Science & Medicine

Episode 270: Davida Smyth

When Antonie van Leeuwenhoek devised his microscope in 1676, it was not to study bacteria, says this microbiologist: “He designed it so he could look at thread; he was a draper.” Thus an amateur – a tailor – sparked a scientific revolution. A conversation with a champion of citizen scientists at KGB’s Red Room, produced with Lori Schwarz and 500 Women Scientists. Music by Emily Cavanagh and Andrew Miramonte.

Person: van Leeuwenhoek
Place: New York Irish Center

Thing: a toilet

Randy’s Person: Harry Beck