic that hits close to home for many in the scientific community: impostor syndrome. From graduate students to seasoned researchers, feelings of self-doubt and the fear of being “found out” are surprisingly common in science. We explore the psychological roots of impostor syndrome, how it manifests in academic and research environments, and what individuals and institutions can do to create healthier, more supportive spaces. Tune in for a candid conversation, personal stories, and insights on overcoming the inner critic and reclaiming confidence in your work.

In this episode of Rust Belt Science, we sit down with Dr. Bill Sullivan — scientist, author, and professor — to explore the strange and fascinating world of parasites, including the infamous Toxoplasma gondii, and how it may influence behavior in humans and animals alike. Dr. Sullivan sheds light on the complex relationship between science, storytelling, and public understanding. We discuss how his work bridges hard research with accessible communication, and why making science understandable — and even entertaining — is more crucial than ever. Whether you're a cat owner, a science enthusiast, or just curious about how microscopic organisms can impact the brain, this episode offers a compelling mix of biology, psychology, and communication..

.In this episode of Rust Belt Science, we embark on the first part of a deep dive into the psychology and science behind why people believe in conspiracy theories. Our focus spans some of the most iconic and enduring theories: the Moon landing, the life and death of Elvis Presley, and the beliefs of Flat Earthers. We explore how psychological predispositions, societal influences, and historical contexts mold our perceptions of reality and lead some to adopt alternative explanations for well-documented events.

Throughout the discussion, we consider the impact of digital media and social networking in amplifying conspiracy theories, and how cognitive biases and emotional reasoning shape our beliefs and decisions.

This is not just an exploration of these specific conspiracy theories but also a broader examination of human nature, critical thinking, and the importance of scientific literacy in today’s world. Whether you're a skeptic, a believer, or just curious about why people think the way they do, this episode of Rust Belt Science offers insightful and compelling perspectives on the science of belief. Don’t miss this intriguing journey into the human mind and the stories we choose to believe.

In this episode of Rust Belt Science, we delve into the eerie and thought-provoking world of "The Last of Us," exploring whether the events depicted in this popular video game and TV series could transition from fiction to reality. Joining us is Dr. Felipe Santiago-Tirado, an expert in fungal pathogens and Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Notre Dame.

Dr. Santiago-Tirado breaks down the science behind the game’s central premise: a fungal infection that turns humans into zombie-like creatures. We discuss the real-life Cordyceps fungus, known for its ability to control the behavior of insects and assess its potential threat to humans. Dr. Santiago-Tirado provides insight into the behavior of fungal pathogens, their evolution, and how environmental changes could possibly expand their host range.

Additionally, we examine the role of climate change, human encroachment on natural habitats, and global connectivity in potentially facilitating such a scenario. Dr. Santiago-Tirado also addresses the biological feasibility of the mutations depicted in the series and discusses current research on fungal diseases.

This episode is not just a fascinating journey into a hypothetical apocalypse but also a crucial look at the real-world implications of scientific research, environmental degradation, and our understanding of the delicate balance between humans and pathogens. Whether you're a fan of "The Last of Us" or a science enthusiast, this discussion will provide you with plenty of food for thought on the resilience of nature and the limits of human control. Tune in to Rust Belt Science for an episode that's as educational as it is thrilling!

In this episode of Rust Belt Science, we embark on the first part of a deep dive into the psychology and science behind why people believe in conspiracy theories. Our focus spans some of the most iconic and enduring theories: the Moon landing, the life and death of Elvis Presley, and the beliefs of Flat Earthers. We explore how psychological predispositions, societal influences, and historical contexts mold our perceptions of reality and lead some to adopt alternative explanations for well-documented events.

Throughout the discussion, we consider the impact of digital media and social networking in amplifying conspiracy theories, and how cognitive biases and emotional reasoning shape our beliefs and decisions.

This is not just an exploration of these specific conspiracy theories but also a broader examination of human nature, critical thinking, and the importance of scientific literacy in today’s world. Whether you're a skeptic, a believer, or just curious about why people think the way they do, this episode of Rust Belt Science offers insightful and compelling perspectives on the science of belief. Don’t miss this intriguing journey into the human mind and the stories we choose to believe.