life
science
science October 20, 2018
The science of saving the Barrier Reef
While political debate rages over the funding of Great Barrier Reef projects, CSIRO and Australian Institute of Marine Science researchers are determining the best approaches for the reef’s restoration and survival
science April 14, 2018
The neuroscience of thrillseeking
While neuroscience studies are finding differences in the brains of people who are excited by risky behaviour, thrillseekers say anyone can turn fear into a challenge.
science September 9, 2017
Long theorised and disputed, ‘quantum entanglement’ could transform technology as much as the digital revolution did – and its implications may even reshape our understanding of reality.
science October 21, 2017
Memory systems and ancient knowledge
Studies of how cultures without writing maintained their scientific knowledge in ritual, dance and song have led to a better appreciation of their complex understanding of the world
science June 2, 2017
A new handheld DNA sequencer is releasing scientists from the confines of their labs, aiding in projects from treating contaminated water to potentially testing for life on Mars.
science March 18, 2017
Geoengineering against climate change
While some scientists claim solar geoengineering could be our last, best hope to deal with climate change, others say it will open the door to entirely new risks.
science March 11, 2017
Ancient Aboriginal DNA and repatriations
A new genetics study into the movements of First Australians will bolster the campaign for the return of Aboriginal remains held in institutions around the world.
science February 18, 2017
Britain has approved an IVF technique to prevent mitochondrial disease from being passed on to children, resulting in babies with three biological parents.
science January 28, 2017
Drug research and lived experience
Few researchers working with prohibited drugs such as heroin and psychedelics admit ‘inside knowledge’ of their use, but some argue that the culture of non-disclosure is irresponsible.
science December 17, 2016
Inconclusive studies haven’t deterred enthusiasts from claiming marijuana as a performance-enhancing drug, from Ganja Yoga to the world’s first ‘cannabis gym’.
science November 26, 2016
New Safe Confinement in Chernobyl
Thirty years since the world’s worst nuclear accident, engineers are sliding a giant shield over the Chernobyl reactor to finally enable its deconstruction and decontamination.
