Using AI to tackle water shortages and Scotland’s largest ever study into disability sport are the among topics in the latest series of a popular research podcast.

Research Matters explores the impactful research conducted at University of the West of Scotland (UWS), and how it is shaping the wider world. 

The first episode of the new series looks at a potentially game-changing project, which is using artificial intelligence to quickly detect leaks in pipes – saving billions of litres of water.

Project lead Professor Muhammad Zeeshan Shakir said: “Ninety per cent of underground pipe leaks never show above ground and around 30 per cent of the world’s treated drinking water is lost from pipeline networks before it ever reaches our taps; so this is a huge problem.

“Our technology shows the life-changing potential of artificial intelligence – and I’m pleased to have had the chance to talk about it on the Research Matters podcast.”

The second episode explores Scotland’s largest ever study into parasport, and the significant barriers to entry faced by participants.

 

Professor Gayle McPherson (pictured above), Director of the UWS Centre for Culture, Sport and Events - which carried out the study, said: “Our study is the largest of its kind – and it identified significant barriers faced by people with disabilities in accessing sport – including the cost of equipment and concerns about losing benefits.

“As part of our episode focusing on the study, my colleague Dr Liz Carlin and I discuss these – and share harrowing accounts from both athletes and non-athletes, which really highlight the need for change.”

This series, long-time Research Matters host Dr Catriona Fallow is joined by two new presenters – senior lecturer Dr Henry Bell and associate lecturer David Allan.

“One of the reasons I love presenting Research Matters is the diverse range of subjects we explore – and this series is no different."
Dr Catriona Fallow

Dr Fallow said: “One of the reasons I love presenting Research Matters is the diverse range of subjects we explore – and this series is no different. Each episode looks at a research project that varies drastically from the last, in a way that is both engaging and accessible.

“I’m pleased to be joined in the presenting team by Henry and David, and I hope our listeners enjoy our latest episodes – we’re absolutely delighted by the positive reception to the previous two series, and seeing the podcast appear in the Apple Science Podcast charts.”

The Research Matters podcast is available to download on most major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Amazon and Apple Podcasts.