NPR
New analysis casts doubt on ‘biosignatures’ found on planet K2-18b
An interview about my independent, model-agnostic check of the JWST spectrum and why strong claims need strong evidence.
Sharing the science behind distant worlds.
Selected interviews, public talks and press coverage about my research on exoplanet atmospheres—including the scientific debate around possible biosignatures on K2-18b.
In the media
K2-18b in the headlines.
My independent analysis found no strong statistical evidence for spectral features in the published JWST MIRI data. These articles cover that result and the wider debate.
Smithsonian Magazine
A new analysis raises doubts about potential hints of life on a distant exoplanet
Coverage of my K2-18b analysis and the wider scientific response to the claimed biosignature gases.
Live Science
Did the James Webb telescope really find evidence of alien life?
A detailed guide to K2-18b, the reported DMS signal and my finding that the MIRI spectrum has no strong spectral features.
Space.com
Doubts over signs of alien life on exoplanet K2-18b are rising
A report on how independent checks, including my analysis, form part of the scientific process around K2-18b.
Exeter College, Oxford
Exeter Supernumerary Fellow challenges claims of alien life on exoplanet K2-18b
Exeter College profiles the analysis, its simple statistical approach and the need for caution when assessing biosignatures.
The Research Note is available open access: Are There Spectral Features in the MIRI/LRS Transmission Spectrum of K2-18b?
Watch
Interviews, talks and discussions.
Long-form conversations about JWST, exoplanet atmospheres and the search for life.
JWST discovered photochemistry in an exoplanet’s atmosphere
I join Dr Becky to explain the first evidence of photochemistry in an exoplanet atmosphere and why it matters.
In conversation with Dr Jake Taylor
A conversation about JWST’s study of exoplanet atmospheres, rapid data analysis and scientific collaboration.
K2-18b at Breakthrough Discuss 2025
A discussion with Professor Nikku Madhusudhan about K2-18b, the evidence for possible biosignatures and how to interpret the data.
‘New Worlds’ exoplanets panel
Professor Chris Lintott and I discuss new worlds as part of Oxford Physics’ Afternoon of Astrophysics series.
My work on YouTube
Research featured by other creators.
Selected videos that discuss or cite my work for a wider audience.
K2-18b: did JWST find life as we know it—or chemistry we don’t?
Dr Becky examines the 2025 K2-18b claim, the counterarguments and my independent reanalysis of the MIRI spectrum.
Let’s Talk About Claims of Alien Life on Planet K2-18b (New Studies)
Anton discusses my statistical counter-analysis of the K2-18b claim in this English-language update.
Have we found evidence of life on another planet?
This Italian-language overview of the K2-18b debate cites my independent reanalysis.
The Pride Lectures.
I founded and host Oxford Physics’ annual Pride Lecture series. It celebrates leading physicists and their contributions to both research and LGBTQ+ inclusion in STEM.
Read how the series began