This is a Radio Cherwell original podcast

Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedinska

Listen Live: radiocherwell.com

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About this episode of Science & Beyond

In this episode, we meet Riyanshi, a first-year medical student at the University of Manchester, who shares a vivid snapshot of life at medical school — from navigating weekly case-based learning to practising consultation skills with professional actors.

We explore how the course blends theory and clinical preparation from day one, with modules in physiology and pharmacology alongside anatomy taught through full-body dissections — a surreal yet deeply meaningful experience, marked by the school’s reflective ‘Service of Thanksgiving’ to honour donors.

Riyanshi’s favourite topic, asthma, is personal — as someone who lives with the condition, learning about its pathophysiology has made the science come alive. We also dive into the pharmacology of hypertension, where she breaks down the mechanisms behind first-line treatments like amlodipine, which reduces stroke volume by decreasing cardiac contractility, and Ramipril, an ACE inhibitor that lowers blood volume through diuresis.

Beyond the classroom, we look at the journey ahead: from medical licensing exams to life as a junior doctor. Riyanshi also shares what makes Manchester special — from its industrial heritage to the symbolic worker bee seen across the city. This episode is a grounded and inspiring look at the making of a future doctor.

This is a Radio Cherwell original podcast

Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedinska

Listen Live: radiocherwell.com

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About this episode of Science & Beyond

In this episode, I’m joined by an Oxford master's student at the cutting edge of medical research. We dive into the fascinating world of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) — a revolutionary discovery by Nobel prize-winning Shinya Yamanaka that turned the scientific world on its head.

By introducing a specific set of transcription factors, ordinary somatic cells like skin cells can be reprogrammed into stem cells capable of transforming into virtually any cell type — including neurons. Together, we explore the different types of stem cells — from totipotent to pluripotent to multipotent — and their unique roles in regenerative medicine and neuroscience.

Our guest shares insights from her research with neurones, and how it could contribute to palliative care. We also compare the path to medical school in America vs. the UK, and how she found herself in Oxford, chasing answers in one of the most complex frontiers of modern medicine.

Whether you're a budding scientist or just curious about where the future of medicine is heading, this conversation brings stem cell science down to earth — and might just blow your mind.

This is a Radio Cherwell original podcast.

Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedinska

Listen live: radiocherwell.com

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About this episode of Science & Beyond:

Around 5.6 million people in the UK are currently living with diabetes. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Daniela Nasteska as we unpack this pressing topic.

Focusing our lens on Type 2 Diabetes, where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone at the heart of the condition. Together, we explore the science behind the scenes, from islet cells and incretins to the mechanisms of insulin resistance, while also delving into Daniela’s inspiring personal journey.

From a curious young girl to a scientist shaping the future of metabolic research, Daniela shares how her career path unfolded and why she chose to take the road less travelled.

It’s a story of bold career (and geographical!) moves, passion for change, and the human side of scientific discovery. If you’ve ever wondered how research meets real life, this is the episode for you.

This is a Radio Cherwell Original Podcast.

Hosted by: Aleksandra Jedinska

Listen live: radiocherwell.com

In honour of International Women’s Day, we’ve selected a handful of high-achieving women whose ground-breaking contributions have made a lasting impact in their fields. From innovations like salt lamps to transforming banana peels into bioplastics for insulating wires, these remarkable women have been internationally recognised for their creativity and originality.

One of my personal favourites, Rita Levi-Montalcini, began her scientific journey under the shadow of World War II. Courageously setting up a makeshift laboratory in her own bedroom, she dedicated herself to uncovering the mechanisms behind how embryonic nerves develop into a fully formed nervous system.

Enjoy listening, and we hope you leave feeling inspired by their stories!

Colin Ryde discusses the Oxfordshire football scene