By Stanford Engineering
The podcast currently has 294 episodes available.
Halloween may be behind us in the US but here at The Future of Everything we’re not quite done with spooky season. If you’re pairing your trick-or-treat haul with some scary movies, we invite you to revisit with us a conversation Russ had with Lawrence Wein a couple years ago about the work he’s doing in forensic genetic genealogy to crack cold cases. Professor Wein shares how he’s using math to catch criminals through traces of their DNA. It’s both haunting and hopeful, and we hope you’ll take another listen.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Russ Altman introduces guest Lawrence Wein, professor of management science at Stanford University.
(00:02:18) Forensic Genealogy Explained
Forensic genetic genealogy and its impact on solving unsolved crimes.
(00:04:31) Third-Party Databases in Genealogy
Insight into databases that allow law enforcement to search for criminal suspects.
(00:08:23) Math Models in Genealogy
Using mathematical models to streamline genealogy work.
(00:11:31) Components of the Genealogy Algorithm
The algorithm's methods, including ascending and descending family trees.
(00:14:12) Algorithm Efficiency and Comparison
Comparing the new algorithm's effectiveness to traditional genealogy strategies.
(00:16:53) Algorithm in Practice
Role of human input alongside the mathematical algorithm in genealogy cases.
(00:20:42) Role of Genealogists
Genealogists’ insights on balancing human skill and mathematical algorithms.
(00:22:45) DNA Databases and Ethics
The ethical and privacy concerns related to using genetic data.
(00:27:01) Background and Interest in Forensic Genealogy
Lawrence’s journey from operations management to forensic genealogy.
(00:30:16) Conclusion
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Returning guest Marco Pavone is an expert in autonomous robotic systems, such as self-driving cars and autonomous space robots. He says that there have been major advances since his last appearance on the show seven years ago, mostly driven by leaps in artificial intelligence. He tells host Russ Altman all about the challenges and progress of autonomy on Earth and in space in this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Russ Altman introduces guest Marco Pavone, a professor of aeronautics and astronautics at Stanford.
(00:02:37) Autonomous Systems in Everyday Life
Advancements in the real-world applications of autonomous systems.
(00:03:51) Evolution of Self-Driving Technologies
The shift from fully autonomous cars to advanced driver assistance systems.
(00:06:36) Public Perception of Autonomous Vehicles
How people react to and accept autonomous vehicles in everyday life.
(00:07:49) AI’s and Autonomous Driving
The impact of AI advancements on autonomous driving performance.
(00:09:52) Simulating Edge Cases for Safety
Using AI to simulate rare driving events to improve safety and training.
(00:12:04) Autonomous Vehicle Communication
Communication challenges between autonomous vehicles and infrastructure.
(00:15:24) Risk-Averse Planning in Autonomous Systems
How risk-averse planning ensures safety in autonomous vehicles.
(00:18:43) Autonomous Systems in Space
The role of autonomous robots in space exploration and lunar missions.
(00:22:47) Space Debris and Collision Avoidance
The challenges of space debris and collision avoidance with autonomous systems.
(00:24:39) Distributed Autonomous Systems for Space
Using distributed autonomous systems in space missions for better coordination.
(00:28:40) Conclusion
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Physicist Matthias Kling studies photons and the things science can do with ultrafast pulses of X-rays. These pulses last just attoseconds – a billionth of a billionth of a second, Kling says. He uses them to create slo-mo “movies” of electrons moving through materials like those used in batteries and solar cells. The gained knowledge could reshape fields like materials science, ultrafast and quantum computers, AI, and medical diagnostics, Kling tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Russ Altman introduces guest Matthias Kling, a professor of photon science and applied physics at Stanford University.
(00:02:52) Ultrafast Electronics Overview
The technologies enabling ultrafast photonics and electronic advancements.
(00:05:32) Attosecond Science Applications
Capturing electron and molecular movements with attosecond pulses.
(00:09:31) Photoelectric Effect Insights
Attosecond science’s impact on understanding the photoelectric effect and quantum mechanics.
(00:13:27) Real-Time Molecular Measurements
Using light waves to capture images of molecules at room temperature.
(00:19:32) Future of Ultrafast Electronics
How attosecond light pulses could revolutionize computing with petahertz speed.
(00:23:28) Energy-Efficient Quantum Computing
Potential for room-temperature quantum computers using light wave electronics.
(00:26:33) AI and Machine Learning in Science
AI's role in optimizing research and data collection in ultrafast electronics.
(00:28:51) Real-Time AI Data Analysis
Machine learning enables real-time analysis of massive experimental data.
(00:32:15) Conclusion
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We’re just weeks away from a national election, and in our polarized society, we all know it can be difficult to find and create spaces for thoughtful policy discussions. A couple of years ago, James Fishkin, a professor of communication at Stanford, joined the podcast. He talked about a system called deliberative polling that can serve as a model for structuring small group discussions to help bring people together and bridge differences in conversations about some of the most politically fraught issues. It’s an opportune time to bring this conversation back for another listen and we hope our discussion helps as you go about your conversations through this political season and beyond.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Russ Altman introduces guest James Fishkin, a professor of communication at Stanford.
(00:01:31) What is Deliberative Democracy?
The concept of deliberative democracy and how it addresses political divides.
(00:03:47) Managing Balance in Deliberation
The importance of balanced group discussions and strategies for avoiding conflict.
(00:04:55) Scaling Deliberation for Large Groups
The logistics and technology behind scaling to larger groups, both online and in person.
(00:06:54) Deciding Which Questions to Address
How tough issues are selected for deliberation in different locations.
(00:10:54) The Human Element in Deliberation
The surprising effectiveness of online platforms for fostering connection.
(00:13:13) Automated Moderators in Deliberation
The development and success of automated moderators in online deliberations.
(00:19:20) Applying Deliberative Democracy to the U.S.
Whether deliberative polling could help address political deadlock in the U.S.
(00:25:30) The Future of Deliberative Polling
The future possibilities of scaling deliberative polling to larger populations.
(00:27:23) Conclusion
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Astronautics professor Grace Gao is an authority on the Global Positioning System. GPS has long been key to navigation on Earth, she says, but science is now shifting its focus outward to the frontiers of space. Gao is working on a GPS-like system for the Moon. To keep costs low, this lunar positioning system will leverage Earth-based satellites complemented by a network of smaller satellites in lunar orbit. It could lead to autonomous vehicles on the moon and a new era of lunar exploration, Gao tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Russ Altman introduces Grace Gao, a professor of aeronautics and astronautics at Stanford University.
(00:02:15) GNSS vs. GPS
The difference between GPS and GNSS, and the different global navigation systems.
(00:03:09) How Does GPS Work?
GPS operation, including the role of satellites, ground monitoring stations, and user receivers.
(00:04:07) GPS Signal and Satellites
How GPS uses multiple satellites and how the different global systems collaborate to improve accuracy.
(00:05:23) GPS Challenges in Cities
Issues with GPS in urban environments and the importance of reliability and safety.
(00:07:53) Improving GPS Accuracy
Multimodal sensor fusion helps enhance GPS accuracy in challenging environments.
(00:10:11) Collaboration Among Autonomous Vehicles
The potential for autonomous vehicles to share information for better navigation and safety.
(00:14:07) GPS Safety and Signal Jamming
GPS safety concerns and real-world signal disruption examples.
(00:18:56) GPS in Space Travel
How GNSS and Earth-based GPS systems can support space missions.
(00:25:05) Designing Lunar GPS
The cost and coverage challenges of creating a lunar navigation system.
(00:27:13) Autonomous Moon Rovers
NASA’s plans for collaborative autonomous rovers on the Moon.
(00:30:42) Conclusion
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Sports medicine physician Emily Kraus knows a lot about the health challenges of female athletes. Women face far more ACL tears and bone stress injuries than men, for instance, and excessive training or poor nutrition can also delay puberty and affect menstruation. These differences are vastly understudied, she says. To close the gap, Kraus initiated the “Female Athlete Voice Project” that asks female Olympic and Paralympic athletes about their health experiences. We need to tailor approaches specific to female athletes, Kraus tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’sThe Future of Everything podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Host Russ Altman introduces Emily Kraus, a professor of orthopedics at Stanford University and an expert on the issues of women's health.
(00:02:19) Health Challenges for Female Athletes
Prevalent injuries and health issues unique to female athletes.
(00:03:57) Hormonal Health and Puberty
The impact of hormonal health and menstrual cycles on young athletes’ performance.
(00:06:57) Body Composition and Mental Health
The challenges and psychological impact puberty has on young athletes.
(00:08:53) Female Athletes in Adulthood
The lack of research and resources available for female athletes during major life transitions.
(00:12:48) Nutrition, Fueling, and Recovery Science
How science has evolved in understanding nutrition, recovery, and strategic rest.
(00:15:54) Gender Differences in Fueling and Recovering
The differences between male and female athletes in nutrition and recovery.
(00:19:19) Survey of Olympic Athletes
Insights from female Olympians and Paralympians on the key gaps in sports science research.
(00:21:40) The WUSAI Human Performance Alliance
The WUSAI Human Performance Alliance’s focus on uncovering the principles of human performance.
(00:25:35) The Female Athlete Survey
The unexpected findings from the survey, highlighting the sexism and inequity in sports.
(00:27:26) Spreading Knowledge to Athletes and Clinicians
How Emily’s research is being received by the broader athletic and medical communities.
(00:30:00) Conclusion
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Today, we’re bringing you a best-of from our archive of over 250 episodes. We’re all aware that the consequences of climate change range from rising sea levels, to drought, wildfires, economic disruption and the displacement of populations. We’re seeing and living through many of these effects, but is there hope for managing additional risk? A couple years ago we sat down with environmental scientist Chris Field to ask this question. He shared that it’s still possible to pave the way to a sustainable future. Take another listen to this episode to hear more about how he thinks we can do this together.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Host Russ Altman introduces guest Chris Field, a professor of earth systems science and biology at Stanford.
(00:01:59) The Status of Climate Change
The current status of global warming and the need for ongoing emissions reductions.
(00:03:17) Understanding CO2 and Temperature
The linear relationship between CO2 emissions and global warming.
(00:05:00) Is Zero Emissions Feasible?
The UN's climate goals and why both mitigation and adaptation are crucial.
(00:06:04) Global Collaboration for Climate Action
The role of both private sector innovations and global political collaboration in climate action.
(00:08:22) Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
Progress made in strategies for mitigating climate change and adapting to its effects.
(00:11:25) Climate Impact on Disasters
How rising temperatures exacerbate coastal flooding and wildfire risks.
(00:14:07) Adaptation to Coastal Flooding
Insights into strategies such as improving infrastructure and planned relocation.
(00:16:47) Adaptation to Wildfires
Assessment of fire management policies and the challenges of wildfire risk in high-risk regions.
(00:19:03) Technological Innovations in Climate Change
The potential for future technological innovations to solve climate change.
(00:20:54) Ukraine Conflict and Climate Change
The surprising connection between the Ukraine conflict and global climate change.
(00:23:41) Individual Impact on Climate Change
How individuals can make contributions to combating climate change in their everyday lives.
(00:25:57) The Role of Young People in Climate Change
The role young people play in the fight against climate change.
(00:27:12) Conclusion
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Taken any selfies lately? Dermatologist Zakia Rahman studies both the science of healthy skin and the effects of the exponential increase in skin images on self-esteem. As a result, skin health is linked to mental health, she says. It’s not about vanity, it’s about vitality, Rahman tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Host Russ Altman introduces guest Zakia Rahman, a professor of dermatology at Stanford University.
(00:02:24) The Impact of Digital Technologies
How digital technologies and frequent image exposure affect dermatology and self-perception.
(00:03:40) Effects of Self-Image on Dermatology
Balancing vanity and vitality in modern skincare trends.
(00:05:05) The Role of Lasers in Dermatology
The use of laser technology in dermatology, including types and applications.
(00:08:44) Lasers in Skin Cancer Treatment
How laser technology aids in the treatment and prevention of skin cancer.
(00:10:11) Progress in Skin Cancer
The effectiveness of sun protection measures and how we can better prevent skin cancer.
(00:13:29) Effectiveness of Physical Sun Protection
The protective benefits of everyday clothing versus specialized sun-protective gear.
(00:18:56) Ethnic Differences in Skin Health
The differences in skin health and sun exposure effects across various ethnic groups.
(00:23:43) Aesthetic and Cultural Implications in Skin Care
How cultural perceptions of beauty intersect with skincare and overall health.
(00:26:08) Therapeutic Effects of Light
The potential skincare benefits of red light therapy and its popularity.
(00:28:55) Conclusion
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Arvind Karunakaran studies the intersections of work, AI, and organizational behavior. He says AI can enhance speed and productivity in the short run, yet degrade skills over time. But it is in organizational power dynamics where AI has had its most marked impact, he says, telling host Russ Altman about situations in law firms where AI has fostered tension between paralegals and junior attorneys. It’s AI and the modern workplace on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything Podcast.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Host Russ Altman introduces guest Arvind Karunakaran, a professor of management science and engineering at Stanford University.
(00:02:47) Productivity vs. Skill Development
The broader impact of AI on workplace productivity and the potential skill loss among workers.
(00:04:39) New Skills for the AI Era
Whether new skill sets required by AI tools are emerging or if it's still too early to tell.
(00:06:17) AI and Power Dynamics
How AI is influencing authority and power dynamics in the workplace.
(00:09:16) Challenges of Role Re-Design with AI
The need for systemic changes in job roles and organizational structures to accommodate AI.
(00:11:02) Accountability and AI in Decision-Making
The complexities of accountability when AI is involved in decision-making processes.
(00:15:14) Platforms and Power Dynamics
The role of platforms as intermediaries and their impact on authority and power dynamics.
(00:20:28) AI Experimentation in the Workplace
How organizations are experimenting with AI and the importance of trust in these processes.
(00:23:29) Rethinking Training for AI Integration
The necessity of innovative training methods to effectively integrate AI in workplace settings.
(00:25:30) Management Strategies for AI Adoption
Ways managers can approach AI integration in their organizations to foster productivity and innovation
(00:28:12) AI in Gig Work Platforms
Challenges and opportunities AI presents within gig work platforms.
(00:32:20) Conclusion
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We want to wish our listeners in the states a happy Labor Day weekend. We hope, wherever you are, you’re taking some time to savor the last bit of summer. After a couple months full of travel and news about the airplane industry, we can’t help wondering — are there better ways to build airplanes? Our previous guest, Ilan Kroo, an expert in aeronautics, discusses how recent developments in fuels, engines, materials, and computer controls are leading to a new era of airplanes. We hope you’ll tune in and learn something new.
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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Host Russ Altman introduces guest Ilan Kroo, a professor of aeronautics and astronautics at Stanford University.
(00:01:33) The Future of Airplane Design
The technological advancements that are enabling new types of aircraft designs.
(00:03:52) Designing Airplanes with Active Control
Active control systems and their impact on airplane safety and efficiency.
(00:05:03) Personal Flying Vehicles
eVTOL vehicles as a promising future technology for personalized and commercial travel.
(00:06:54) Scaling eVTOL and Air Traffic Control
How companies and regulatory bodies are preparing for the rise of eVTOL vehicles.
(00:10:21) Sustainable Aviation
New engine concepts, composite materials, and sustainable fuels in commercial aviation.
(00:16:42) Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft
Hydrogen's potential as a sustainable fuel source and its impact on airplane design.
(00:19:44) Climate Modelling in Airplane Design
The intersection of climate science and airplane design for a more sustainable future.
(00:22:04) Unconventional Airplane Designs
New designs that may become the future of aviation, with benefits in sustainability and performance.
(00:25:55) Conclusion
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The podcast currently has 294 episodes available.