Jim Al-Khalili explores the idea of the public scientist via the life of Julian Huxley. Can being a media figure and communicator be reconciled with the world of academic science?

Through the life and work of Julian Huxley, Jim Al-Khalili explores the idea of the public scientist. Huxley was a member of the BBC's Brains Trust and a founder of UNESCO. He also invented the Children's Zoo at London Zoo. He wrote accessible books on evolution. But how did being a media figure, committed to the public understanding, square with the world of academic science? And where does Huxley's influence lie to this day? Without Huxley no Brian Cox?

Producer Tim Dee.