Science Moab

Peggy Hodgkins
  • 4.9 (35)
  • SCIENCE
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

A podcast exploring the science and learning about the scientists from southeast Utah and the Colorado Plateau. Produced by Science Moab and KZMU.

  1. Unveiling Ozone

    MAR 3

    Unveiling Ozone

    There is good ozone and bad ozone. We are discussing the bad ozone today, the one we breathe and can be harmful to our health. Daniel Mendoza, a research associate professor at the University of Utah, discusses the chemistry behind ozone formation, primarily from nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds intensified by sunlight. Daniel has started a project to measure air quality and heat in rural Utah communities, using both indoor and outdoor sensors. The discussion includes the challenges of ozone measurement, the role of vegetation like sagebrush in VOC emissions, and the potential benefits of using public cooling centers as environmental refuges. The episode underscores the need for more awareness and education about ozone's health impacts, especially for tourists in areas like Moab.

    23 min
  2. A Modern Wonder from Ancient Dunes: The Iconic Navajo Sandstone, Part 2

    FEB 17

    A Modern Wonder from Ancient Dunes: The Iconic Navajo Sandstone, Part 2

    ​​This episode of Science Moab continues the exploration of the Navajo sandstone with Marjorie Chan, Professor Emeritus at the University of Utah. The unique coloration of the sandstone is influenced by iron oxides that have analogies with the iron oxide 'blueberries' found on Mars and have implications for groundwater evidence on the planet. Margie elaborates on the concretions and weathering patterns within the Navajo sandstone and how these differ from the Wingate sandstone. We also discuss the challenges of geological research funding, the importance of fieldwork partnerships, and the significance of preserving natural geological features and educating the public on their value.

    22 min
  3. A Modern Wonder from Ancient Dunes: The Iconic Navajo Sandstone, Part 1

    FEB 3

    A Modern Wonder from Ancient Dunes: The Iconic Navajo Sandstone, Part 1

    The majestic and iconic Navajo Sandstone has become ubiquitous in scenes from the Colorado Plateau. Margie Chan, Professor Emeritus at the University of Utah, has studied the Navajo Sandstone her entire career and we discuss the deposition and unique features of this Jurassic wind-blown sand. This ancient desert extended across much of Utah, Arizona, and Nevada, and combined different geological structures including dunes, lake deposits, and springs. In this first of a 2-part series, we talk about the key role that groundwater plays in the sediment deformation and coloring. The next episode delves into the role of iron in the Navajo sandstone and its connection to Mars.

    21 min
  4. PALEONTOLOGY PASSION: A School to Science Story

    JAN 6

    PALEONTOLOGY PASSION: A School to Science Story

    This show is part of a series exploring Science Moab’s School to Science Program, connecting students with scientists in the field, the lab, and beyond. This program began in 2021 and to date has mentored over 57 local students. In this episode, we talk with Chris Moriera, a recent graduate of the Grand County Student Career and Success Center and participant in the School to Science Program. Guest host Sasha Pereira explores Chris’s journey from high school to hands-on paleontology internships, his experiences with mentors and scientists, and the impact of these opportunities on his academic and career aspirations. Chris shares insights about the welcoming scientific community, the excitement of fieldwork, and the importance of mentorship. The episode also covers Chris’s achievements, including presenting research at a professional conference and earning a college scholarship. The conversation concludes with advice for students interested in science careers and Chris’s vision for making science accessible to future generations.

    20 min
  5. Drylands: The Dark Horse of Carbon Cycling

    12/02/2025

    Drylands: The Dark Horse of Carbon Cycling

    Drylands play a critical role in global ecosystems as well as the carbon cycle. We talk with ecologist Brooke Osborne about the fascinating world of biogeochemistry and dryland science. Covering 40% of the Earth's surface and hosting a third of the human population, heterogeneous drylands have low resource availability and therefore are highly sensitive to climatic changes. We discuss Brooke’s ongoing research into soil carbon storage and sequestration, particularly in the context of grazing practices and land management.

    24 min
  6. Nanosaurs & Good Lore

    11/04/2025

    Nanosaurs & Good Lore

    This show is part of a series exploring Science Moab’s School to Science Program, connecting students with scientists in the field, the lab, and beyond. In this episode, we talk with mentor Emily Lessner, paleontologist for the Bureau of Land Management, and Shadis McDaniel, a recent Grand County High School graduate. Shadis joined Emily on a couple of job shadows, both in the office and in the field.

    16 min
  7. The Miracle of Lichen

    10/21/2025

    The Miracle of Lichen

    A lichen is a colony of algae or cyanobacteria living interactively with fungus and bacteria in a mutual or symbiotic relationship, but for Steve Leavitt, a lichen is a  hotspot of diversity and  an indicator of ecological health. Steve is in charge of one of the largest lichen collections in North America at BYU where he teaches and directs the Life Science Museum. But most of all, Steve loves his research and being outside. We talk with Steve about how the unique factors on the Colorado Plateau contribute to diverse lichen communities, how lichens can be used as indicators of air quality, and the impacts of climate change on their distribution. Steve explains how advancements in genetics have led to a step-change in the study of lichens and the broader implications of studying lichens for understanding life on Earth.

    24 min
  8. Eureka at Cisco: Jurassic Mammals

    10/07/2025

    Eureka at Cisco: Jurassic Mammals

    Brian Davis, an associate professor at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, loves looking for small fossils. His research focuses on early mammals, particularly teeth, jaws, and skull parts. Brian’s most recent discovery is a mammal fossil quarry in Cisco, Utah, part of the Morrison Formation dating back to the Jurassic period. The site has yielded small animal fossils, including some potentially significant early mammals that correlate with a nearby site in Fruita, CO. We discuss the complexities of fossil excavation, preservation, and the analysis process as well as the importance of student education.

    22 min
See All (177)

4.9
out of 5
35 Ratings

About

A podcast exploring the science and learning about the scientists from southeast Utah and the Colorado Plateau. Produced by Science Moab and KZMU.

Information

  • Creator
    Peggy Hodgkins
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    177
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Science Moab

You Might Also Like