opinion articles

Send us a link

Subscribe to our newsletter

Racism in Science: We Need to Act Now

Racism in Science: We Need to Act Now

It is easy to make excuses – the legacy of historic racism is so strong that there are not a lot of senior Black scientists to choose from, and those that have survived the gauntlet are in demand and overcommitted, and so on and so forth. But these excuses are lame.

How Can Any Scientists Stand by This Government Now?

How Can Any Scientists Stand by This Government Now?

The Cummings saga has made it plain that scientific advisers are shielding the government's collapsing reputation on coronavirus, says Lancet editor Richard Horton.

Six Tips for Data Sharing in the Age of the Coronavirus

Six Tips for Data Sharing in the Age of the Coronavirus

Researchers are rushing to pool resources and data sets to tackle the pandemic, but the new era of openness comes with concerns around privacy, ownership and ethics.

These Are The Fake Experts Pushing Pseudoscience And Conspiracy Theories About The Coronavirus Pandemic

These Are The Fake Experts Pushing Pseudoscience And Conspiracy Theories About The Coronavirus Pandemic

A guide to the spin doctors and conspiracy theorists clogging up your social media feed.

Why America's Students, Colleges and Universities Deserve More Financial Relief

Why America's Students, Colleges and Universities Deserve More Financial Relief

 A more substantial investment of $47 billion is needed to meet the needs of families and schools as they prepare for the next academic year.

Empathy and Grit - Not Just Publication Records - Should Be Considered in Researcher Assessment

Empathy and Grit - Not Just Publication Records - Should Be Considered in Researcher Assessment

Critics of current methods for evaluating researchers’ work say a system that relies on bibliometric parameters favours a ‘quantity over quality’ approach, and undervalues achievements such as social impact and leadership.

Ensuring the Pandemic Doesn't Negatively Impact Women in STEM, Especially Those of Color

Ensuring the Pandemic Doesn't Negatively Impact Women in STEM, Especially Those of Color

The pandemic will negatively impact the careers of women in STEM, particularly those of color, and failure to respond could jeopardize years of progress toward faculty equity. 

Speeding Up Science During the Pandemic

Speeding Up Science During the Pandemic

It is testament to the machinery of science that so much has been learned about covid-19 so rapidly. Since January the number of publications has been doubling every 14 days, reaching 1,363 in the past week alone. They have covered everything from the genetics of the virus that causes the disease to computer models of its spread and the scope for vaccines and treatments. What explains the speed? Much as in other areas of life, covid-19 has burnt away encrusted traditions.

Sure, the Velociraptors Are Still On the Loose, But That's No Reason Not to Reopen Jurassic Park

Sure, the Velociraptors Are Still On the Loose, But That's No Reason Not to Reopen Jurassic Park

Trump is shrugging off warnings by scientists that the easing restrictions taking place across the country could cause tens of thousands of death.