Tiny Matters
Take a dive into the genes, microbes, molecules and other tiny things that have a big impact on our world with Tiny Matters. Join scientists Sam Jones and Deboki Chakravarti as they take apart complex and contentious topics in science and help rebuild your understanding. From deadly diseases to ancient sewers to forensic toxicology, Sam and Deboki embrace the awe and messiness of science and its place in the past, present, and future.
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In the 1970s, the rape kit began as a simple box with some envelopes, a comb, nail clippers, and a few other basic tools. The contents of the kit have evolved somewhat since then, but the technology to analyze samples has evolved astronomically. And, through and through, the rape kit has stood for the idea that every survivor has the right to go to a hospital, get a full forensic exam, and have their evidence taken seriously. On today's episode, we talk about how the rape kit became a reality and the woman who championed the rape kit into the tool it is today. We also discuss what the future of the rape kit could look like, how the rape kit backlog has grown of control in some states, and what activists are doing about it.
- The rape kit: From controversial 1970s invention to ending the backlog today
- [BONUS] Double rainbows and mysterious chromosomes: Tiny Show and Tell Us #18
- Not just a ‘royal disease’: Hemophilia’s devastating past to recent advances
- [BONUS] Fungus farming ants and disappointing orange juice: Tiny Show and Tell Us #17
Hosts

Sam Jones, PhD
Science Writer & Exec Producer

Deboki Chakravarti, PhD
Science Writer & Co-Host
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After years of producing quality episodes, Orbitals has bid farewell to our followers at the end of 2021.
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