Episode description

The United States is the world’s science superpower. But right now, much of its research community is in a state of confusion.

In the past few weeks, the Trump administration has issued a huge number of orders – amongst them, large funding cuts for scientific institutions. We unpick what the implications are for the country’s role on the global scientific stage.

Also in the programme, we take another look at phone bans in schools. Why are the results of a recent study so different to the personal experience of teachers and students?

And Britain has a new snake – and it’s apparently thriving. Where has it come from and should we be worried?

To discover more fascinating science content, head to bbc.co.uk search for BBC Inside Science and follow the links to The Open University.

Presenter: Victoria Gill Producers: Ilan Goodman & Sophie Ormiston Editor: Martin Smith Production Co-ordinator: Josie Hardy