In this episode of the 632nm podcast, we explore cutting-edge ideas in epigenetics and academic publishing. Oded Rechavi reveals how C. elegans worms defy conventional genetics by passing on traits through small RNAs, and discusses how these mechanisms might reshape our understanding of heredity. We also hear about a remarkable experiment hijacking Toxoplasma gondii—the so-called “cat parasite”—to deliver proteins into the brain, opening possible routes for new therapies.

Beyond the lab, we explore problems with modern publishing, from glacial review timelines to flawed incentives that push quantity over quality. Learn how AI-driven solutions might speed up peer review, allow scientists to focus on what truly matters, and help keep the spark of curiosity alive.

02:33 The Journey of Memeing on Twitter
06:50 Frustrations with Scientific Publishing
13:36 AI in Scientific Reviews
23:57 The Joys and Challenges of Academia
28:25 The Dead Sea Scrolls Project
45:15 Exploring Epigenetic Processes
47:16 Advantages of C. Elegans in Research
51:45 Transgenerational Epigenetic Inheritance
57:07 Challenges in Human Epigenetic Research
01:08:58 Model Organisms in Scientific Research
01:14:50 Innovative Brain Parasite Research
01:22:11 The State of Academic Science
01:29:19 Balancing Science and Life in Israel
01:32:00 Improving the Scientific System

Follow us:

Twitter: https://x.com/632nmPodcast

Substack: https://632nmpodcast.substack.com/

Michael Dubrovsky: https://x.com/MikeDubrovsky

Misha Shalaginov: https://x.com/MYShalaginov

Xinghui Yin: https://x.com/XinghuiYin

Subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/632nm/id1751170269

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4aVH9vT5qp5UUUvQ6Uf6OR

Website: https://www.632nm.com

In this episode of the 632nm podcast, we explore how diamond-based nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers went from being a curiosity in gemstone physics to a transformative tool for precision magnetometry. You’ll hear how these tiny defects enable room-temperature quantum sensing, providing ultra-high spatial resolution and remarkable resilience in extreme conditions—from planetary research unlocking secrets of our solar system’s earliest days to potential biomedical diagnostics. Our guest recounts the serendipitous connections, engineering challenges, and surprising scientific discoveries along the way.

We also discuss how interdisciplinary collaborations spark new ideas, how startups and academia differ in their pursuit of quantum breakthroughs, and why community-driven science can accelerate major scientific leaps.

00:42 The Fascination with Diamonds and NV Centers
02:58 Early Research and Collaborations
10:21 Breakthroughs and Applications in Science
50:48 Advancements in Magnetic Imaging
51:59 Commercial Applications of Quantum Diamond Microscopes
01:02:16 Challenges in Translating Research to Products
01:11:11 Future Prospects and Innovations
01:36:46 Exploring Quantum Systems and Defects
01:39:03 The Harvard Quantum Community
01:44:53 Precision Measurement and Quantum Applications
01:54:28 Advice for Aspiring Scientists

*Follow us:*
Twitter: https://x.com/632nmPodcast
Substack: https://632nmpodcast.substack.com/
Michael Dubrovsky: https://x.com/MikeDubrovsky
Misha Shalaginov: https://x.com/MYShalaginov
Xinghui Yin: https://x.com/XinghuiYin

*Subscribe:*
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/632nm/id1751170269
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4aVH9vT5qp5UUUvQ6Uf6OR
Website: https://www.632nm.com

In this episode, Jeremy England reframes the origin of life debate by applying non-equilibrium physics, challenging the notion that life’s emergence must be purely biological or chemical. He describes how matter can “learn” from its environment, drawing on examples from spin glasses, protein folding, and resonating mechanical systems.

England also shares how his deep engagement with religious texts—and his unexpected cameo as “the next Darwin” in popular media—shaped his understanding of science and spirituality. From his ordination as a rabbi to his groundbreaking thermodynamic research, England offers a unique perspective on the interplay between faith, scientific inquiry, and the age-old search for meaning.

Chapters:
02:59 Jeremy's Journey into Biophysics
08:46 Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics
35:30 Dissipative Adaptation and Evolutionary Principles
44:34 The Evolution of Energy Consumption
51:35 Thermodynamics in Microbiomes and Ecology
57:18 Protein Folding and Cellular Computation
01:01:43 Origins of Life and Prebiotic Scenarios
01:26:02 Exploring Thermodynamic Constraints on Aging
01:31:48 Science, Religion, and the Infinite Regress
01:36:04 Jewish Law and Modern Materials
01:39:47 Torah's Approach to Existence
02:01:56 Moses' Signs and Worldview
02:09:03 Balancing Practicality and Spirituality
02:14:02 Advice for Aspiring Scientists

More About Jeremy:

Twitter: Jeremy England (@lifelikephysics) / X

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Every-Life-Fire-Thermodynamics-Explains/dp/1541699017

Follow us:

Twitter: https://x.com/632nmPodcast

Substack: https://632nmpodcast.substack.com/

Michael Dubrovsky: https://x.com/MikeDubrovsky

Misha Shalaginov: https://x.com/MYShalaginov

Xinghui Yin: https://x.com/XinghuiYin

Subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/632nm/id1751170269

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4aVH9vT5qp5UUUvQ6Uf6OR

Website: https://www.632nm.com