REACH shares the stories of Penn State researchers: their studies, discoveries, and the ways their work shapes our world.
As a national leader in university research, with more than $900 million in annual funding, Penn State is at the forefront of tackling the challenges that matter most. Hosts Beth Bamford and Cole Cullen sit down with these experts to explore what they’re studying, why it matters, and how it impacts everyday lives and communities. From cross-disciplinary collaborations to partnerships with other universities and government agencies, REACH highlights the successes, challenges, and real-world impact of university research. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how research connects to you.
Dr. Eric Ford, director of Penn State’s Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds, explains the search for planets beyond our solar system, focusing on those in the “habitable zone” where liquid water can exist. They use advanced telescopes to detect and analyze exoplanets, focusing on biosignatures like oxygen and methane. Current research combines indirect methods with new technology aiming for direct imaging, paving the way for future missions like the Habitable Worlds Observatory in the 2040s.
6 Oct 2025
Microplastics
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles under five millimeters found throughout the environment—in oceans, rivers, and sediments. Dr. Nathaniel Warner of Penn State explains they come from everyday sources like water bottles, clothing fibers, and tires. Humans ingest microplastics through food, water, and air, but the often-quoted “credit card worth” in our bodies may be exaggerated. Health impacts remain uncertain, but scientists continue studying to understand the risks better, facing challenges due to limited data and public misconceptions.
29 Sept 2025
Mine Water Runoff
Pennsylvania’s abandoned coal mines cause acidic, metal-contaminated water harming streams and aquatic life. Dr. Bill Burgos studies cleanup methods using active and passive treatment plants. Burgos and his team focus on improving natural biological processes to make water treatment more efficient and sustainable. Despite progress, thousands of miles of streams remain affected, highlighting the ongoing need for research and investment in remediation.
22 Sept 2025
3D Bioprinting
Dr. Deepak Gupta, a postdoctoral researcher at Penn State, works on 3D bioprinting—using modified 3D printers to create tissues like bone and skin from biocompatible materials and living cells. Though not yet used in humans, this technology could aid healing, personalize implants, and improve surgical training. Challenges include regulatory approval and replicating complex organs like hearts or kidneys.
15 Sept 2025
Empathy
Dr. Daryl Cameron is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Penn State. He explains empathy as sharing feelings, perspective-taking, and compassion. It’s flexible, can be learned, and sometimes causes challenges like burnout. His research shows empathy isn’t limited; people can grow empathy for both humans and animals, emphasizing strategic emotional management rather than competition.
8 Sept 2025
Synthetic Blood
A team of Researchers, led by Dr. Dipanjan Pan of Penn State, have been developing synthetic blood for over a decade to address critical needs in emergency and battlefield medicine. Their nanoparticle-based product mimics red blood cells, delivering oxygen safely without the need for blood type matching or refrigeration. Designed as emergency bridging therapy, it helps trauma patients during transport. Biodegradable and long-lasting, this innovation addresses critical gaps in emergency care, supported by a multi-disciplinary team and startup.
27 Jun 2025
Spotted Lanternfly
Dr. Julie Urban explains the Spotted Lanternfly's origins and agricultural threats, providing insights into potential solutions for preventing its spread in this interview episode.
27 Jun 2025
Diseases and Wildlife
Dr. Kurt Vandegrift demonstrates field research on ticks and mice to prevent epidemics, while Dr. Marilyn Roossinck discusses white-nose syndrome endangering bats in this interview episode about diseases in wildlife.
27 Jun 2025
Human and Environmental Health
Dr. Orfeu Buxton explores the impact of work on family health, Dr. Paul Morgan examines special education inequities, and Dr. Michael Mann discusses climate change politics in this interview episode.
27 Jun 2025
Helping Developing Countries
Researchers Jonathan Lynch, Tak-Sing Wong, Jose Duarte, and Shadi Nazarian discuss Penn State's work in developing countries, including plant development, waterless toilets, and 3D-printed housing, in an interview about global impact.
2 Dec 2019
The Family
Researchers discuss family-related issues in this episode, offering insights into contemporary family dynamics in an interview.
2 Dec 2019
Materials and You
Researchers discuss the ubiquitous nature of materials and their impact on everyday life in this episode, offering insights into the world around you.
2 Dec 2019
Climate Change
Researchers discuss climate change in this episode, providing insights into current research and potential future impacts in this interview episode.
2 Dec 2019
Technology
Researchers explore technology's multifaceted impact on humanity, discussing both its potential benefits and drawbacks in this interview episode.
Who has been a guest on REACH: Why. Research. Matters.
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Dr Julie Urban
Dr Kurt Vandegrift
Dr Marilyn Roossinck
Dr Orfeu Buxton
Dr Paul Morgan
Reach and audience
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