Life Solved is set to spark conversation for curious thinkers and those who like to be in the know on the latest innovations in technology, medicine, the environment, social theory and beyond.
In each weekly episode, researchers talk in-depth about pioneering research, tackle thought-provoking questions, and explore life-changing innovations - from outsmarting criminals with VR and the evolution of cybersexualities, to how failure informs space research, and science could help you survive a zombie apocalypse.
You can listen to Life Solved on all major podcast players, whether via Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts or other apps. Just search for ‘Life Solved’ and press the subscribe button.
Use the links below to jump between each series of Life Solved.
Get involved
How to join in with the University's research:
Contact the Life Solved team for more information, on lifesolved@port.ac.uk.
What will happen when there’s no water left to drink?
To mark World Water Day, this week's episode examines our wasteful water habits and what's being done to reduce consumption.
The academic imprisoned for his research
In this episode, we peer inside a place that most people want to be kept out of, but one University of Portsmouth researcher has worked hard to get into - prisons.
Sport saving our seas
In this episode we catch up with a rower and a Portsmouth scientist who are gathering incredible insights into the state of our ocean while circumnavigating Great Britain’s coastline.
The unstoppable evolution of the English language
Ahead of UN English Language Day, today’s Life Solved explores how English became one of the world’s most widely spoken languages and how a mathematical model developed here might predict its future.
Will architecture save the world?
To mark World Earth Day (April 22), this episode explores the transformative power of design and the impact of architecture on building a safe and sustainable future.
Life onboard a ship in the Southern Ocean for science
In this episode we chat to two researchers who travelled to one of the most remote inhospitable regions on the planet, in the pursuit of science.
What happened during the fourth session of the Global Plastics Treaty?
This one-off special episode looks at INC-4 with University of Portsmouth experts who attended the fourth round of the Global Plastics Treaty.
The History of the Horror Genre
In this week's episode we take a deep dive into the world of horror right before Halloween
The realities of radiation and addressing Fukushima fake news
In this episode, we explore the real risks of nuclear radiation – and how incorrect information can cause unnecessary concern.
Saving Seasides – Why Countries Need Coastal Communities
In this episode, we take a look at seaside towns.
UFOs or UF-No’s?
In this episode, whilst many of us talk about ‘UFOs’, we take a fresh look at the rebranded term ‘unidentified anomalous phenomena’ (UAPs).
How Incels Use TikTok To Spread Hate & Lies
In this episode, we discover how social media is increasingly a breeding ground for so-called ‘Incel’ content, perpetuating misinformation, misogyny, sexism and even violence – and increasingly accessible on mainstream platforms.
Is The World Becoming Less Democratic?
In this episode, we explore the concept of democracy – and ask whether it’s under threat.
The Science Of Smells
For many of us, January is the time for New Year’s resolutions, whether that be cutting out chocolate, carbs or coffee. But to what extent do our cravings come down to smell?
When Will the Cost of Living Crisis End?
In this episode, we speak to two experts about the cost of living crisis, and take a look at the current state of the UK and world's finances
From Shelf to the Global South – why our plastic ends up in low-income countries
Life Solved is back for its 12th series – and its 100th episode!
Let’s talk about Chemsex
In this episode we explore what Chemsex is, the harms it potentially causes to individuals, and what can be done to keep people safe.
The reality of CSI
In this episode we take a look at the realities of Crime Scene Investigation or CSI.
Nature’s leading role in cleaning up our waters
In this episode we take a look at nature’s role in cleaning our waters.
Batteries – leading the charge in sustainable energy
In this episode we talk about all things batteries.
The history of the weekend - should they be longer?
In this episode, we take a look at something most of us take for granted – the two-day weekend. But are two days enough?
Putting parenting shaming on the naughty step
In this episode, we take a look at something nearly all expectant parents do – the reading of self-help books
AI & Chat GPT: The beast is out of the box, so what now?
In this episode we talk all thing AI, what is it? Is it good? Is it bad?
It’s Not All Musk – What We Can Learn From Space's Epic Fails
In this episode, you’ll hear how success and failure continues to inform space research both globally, and right here in the south of England.
Jazz - the original music rulebreaker ft. George Burrows, Professor of Music and Theatre
In this episode we found out how the swing band, ‘Andy Kirk and his Clouds of Joy’, helped place popular music at the centre of cultural change in the 1920s and 1930s, and how echoes of early 20th century jazz continues to influence 21st century music.
Ice Ivory - The Mammoth Crime You Should Know About
In this episode of Life Solved, we explore the little-known ‘Ice Ivory’ market. Hear researchers at the University, describe how mammoth ivory is being sold, in place of elephant ivory; often illegally.
How to survive a zombie apocalypse featuring Dr John Leach, Dr Sarita Robinson and Dr Matthew Higgins
In this episode three experts joins for a round-table discussion on how to survive a zombie apocalypse (according to science).
Can true crime be ethical? Featuring Dr Megan Hoffman and Dr Simon Hobbs
This week's episode explores the possibilities and the pitfalls of true crime coverage in the 21st cent
Who polices the police?
In this episode, Dr John Fox, former Senior Police Detective turned academic, talks about the authorities overseeing the police service and the behaviour and attitudes of their officers.
Why enzymes are the latest fashion in the fight against plastic waste in our clothes
This week’s Life Solved looks at the plastics in our clothes, and how proteins which speed up chemical reactions are the latest trend in the fight against synthetic waste.
INC-2: How close are we to a global plastics treaty? Featuring Professor Steve Fletcher and Antaya March
In this episode will unpack what was agreed at INC-2, look at the roadmap ahead, and give an insight into the upcoming PlasticsFuture 2023 conference.
The Power of Public Perception in the Fight Against Climate Change ft. Dr Chris Jones
Dr Chris Jones is a Reader in Applied Psychology shares his insights into how public perception and psychology can play a role in tackling one of our world’s critical problems: climate change.
Mapping Microplastics ft. Dr Fay Couceiro
In this episode of Life Solved, Dr Fay Couceiro shares the latest on an exciting partnership between the University of Portsmouth and a 2,000 mile competitive rowing event!
Rise of the Film Franchise ft. Professor Lincoln Geraghty
In this episode of Life Solved, Professor Lincoln Geraghty takes us through a history of the film franchise, and explores how they’re keeping our imaginations and the film industry alive today.
How to Solve the UK’s Water Crisis ft. Dr Peter Cruddas
In this episode Peter Cruddas discusses our aged infrastructure and what needs to be done in the face of droughts
Virtual Reality Relics ft Dr Claire Bailey-Ross
In this episode Dr Claire Bailey-Ross explains how virtual, augmented and extended reality techniques are enhancing our learning experiences in museums, galleries and online.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Crime Prevention ft. Matthew Talbot
In this episode of Life Solved we find out how Matthew Talbot is bringing together forensics and psychology in the Virtual Burglary Project at the University.
The Evolution of Cybersexualities ft. Dr Trudy Barber
In this episode, Trudy Barber explains how the digital age is evolving sexual identity and community.
Fraud Falling Under the Radar ft. Professor Mark Button
In this episode Mark Button shares his tips for staying safe online, and the scams he thinks we need to be mindful of in the future.
How Fashion and the Internet are Changing the Status of Women in Iran ft. Dr Mahsa Ghaffari
In this episode of Life Solved Dr Mahsa Ghaffari explores how dress codes and shopping choices are allowing women to subtly subvert state oppression through clothing and consumer choices in Iran.
Tackling Racial & Gender Inequality in TV and Film ft. Professor Deborah Shaw
In this episode of the Life Solved podcast, Professor Deborah Shaw explores how the route to equality lies in representation both on screen and off.
Using Robotics to Support Physical Recovery ft. Amy Wright
In this episode of Life Solved Amy Wright, takes us through how biomechanical data informs artificial intelligence and robotics to help people recover the use of their limbs.
Can Advertising Be A Force For Good ft. Dr Karen Middleton
In this special festive episode of Life Solved, Robyn Montague speaks with Dr Karen Middleton about her research into the social power of advertising.
Nuclear Power: Mythbusting and Smart Diagnosis by Victor Becerra
Professor Victor Becerra explains how nuclear reactors work and why they’re getting safer thanks to design and technology to make the handling and managing of nuclear power and nuclear waste better.
Extended Reality: The Future of Culture, Services and Business
Pippa Bostock and Alex Counsell takes us through the exciting world of the University’s Centre for Creative and Immersive Extended Reality.
A SOLVE Magazine Showcase
In a special edition of Life Solved, we are celebrating the work of researchers across the University, by chatting to some of the brilliant minds featured in the new edition of SOLVE magazine
How Satellite Imagery Can Save Lives and Help Fight Crime
In this weeks Life Solved episode Professor Richard Teeuw tells us about how his work in geoinformatics and disaster risk reduction has led him to work on tackling challenges here on earth
Smart textile design for women’s bodies ft. Dr Jenny Burbage
Dr Jenny Burbage discusses what actually makes a good sports bra and the considerations we should have when looking for the right fit
Is Information the Fifth Form of Matter? Ft. Dr Melvin Vopson
In this episode Dr Melvin Vopson tells us all things fascinating about the fifth form of matter
Exploring Shipwrecks in UK Waters ft. Dr Ann Coats
In the latest episode of Life Solved, Dr Ann Coats takes us through a cutting-edge project to investigate shipwrecks around the UK coastline and reveal more about our maritime past.
Using Extreme Environments To Tackle The Obesity Crisis ft. Dr Ant Shepherd
In the latest episode of Life Solved, Dr Ant Shepherd takes us through a unique project to investigate how altitude and temperature could be of benefit to millions of people in the UK.
Railway Safety Back On Track ft. Dr Mike Esbester
In the last Life Solved episode of season 9, Dr Mike Esbester explains how a growing historical database of railway accidents, going back over 150 years, could create safer journeys and be a useful resource for those exploring their family’s past.
The Future of Support for Society's Most Vulnerable
Dr Bethany Simmonds and Dr Emma Maynard share their insights, perspectives and solutions on two vital areas of social support in the UK
How Ocean Environments Could Save the Planet
Dr Ian Hendy shares some insights into the incredible capacity these natural ecosystems hold in the fight against climate change
The Truth About Cybercrime and Cybersecurity
Dr Vasileios Karagiannopoulos explains what we mean by crime in the ‘cyber’ world and how we can protect ourselves and our organisations
Secrets of the 1921 Census
Professor Deborah Sugg Ryan and Dr Melanie Bassett discuss insights revealed by the 1921 Census and a few of the mysteries they've been following through the archives too
Bringing Space to the Solent
Professor Adam Amara shares an inspirational chat about why he loves astronomy, from dark matter to pub-table debates and discovering planets
The Falklands Conflict 40 Years On
Top historians and researchers from the University of Portsmouth discuss the pattern of events of 1982 Falklands War and ask whether such a conflict could happen again
Bacteria: It's Not All Bad
Researcher Christina Scott is taking a closer look at a pathogen that might be doing some mysterious good in our ecosystems
Solutions to Global Plastic Pollution
In this episode, we meet up with Professor Steve Fletcher to explore a step-change in the way we’re thinking about the oceans as a natural resource
Series 7
How Palaeontology is unpicking the story of life on Earth
A celebration of Palaeontology, featuring guests Dr Dave Martill, Dr Nizar Ibrahim and PhD student Jeremy Lockwood.
The truth about cold water swimming
How safe is cold water swimming? How might it improve your mental health? And is it really as good for your body as the anecdotes suggest?
What does fairness in football look like? Part 1: Equality
In the latest episode of the Life Solved podcast, researchers from Portsmouth discuss how changes in the game can have an impact on wider society.
What does fairness in football look like? Part 2: Corruption
In the latest episode, Christina Philippou and Dr Adam Cox share insights into financial mismanagement and its impacts on people in football.
Do Animals Really Know What We're Thinking?
In the latest episode of the Life Solved podcast, Dr Leanne Proops talks about the psychology of relationships between pets and humans
Understanding the Ukraine Invasion
In this special episode of Life Solved from the University of Portsmouth, Glenn Harris speaks to academics for their insight on current world events
How Technology is driving new forms of domestic abuse
In the latest episode of the Life Solved podcast, Dr Lisa Suguira shares her findings from a University of Portsmouth study into criminal behaviour online.
Series 6
Mapping Past and Present
In this episode, Professor Humphrey Southall and Paula Aucott tell us about a new mapping project that’s transforming the way we understand the present.
How everyday people are exploring our cosmos
The mysteries of outer space have long fascinated scientists and academics, but an innovative research project has put ordinary people at the helm of exploring our cosmos.
How zines are capturing social history
An enormous archive of self-published magazines is helping researchers catalogue and explore social history here at Portsmouth.
The University of Portsmouth in space
In this special episode, staff from the ICG explain their role in the UK’s ambitious plan to double investment in the space economy by 2030.
Community resilience in world crises
Ahead of COP 26, Dr Cressida Bowyer speaks to us about insights the University will be sharing at this years climate change conference.
COP in Focus: The Future of Construction
In this episode, Professor Mark Gaterell demystifies the role of construction in our net-zero future.
COP in Focus: What Now?
In this episode, Professor Steve Fletcher reflects upon the outcome of conversations at COP26.
How tech is transforming the world
This time we're taking a tour of the innovations in technology taking place here at Portsmouth.
Representing all of us in public organisations
Professor Karen Johnston challenges the norms that are holding back women and under-represented groups.
Series 5
In this special new series of Life Solved, we explore the trends, changes and innovations that are taking place in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Across 5 episodes, find out how life is changing for all of us, and University of Portsmouth researchers share their findings, ideas and observations on what a post-Covid future might look like.
How has the pandemic changed mental health and education opportunities for young people?
In our first episode, we explore how the education and future opportunities of young people have been impacted by the pandemic, and discuss what we can learn to better support them in the future.
Has Covid changed consumer habits for good?
In this episode of Life Solved, University of Portsmouth researchers explore the impact of the pandemic on our shopping habits and consumer attitudes.
How tech is changing employment and women’s work lives
In this episode of Life Solved, researchers and business experts share their insights into what the Covid-19 impact means for our relationship with work in the future.
Democracy and policing under pressure
This episode of Life Solved explores what the Coronavirus pandemic restrictions have meant for human rights, democracy, trust and policing.
How has Covid impacted sustainability in our world and habits?
This time we’re asking if the coronavirus pandemic has created a dramatic setback for the global environmental crisis.
For the rest of this series of Life Solved, we’re delving into the world of wildlife crime.
Working with the antique trade to change the law on ivory
Caroline Cox explains how her work in addressing the illegal trade in animals and plants led to supporting law change in the UK.
Understanding the world’s most endangered great ape
In this episode of Life Solved, Dr Marina Davila-Ross tells us about her work studying communication in Great Apes.
Fingerprinting pangolin scales to fight wildlife crime
In this episode of Life Solved, we hear about a cross-disciplinary project to help fight the illegal trade in plants and animals.
Series 4
How witness interviewing techniques influence evidence
Professor Becky Milne explains how psychology and forensics can combine to serve justice and help save lives.
Outsmarting criminals with VR
Understanding the minds of criminals is crucial in helping the public to outsmart crime. Professor Claire Nee explains all.
Understanding nature’s most disastrous events
Portsmouth research is helping the island nation of Dominica become the world’s first hurricane-proof country.
How crowdsource mapping and drone photography can support disaster response
Making software and data affordable and easy to access can support developing countries in responding to natural disasters.
Reading the rocks: how we can predict landslides to keep homes safe and highways open
Discover how Dr Malcolm Whitworth studies landscapes to help predict, prevent and prepare for natural hazards.
Interpreting the Surface of the Moon
Understanding the deep history of planets and satellites in our solar system could help unveil secrets in the history of planet Earth.
Series 3
Episode 1: Atomik Vodka
Professor Jim Smith battles the myth of Chernobyl and explains how his safe, high-quality vodka is the first consumer product to come from the area since the 1986 disaster.
Episode 2: Voices Against Violence
Professor Tamsin Bradley discusses her research into violence against women and how it's informing development organisations on how to respond to crises.
Episode 3: Development Economics
Gain an insight into the complex and far-reaching world of Development Economics with Professor Andy Thorpe.
Episode 4: 3D Printing for the Body
Hear how the work of Professor Gordon Blunn and his team are revolutionising the way artificial limbs and joint replacements are integrated with the human body.
Episode 5: The Language of Violence
Dr Alessia Tranchese explains how she has examined the linguistics of different media to uncover the hidden violent and misogynistic narratives in our society.
Episode 6: Meet the Aca-fans
Professor Lincoln Geraghty introduces us to the Aca-fans: the academics who are researching the (often positive) social impact of fandom on communities and individuals.
Episode 7: Creative Communication for Better Health and Wellbeing
How a University of Portsmouth collaboration is using art as the conduit for vital public health messaging around the world.
Episode 8: Beyond Help? Mental health and support for vulnerable children
Children in present-day care are being failed by unconscious biases and attitudes that echo the Victorian era. Dr Wendy Sims-Schouten explains her findings.
Episode 9: Learning and Normalising Bereavement
Death and bereavement are natural life experiences, but how is our approach to education and communication letting young people down?
Episode 10: Fashion for the Future
A Fashion Revolution Week special. Your shopping habits, buying choices and the clothes you wear might be impacting human rights, the environment and our supplies of finite resources.
Series 2
Episode 1: Plastic Waste and the Economics of Sustainability
Portsmouth researchers explore the problems faced by sustainability in society today and new breakthroughs coming out of Portsmouth.
Episode 2: The Power of Puppy Dog Eyes
Dr Juliane Kaminski chats about the eyebrow muscle that dogs use to wrap us round their paws.
Episode 3: Parasites and Pollutants
Professor Alex Ford explores how the behaviour of sea creatures changes when zombie-like parasites thrive in polluted waters.
Episode 4: The Next Generation of Antibiotics
Professor Anastasia Callaghan talks about her and her team's effort in fighting antimicrobial resistance.
Episode 5: How Stress Shapes Our Brains
Professor Jerome Swinny has been exploring the physical link between our bodies and our life experiences.
Episode 6: A Sweet Approach to Battling Bad Bacteria
With antibiotic resistance on the rise, Dr Sarah Fouch and her team have been looking at alternative solutions for the most pressing scenarios.
Episode 7: Respect the Water
What should you do if you find yourself drowning in cold water? Professor Mike Tipton is campaigning for water safety to be part of the national curriculum.
Episode 8: Politics and Packaging in the Food Industry
Less packaging isn’t always better for the environment. Professor Paul Trott explains how innovative food packaging can help tackle problems of food waste.
Episode 9: Girls' Night Out
Dr Emily Nicholls takes us through her research on how gender is performed through drinking and sobriety in British culture.
Episode 10: Water Blindness
Managing waste and water systems is key to human health. Professor John Williams explains how Portsmouth are rethinking those systems.
Episode 11: Chemcatcher
Professor Gary Fones has developed technology to help water companies stay ahead of keeping our supplies clean and clear through sampling.
Episode 1: The Coronavirus Toolkit
Portsmouth researchers discuss the issues that have arisen as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Episode 2: How Politics Became Social
Dr James Dennis explores how political behaviour is changing in the digital age.
Episode 3: Innovations in Diagnosing Bladder Conditions
Dr John Young explores how technology is advancing treatment for many suffering with bladder conditions.
Episode 4: Deep, Blue Thinking
Professor Steve Fletcher explains how international cooperation on our mysterious oceans could help save environments.
Episode 5: Drone Warfare
Professor Peter Lee spoke to drone operators about how their job does not detach them from the act of killing.
Episode 6: The Politics of Water
Dr Julia Brown discusses her research into giving water access to whole populations.
Episode 7: Britain's Burning Future
Dr Mark Hardiman discusses climate change and how hot summers may become the norm in the UK.
Episode 8: Vital Connections in the Brain
Professor Arthur Butt on why deeper research into glia holds the key to treating some of our biggest illnesses.
Episode 9: Oysters in the Solent - Cleaning up our waters
Dr Joanne Preston shows us how she's been reintroducing native oysters to the Solent with pioneering tech.
Episode 10: The Will to Change the Law
Juliet Brook explores how 180 year-old will and inheritance laws are causing problems during the pandemic.
