Science: In her Issues and Perspectives column, Elisabeth Pain describes the ways that scientists can participate directly in debates about policies that affect or are affected by their research. Nanotechnology, climate change, and human stem cells are three currently controversial areas where it could be in scientists’ best interests to engage policymakers. On the other hand, as Pain points out:
Be aware that, as you align your research questions more closely to policy issues, you’re also exposing yourself publicly. As the public debate about climate change reminds us, it can get nasty, so you’d better be prepared.
Pain’s article provides links to resources than can provide that preparation.
The finding that the Saturnian moon may host layers of icy slush instead of a global ocean could change how planetary scientists think about other icy moons as well.
Modeling the shapes of tree branches, neurons, and blood vessels is a thorny problem, but researchers have just discovered that much of the math has already been done.
January 29, 2026 12:52 PM
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