Wellcome has announced the return of its acclaimed podcast When Science Finds a Way for its third season.
Hosted by botanist-turned-Hollywood actor and science advocate Alisha Wainwright, the series explores the human side of scientific discovery and how research connects to everyday lives.
Across eight weekly episodes, the podcast will feature stories from India, South Africa, Brazil, Ghana, Nigeria and the UK.
Each episode highlights how inclusive research developed in partnership with communities can drive lasting change, from school-based mental health support and vaccine equity to climate-conscious diets and early warning systems for disease outbreaks.
Alisha Wainwright said: “What I find most rewarding this season is hearing such a wide range of voices – researchers, health workers, artists, teachers, patients and community leaders, each bringing their own perspective on science and health.
“My goal is to guide listeners through these conversations with empathy and clarity so that, whether you work in research or are simply curious about how health shapes our lives, the discussions feel relevant, engaging and thought-provoking.”
The season opens with an episode on the therapeutic power of the arts. Professor Daisy Fancourt shares how her research has shaped UK policy on creative health, demonstrating how arts engagement can improve wellbeing and social outcomes.
Also featured, is Nigerian artist Kunle Adewale, whose personal mental health journey led to international projects, and a UK mother called Vanessa, who describes how joining a singing-based clinical trial helped her navigate postnatal depression.
Another highlight features Dr Aimee Grant discussing Autism: from Menstruation to Menopause, a study entirely designed and delivered by autistic people to address gaps in reproductive healthcare.
Members of the project’s Community Council also share their experience of shaping fully inclusive research teams.
Later episodes include conversations with Professor Vikram Patel about school-based mental health programmes in India, supported by counsellors such as Bindiya Chodankar, who provides tools to help students manage stress.
Professor Pete Scarborough discusses new approaches to encourage food choices that benefit both health and the climate, while shopper Jo explains her personal experience of testing one of the tools.
The series also examines vaccine equity across Africa. Dr Delese Mimi Darko, CEO of Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority, and the CEO of South Africa’s Biovac discuss collaborative efforts to expand local manufacturing.
They reflect on lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic, when fewer than 1% of vaccines used in Africa were produced on the continent, and outline Biovac’s ambition to develop an Oral Cholera Vaccine with full production by 2030.
Season three of When Science Finds a Way will be available on all major podcast platforms from 10 September, with new episodes every Wednesday.
