A warning for US science & wool's chemical versatility | The chemical breakdown podcast

About this episode

The episode discusses challenges facing US science and the unique chemistry of wool.

This week, we discuss the latest challenges facing US science outlined by president of the US National Academy of Sciences Marcia McNutt in her outgoing address as well as the unique chemistry underpinning wool's incredible properties with Neil Withers and Rebecca Trager. Marcia McNutt gave her final address as president of the US National Academy of Sciences earlier this month, warning of turmoil for science in the wake of further proposals by the White House to restrict funding. We discuss highlights from the event. And, how does the chemical composition of wool contribute to its material properties? We explore this staple fabric and its uses beyond clothing.

People in this episode

Guests: Neil Withers, Rebecca Trager

Topics covered

• US science challenges
• wool chemistry
• material properties
• funding restrictions
• fabric uses

Keywords

• US science
• Marcia McNutt
• wool properties
• chemical composition
• funding proposals

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: US National Academy of Sciences

More episodes of The chemical breakdown & Chemistry in its element

• An update on the Strait of Hormuz & potential explosives at an Antarctic base | The chemical breakdown podcast · July 8, 2026 · 28 min
• Click chemistry marks 25 years & covalent bonding in the actinides | The chemical breakdown podcast · June 10, 2026 · 28 min
• Quantum computing & a mysterious contaminant in microplastics research | The chemical breakdown podcast · May 28, 2026 · 34 min
• Battery week 2026: The EV cathode race & battery-recycling | The chemical breakdown podcast · May 13, 2026 · 25 min
• Vanadium-based medicines & sustainable labs | The chemical breakdown podcast · April 29, 2026 · 24 min
• Inert materials & the Mary Celeste | The chemical breakdown podcast · April 16, 2026 · 31 min