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This week in science: Sunscreen from fish, art and aging, and a sustainable marimba

NPR | By Regina G. Barber,

Emily Kwong

Published May 14, 2026 at 4:09 PM CDT

NPR's science podcast Short Wave brings us the stories of how future sunscreens might come from fish, how loving art may impact aging, and a student's quest to build a more sustainable marimba.

Regina G. Barber

Regina G. Barber is Short Wave's Scientist in Residence. She contributes original reporting on STEM and guest hosts the show.

Emily Kwong

Emily Kwong (she/her) is the reporter for NPR's daily science podcast, Short Wave. The podcast explores new discoveries, everyday mysteries and the science behind the headlines — all in about 10 minutes, Monday through Friday.

See stories by Emily Kwong