Alan was all set on majoring in biology, but then he realized he liked writing about science more than doing research, so he left Hong Kong and went to study journalism in the U.S. After interning at NPR and WBEZ in Chicago, he has never wanted to work anywhere outside of public radio. He covers space and all other kinds of innovation. He enjoys comic books, LEGO, and dragon boating.
More from the Contributor
Philly men redefining masculinity in #MeToo era
The groups look deeper at problems in male culture that contribute to sexual harassment and violence.
6 years ago
Listen 5:50
Why we like sparkling water: The science behind the fizz
Bubbly water purveyors say “a good seltzer should hurt.” The acidity in carbonated drinks lights up the pain receptors in nerve endings — in a way that pleases the tongue.
6 years ago
Is it safe for your dog to drink from the toilet?
Dogs who drink toilet water are a health risk to themselves and maybe to the entire family.
6 years ago
Listen 3:10
Can behavioral scientists help make city government more effective?
The city of Philadelphia is working with scientists in the area to boost voter turnout for the 2019 municipal elections.
6 years ago
Why put carpets in cars, when they’re so hard to clean?
Leaves, paper, crumbs and other bits of trash cling to auto carpets — don’t even mention the liquid stains and smells.
6 years ago
Listen 7:23
Scientists say Gab, social network with Philly ties, is an incubator of hate
The suspected gunman in Saturday’s shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue frequently posted anti-Semitic comments on the social media site Gab, which is headquartered in Philly.
6 years ago
Pa., N.J., and Del. upgrading voting machines — not in time for midterms
The three states use electronic voting machines that can be hacked, and don’t have a paper trail to facilitate vote audits.
6 years ago
Pa. moves to loosen requirements for court-ordered outpatient mental health treatment
The state is one of the last to move away from a 1970s standard that said someone had to be a “clear and present danger.” But the shift is controversial.
6 years ago
So what’s the climate change/asthma connection?
Warming temperatures worsen ozone pollution. Excess carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) causes plants to grow faster and release more pollen — extending the “allergy” season.
6 years ago
Listen 8:46
Acupuncture: real relief or theatrical placebo?
Alan Yu heads home to Hong Kong to investigate the ways acupuncture is used in the medical system there.
6 years ago
Listen 13:20
Opera raises curtain on living with schizophrenia
The idea is to address the stigma of mental illness with music. The opera is based on a memoir from a law and psychiatry professor.
6 years ago