BBC experiments with science

The BBC has ordered new science programming including a major new series from Professor Brian Cox and a factual drama from Shameless scribe Ian Kershaw.

Human Universe (5×60′) will be produced by BBC Science for BBC2 and will explore what it means to be human. Cox, who previously hosted BBC2’s Wonders of Life and Science Britannica, will present the show with Andrew Cohen exec producer.

BBC2 has also ordered factual drama series Castles In The Sky, written by Kershaw, who previously created episodes of Channel 4 drama Shameless.

The programme follows the efforts by Scotsman Robert Watson Watt and other British scientists to invent Radar, and features Eddie Izzard as well as Laura Fraser (Breaking Bad). It is being produced by Hero Film & Television and Black Camel Pictures.

Meanwhile, Inside The Wildfire, from Dragonfly, will uncover in forensic detail how bushfires start in Australia, while Passionate Productions’ The Trial follows a number of patients as they embark on a unique clinical trial that could help to reverse Parkinson’s Disease.

BBC4 will broadcast two shows produced by BBC Science including Infested, which explores the relationship between humans and parasites, and Dissected, which sees a human foot and hand being taken apart to uncover how each works.

Janice Hadlow, controller of BBC2 and BBC4, said the “strong and varied mix of new commissions” showed the “incredible resurgence” of interest in science programming from viewers.