Primary Navigation

Plant & Food Research has merged with AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research and Scion to form the Bioeconomy Science Institute

Podcast

Life in the wind: The hidden world of airborne microbes

08 Nov 2026

00:00

00:00

What’s floating in the air around us, and where does it come from and where does it go? Scientist and Scigest host Hilary Ireland chats with microbiologist Steve Archer about the fascinating world of airborne microorganisms, from microbes travelling across oceans to their role in shaping ecosystems even down in Antarctica. Discover how this invisible world could help us better understand biodiversity, predict the spread of pests and protect Aotearoa’s biosecurity. With insights from Steve’s research, this episode explores the science of airborne life and the mysteries researchers are still trying to solve. If you missed the previous episode with Steve, where we discussed his journey into science and some of the experiences and projects that have shaped his career, you can catch up here on our Scigest pages: www.plantandfood.com/science-life-for-me

Interested?

Get in touch