Whilst we look for alien life on other planets, this piece examines ctenophores – creatures closer to home that are “profoundly different from any other animal on Earth” – so much so in fact that they may be on an entirely different evolutionary path to their planetary cohabitants.
A piece looking at the huge number of cognitive biases human beings are lumbered with, from a bias against evidence that counters our existing views, to prioritising rewards in the present over increased returns in the future.
A piece documenting the opening up of Arctic sea routes, taking place as an unintended consequence of scientific exploration investigating the impact of climate change.
Superbugs that are resistant to antibiotics are one of the major global health concerns today. This piece looks at scientists’ efforts to develop new antibiotics to combat them.
A thoughtful and engaging piece examining the remarkable intelligence of the octopus – followed by an interview with the author in National Geographic.
A look at the challenges facing the teams based in the Democratic Republic of Congo searching for the next dangerous viruses. They are doing their work at a time when large scale outbreaks are ever more likely as humans encroach further into animal habitats.
An archaeologist takes a look at the part the humble stick has played in developing the cognitive processes of the human species – from our early origins, to Ronnie O’Sullivan’s record-breaking frame of snooker.
A look at the trees that escape the loggers’ attentions, the epic journeys they sometimes undertake, and their importance to numerous natural ecosystems.
A wide ranging look at recent advances in criminal forensics, from using hair for DNA matches, to the value of teeth bite matches, fingerprinting, arson investigations and facial reconstruction.
A piece on postpartum psychosis, by an author (and NHS Research Fellow) who experienced it herself after the birth of her daughter.