The first switchable catalyst for asymmetric catalysis based on a molecular motor. In chemistry, chirality refers to a molecule that exists in two forms that are mirror images to one another—much like…
Astronomers Cast Doubt on the Cosmological Principle
Recent studies incorporating gamma-ray bursts have yielded interesting new results that cast doubt on the validity of the cosmological principle. The big bang theory is based on two assumptions: the first is…
Automating the Production of Advanced Materials
Engineers create a robotic platform to automate the production of new, functional polymers for advanced materials. The robotic revolution is accelerating as the capabilities of robots expand, leading us toward a more…
Philae Marks the First Ever Soft Landing on a Comet
In 2014, scientists achieved the first ever soft landing on a comet, forever pushing the boundaries of space exploration. On November 14, 2014, the Philae lander accomplished the first ever soft landing…
Study Reveals Hepatitis A Originated in Insects
Unraveling the mystery of viral evolution, scientists discover a similarity between hepatitis A and the Triatoma virus that infects blood-sucking kissing bugs. Hepatitis viruses are major threats to human health, resulting in…
Beyond gene editing: A new role for CRISPR
A new use for the revolutionary gene-splicing tool. This new “Electrochemical CRISPR” can quickly and accurately identify viral biomarkers for a range of diseases, including HPV and Parvovirus. CRISPR gene editing tools…
Treating Cancer Using Lessons from NASA
The ways astronauts prep for spaceflight could benefit cancer patients, researchers say. Memorial Sloan Kettering Exercise Physiologist Dan Townend conducts a cardiopulmonary exercise test to assess cardiorespiratory fitness on Catherine Lee. Image…
The Role of Narrative in Science
To what extent should storytelling be used in communicating scientific discoveries? Storytelling is a part of being human. We engage and connect with well-told stories and remember them far longer than other…
Children Born Today Will Suffer the Most as a Result of Climate Change
Our ability to act against the climate emergency will determine a range of possible futures outcomes, but ultimately it is a choice between continuing with “business as usual” or taking direct measures…
Pioneers in Science: Lise Meitner
Illustration: Kieran O’Brien The splitting of the atom was a discovery that would change the world forever. In continuation of our Pioneers in Science series, this week we highlight Lise Meitner for…