Burley McCoy

Burley McCoy, a producer at NPR, dives into the fascinating world of AI in protein science. He shares insights on AlphaFold3, a groundbreaking AI from Google DeepMind that revolutionizes protein structure prediction. The conversation highlights how this technology is not just improving our understanding of proteins but also tackling pressing challenges like diseases and climate change. McCoy explains how AI is paving the way for innovative protein design, creating solutions that could significantly impact global health and sustainability.

Burley McCoy, a producer at Short Wave, shares insights on the controversial reintroduction of grey wolves to Yellowstone National Park three decades ago. He explores how this decision aimed to rebalance the ecosystem by controlling elk populations but reveals that the narrative isn't that simple. The discussion dives into the complex interactions between wolves, elk, and aspen trees, challenging the notion that wolves are solely responsible for ecological changes. McCoy also highlights the challenges of wolf reintroduction beyond Yellowstone, addressing local human conflicts and differing ecological contexts.

Justin Tooze, a Madison firefighter who trains on ice rescues, and Burley McCoy, a field reporter covering winter lake ice. They walk through festival life on frozen lakes. They explain safe vs unsafe ice, demonstrate rescue drills and immersion suits. They highlight deceptive thaw‑refreeze shelves and how warming winters shorten ice seasons and raise risk for people on the ice.