THE RATIO PODCAST

In this episode, we look back at our ancient ancestors and uncover the marks they left in our genes.

We spoke with Dr. Jonathan Pettitt, Reader in Genetics at the University of Aberdeen and discussed:

• What is the connection between Homo Sapiens, Neanderthals, and Denisovans?
• Which is Jonathan’s favorite hominin (because of course, he has one)?
• Can we pinpoint some specific traits our ancestors had, and we don’t?
• Which living organism has the most complex genome and what is junk DNA?
• What are the genetic benefits of being funny or crying?
• Can we build a genetic map of the world?

Turns out we may well be the prehistoric sissies – but we got all the way to recording podcasts like this one.

If you like the podcast, you can support us at patreon.com/ratiobg.

About the guest

Jonathan Pettitt is a Reader in Genetics at the University of Aberdeen where he studies nematodes – a type of parasitic worm that’s very important in medicine and agriculture. He talks on many different topics related to genetics, especially the genetics of human populations.

Jonathan is strongly committed to public engagement with genetics. He also does stand-up comedy based on his research. He took part in the “Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas” during the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh. He was the genetics consultant for Helen Keen’s book, “The Science of Game of Thrones”.

About the podcast

Ratio Podcast is a program for intellectually curious people. We’re having informal conversations, connected with or inspired by science. Bear in mind, we’re not experts on basically anything – but thankfully most of our guests are.

You can check out more episodes via RSS, in Stitcher, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and SoundCloud. Most episodes are in Bulgarian, but we do interviews with international guests, as well.