Ep 41. Jonathan Elsen On Microbes: the 'Dark Matter' of Biology

Jonathan Eisen, a biology professor at UC Davis, takes us on a fascinating journey through the world of microbes in this episode of FORA.tv Science. Microbes, or microorganisms, are tiny living creatures that exist all around us and even inside us. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and many other types of organisms that are too small to see with the naked eye. Despite their small size, microbes play a huge role in the world and in our lives. Yet most of us know very little about them, which is why Eisen is on a mission to shed light on what he calls the "dark matter" of biology.

In this episode, Eisen explains the amazing diversity of microbial life and how it has evolved over billions of years. He shows us how microbes are involved in some of the most important processes on Earth, from producing oxygen to breaking down waste materials. We also learn how microbes interact with larger organisms, including humans, and how they can cause disease but also play a crucial role in maintaining our health.

One of the most fascinating aspects of microbiology is the way that scientists are using new technology to study microbes in greater detail than ever before. Eisen discusses some of the cutting-edge tools that researchers are using to identify and analyze different types of microbes, including DNA sequencing and metagenomics. He also talks about the challenges of studying such a vast and complex field, including the fact that many microbes have never been seen or studied before.

Throughout the episode, Eisen emphasizes the importance of understanding microbes and their role in the world. He notes that many of our daily activities, from eating to cleaning, involve interactions with microbes. He also discusses the ways that microbes are impacted by environmental factors like climate change and pollution, and how studying these processes can help us understand and protect the natural world.

Overall, this episode of FORA.tv Science is a fascinating exploration of the world of microbes and the role they play in our lives. Eisen's enthusiasm for his subject is infectious, and he does an excellent job of explaining complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging way. Whether you're a science buff or simply curious about the tiny creatures that make up our world, this episode is sure to captivate and inform.