Podcasts are an excellent resource for student researchers looking for information, inspiration, and guidance outside the classroom. Whatever your current challenges in thesis writing, research methods or productivity there is a podcast to help.
FAQs
1. What types of podcasts are most beneficial for student researchers?
Podcasts that cover academic skills (writing, publishing, thesis work), research communication, mental health, and productivity are often the most useful. Student researchers also gain from interdisciplinary science updates and career development-driven podcasts, particularly those that are about the trials and tribulations of the stages of graduate study.
2. How can I integrate podcasts into my research routine?
Podcasts can be listened to at any time you may be commuting, working out, doing chores, or taking breaks. Some students consider minus podcasts as a motivational or educational warm up prior to study sessions. Consider making a habit of listening to short episodes (less than 30 minutes) or subscribing to a few shows so that you can manage the amount of podcasts you listen to.
3. Can podcasts actually improve my research skills?
Definitely. Many podcasts, like interviews with experts, case studies, and real-life advice on academic challenges are also ways of learning and can be valuable accompanying resources for formal education. They strengthen critical thinking, teach best practices for research, and put you in touch with perspectives that are not within your field, which are all essential skills for any researcher.
To get you started here is a curated list of some of the best podcasts to support, inform and inspire you across your academic and research career, making everything accessible and available to learn while in transit.
1. Ologies with Alie Ward
Hosted by science communicator Alie Ward, Ologies features a different scientific field in each episode-from volcanology to myrmecology-and interviews real-life experts in a fun, engaging manner. The podcast takes complicated material and grinds it into a humorous, and enthusiastic form that is approachable for high school audiences. It is a terrific resource for students interested in the breadth of science and looking for discussions about possible interests in research from a multitude of fields.
2.Science Friday
Science Friday, hosted by Ira Flatow, provides detailed discussions about the latest in science and technology. They have expert guests that cover every aspect, such as climate change, new space missions, medical breakthroughs, AI advances, and much more. For high school students, it is an exciting tool that is a great source of ideas for a science fair, a research paper, or simply to keep up with the fast-paced, ever-changing scientific world.
3. Throughline
NPR's ThroughLine connects past events to contemporary issues, illustrating how history shapes today's modern world. Each episode offers an in-depth exploration of significant historical narratives, and provides context and depth of knowledge about contemporary issues. This podcast is valuable for students' research in humanities or social sciences, encouraging students to think historically and develop reasoning skills that are important for academic writing and philosophical debate. This podcast may be especially relevant for history fair student projects and students writing thematic essays.
4. Science Vs
Science Vs tackles fads, trends, and controversies, comparing what people say to what science actually says. Host Wendy Zukerman leads a team that has examined climate change, diets, and myths about technology. They highlight the researchers and the data to present the take-home messages as clearly and as engagingly as possible. For student researchers, this is an impressive example of clearly communicating the science in an accessible, yet rigorous manner — both important skills when conducting public engagement and while writing grant submissions.
5. The Nature Podcast
Also produced by the journal Nature, this weekly podcast contains short high-quality summaries of new work across disciplines. Each episode includes interviews with experts, highlights of journal articles, and discussion of recent news in science. It is a great way to stay up-to-date on science beyond your field, and learn directly from researchers in similar and far flung disciplines. While it's inspiring and broadens their horizons, it is also a good demonstration of how scientific narratives are told in top publications.
7. Deep Questions with Cal Newport
Cal Newport, best-selling author and computer science professor, confronts questions of focus, deep work, and meaningful productivity. His recommendations, while not purely research-based, have significant relevance for student researchers who are often inundated with complex activities—reading, writing, and analysis, to name a few. Newport discusses ideas like digital minimalism, time blocking, and career purpose, and offers systems and philosophies that can alter your academic workflow. This is a great resource for developing a sustainable and distraction-free research lifestyle.
8. The Academic Imperfectionist
Dr. Rebecca Roache hosts the Academic Imperfectionist podcast which aims to assist academics and students alike who suffer from perfectionism, procrastination, and self-doubt. Combining humor with tough love and psychological principles, Psycho-Educational programs help listeners challenge their mental barriers to academic productivity. Episodes are generally short and relatable for the listener, packed with practical tips to follow. The podcast is also especially helpful for students who experience imposter syndrome, and can begin to establish healthier academic practices without the expectation of being “perfect.”
9. The Productivity Show
This podcast is done by Asian Efficiency, and follows their tried and true methods for working smarter and not harder. While the podcast is primarily general in nature, the episodes on habits, focus, and routines can generally be applied to research life. The podcast covers a diverse range of topics from managing your calendar to reducing distractions. The podcast provides both the theory of time management and actual tools for how to become a more efficient student researcher. If you are someone trying to make better use of your writing time, plan for a big project, or balance multiple obligations, this podcast is for you.
If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Research offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world.
Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE Research helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Research’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!
Read More
