Police Box Science – The hidden science behind Doctor Who

Allons-y! In this captivating episode of Small Screen Science podcast, Karen and Emma explore the scientific principles behind the longest-running sci-fi series in the world – Doctor Who. They examine Einstein's theories of relativity as they relate to time travel, investigate the biology of regeneration in nature, and discuss the possibilities of nanotechnology and cryonics as portrayed in classic episodes.

The Access Blog

3 minutes

by Emma Slater

Curriculum & Learning Expert

Posted 14/05/2025

Blog header Police Box Science – The hidden science behind Doctor Who

Want to know if you'd prefer to travel to the past or future like the Doctor? According to a YouGov poll discussed in the episode, 58% of people would choose to visit the past while only 28% would venture into the future. Interestingly, 18-24 year olds are more likely to want to travel to the future than those over 6

Watch…

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ka0hbd2EX0ZjvFBqnBDMU

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/small-screen-science/id1511181067

Fun Fact

Did you know there are real-life immortal organisms that can "regenerate" somewhat like the Doctor? The Turritopsis dohrnii jellyfish (nicknamed the "immortal jellyfish") can revert from its mature stage back to its juvenile polyp stage when exposed to environmental stress, physical assault, or when it becomes sick or old. Through a process called transdifferentiation, it transforms differentiated cells into new types of cells, essentially restarting its life cycle. Theoretically, this cycle can continue indefinitely if the jellyfish isn't killed – making it biologically immortal! No wonder scientists in aging research and pharmaceuticals are studying these fascinating creatures so closely!

Listener Challenge

We're fascinated by the intersection of fictional technology and real-world science! Your challenge: Research the "sonic screwdriver" concept and find a real-world example of how ultrasound technology is being used in innovative ways in medicine or engineering today. Has there been any progress since the 2016 University of Bristol experiment mentioned in our episode? What other Doctor Who technologies might be closer to reality than we think?

Access GCSEPod Science Resources

Want to use this episode in your classroom? Here are some discussion points to explore with students:

How does Einstein's theory of relativity explain the relationship between gravity, speed, and time?
Explore regeneration in nature – which animals can regrow limbs or organs, and how might this inform medical research?
Discuss the ethics of cryonics – what are the scientific challenges and philosophical questions it raises?
How do storytelling techniques in science fiction help engage viewers while potentially increasing scientific literacy?

Listen to the full episode of Small Screen Science wherever you get your podcasts!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ka0hbd2EX0ZjvFBqnBDMU
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/small-screen-science/id1511181067

Meet Emma, who is dedicated to supporting schools in their pursuit of digital learning excellence. 10 Years experience as a Lead Practitioner and Head of English in LEA and Trust run schools across SE London developed her passion for developing knowledge and skills rich curriculum. As a PiXL Associate working with 100’s of schools up and down the country and as an author of T&L resources for OUP, Collins and York Notes she gained a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the education sector.

Her dedication to education led her to a pivotal role as Director of Education at Access GCSEPod, where she merged her love for education with her publishing experience to pioneer a values-driven approach to EdTech. Emma championed the cause of providing diverse and inclusive learning content that delivers a rich curriculum in a form that supports all pupils to learn succeed.

Now, at The Access Group, Emma brings her skills and experience in strategy, education, and product development to oversee the growth and delivery of innovative 'big ideas' that support the education sector. Her passion for supporting schools in their curriculum journey is deeply rooted in her extensive classroom experience.