Laurie Winkless

Biodiversity has always increased toward the equator. New research using birdwatcher data suggests urbanization is flattening that slope.

Space-spun fiber works, but faces daunting practical obstacles

Hydrogen promised a clean green revolution for rail. The reality - grey fuel, reliability problems, and competition from batteries - is both messier and more interesting

Science commentator Laurie Winkless looks at three new studies from the science world.

How the VFX pioneers behind Lord of the Rings rewired an entire industry

A growing body of research shows that wildfires now pose a significant health risk to those living in cities.

A new book posits that physical space, rather than policy, is the primary constraint for urban transport. I speak to the authors to learn more.

The sun supports all life on Earth. But its 'solar tsunamis' threaten our electricity infrastructure. Discover how New Zealand is preparing for extreme solar storms

Science commentator Laurie Winkless joins Kathryn with three new studies. Starfish arms can guide and focus light. Researchers in Cambridge have looked at how cells can defeat viruses. The wind of Sgr A*, our black hole, has been found.

How New Zealand engineers are helping find better ways to prepare for – and respond to – landslides.

New research confirms that extreme heat is reshaping city life, and we’re not prepared for what that means for the future

Several projects around the world are working to develop indigenous-owned AI models

Particles produced from brake and tire wear now represent the majority of emissions from road transport. As the EU cracks down on them, scientists urge others to follow.

The length of the green signal on pedestrian crossings assumes that people can walk at a speed of 1.2 m/s. Scientists find that very few older people can walk that fast.

How engineers and other experts are helping to protect New Zealand’s electricity grid against solar storms.

Science commentator Laurie Winkless looks at how Korean researchers have taken waste from an abundant species of clams to recreate the silk produced from another, endangered species of clam. A study out of Canada has found that construction produces

Cities are under pressure to build housing while also cutting emissions. Researchers say it is possible to do both, but only if we rethink current construction practices.

Researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have announced the first elastocaloric device capable of reaching subzero Celsius temperatures, marking a milestone in the development of this promising refrigeration technology.

London looks set to be the first city in Europe to host robotaxis. But a new survey shows that support for robotaxis lags behind support for traditional public transport.

Colorado team develop a new form of silicone that is more transparent than window glass, and a better thermal insulator than materials used to construct walls.