Science Policy

What gets published? Sweeping analysis shows prestige, topic and location matter most

A University of Colorado Boulder-led study analyzed over 110,000 manuscript submissions to top-tier scientific journals, revealing that prestige, topic, and location matter most in determining publication. The study found a significant disadvantage for authors based in China and those studying social sciences.

CHEST urges US government to protect research that advances patient care

The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) submitted comments on proposed federal policies governing research grants, emphasizing the need for stable funding and predictable oversight. The organization argues that policy changes could compromise the continuity of scientific discovery, ultimately weakening patient care.

PLOS responds to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) proposed rule

The proposed OMB rule change would fundamentally alter how federal research funding is allocated in the US, compromising research independence and restricting international collaboration. PLOS argues that costs linked to making research available should be assessed against public and economic value, rather than being unallowable.

Scientists’ credibility depends on audience and perceived motives

A new study identifies five audience 'classes' based on people's perceptions of scientists' credibility, including enthusiasts, optimists, moderates, skeptics, and estranged. Researchers found that public estimates of scientific credibility differ depending on the topic and audience class.

Association for Molecular Pathology announces results of 2026 leadership elections

The Association for Molecular Pathology has elected new leaders for several committees, including Genetics, Hematopathology, Infectious Diseases, Informatics, and Solid Tumors. The newly elected leaders will work together to drive the organization's mission forward.

Simple digital check-ins improve outcomes for cancer patients, AFT study finds

A new study found that simple weekly electronic symptom check-ins with care teams significantly improves the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment for advanced cancer. The benefits were notable among patient groups that historically faced barriers to care, including Black patients and those with less formal education.

Living labs in agricultural, food and nutrition research: How they can be designed for success

Living labs in agricultural, food and nutrition research facilitate stakeholder collaboration to identify problems and develop solutions. Long-term funding perspectives are essential for efficient and successful research.

Carnegie Mellon-led research shows how behavioral science silently protects American consumers and patients

A new PNAS special feature showcases the critical role of behavioral and decision sciences in U.S. governance, highlighting how psychological and economic research protect public health, consumer rights, and finances across federal agencies. The research demonstrates how 'invisible' scientific frameworks streamline medical drug reviews...

European survey reveals broad support for fertility care, embryo research and genome editing, alongside opportunities for greater public engagement

A new Europe-wide survey found broad public support for fertility treatment and reproductive research in the UK, Netherlands, Spain, and Italy. The study suggests that public understanding and opinion on these topics continue to develop, with areas where public views are not yet settled identified.

Goethe University launches Science Diplomacy Award

The Goethe Science Diplomacy Award honors researchers who strengthen academic freedom, international cooperation, and dialogue in challenging contexts. Prof. Hande Birkalan-Gedik and Dr. Ulrich Kuch received the award for their contributions to building bridges between academia and civil society.

Supporting ecosystem monitoring: SELINA publishes two new policy briefs on ecosystem pressures and condition

Two new policy briefs support evidence-based decision-making in EU environmental policies, including the Nature Restoration Regulation and Biodiversity Strategy 2030. The briefs provide a framework for monitoring ecosystem pressures and recovery across the European Union.

AACR releases Cancer Disparities Progress Report 2026

The AACR Cancer Disparities Progress Report 2026 highlights the progress being made against cancer disparities while also raising awareness of the disproportionate toll that cancer continues to exact on certain populations. The report calls for continued federal support for cancer disparities research to ensure that advances against ca...

US biomedical innovation leadership at risk: New data show China rapidly closing gap as clinical trials and manufacturing migrate abroad

The US retains its scientific edge but is losing the race to translate discoveries into cures, warns a new report from Cure Innovation Index. Without immediate renewed investment and policy changes, the US scientific edge will not hold.

Global rice production nearly doubled despite climate change, driven largely by human management

A new study found that global rice production nearly doubled between the 1960s and 2010s due to increased irrigation and nutrient inputs. Climate change reduced rice production by an estimated 7% between 2006 and 2015, but elevated atmospheric CO2 levels contributed to improved water-use efficiency and enhanced photosynthesis.

Policy recommendations in climate-related research often ‘an afterthought’, major analysis finds

A major new analysis of over 3000 scientific papers on climate change mitigation found that policy recommendations are often non-existent, disconnected from the study's findings, or 'wish lists'. The researchers created a tool to assess the quality of policy recommendations and identified key challenges, including unclear uncertainty a...

American Society for Nutrition (ASN) and The Obesity Society (TOS) announce new strategic alliance to advance health through nutrition and obesity science

The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) and The Obesity Society (TOS) have formed a strategic alliance to accelerate progress in both fields. This collaboration will drive evidence-based solutions that shape practice, inform policy, and improve health outcomes worldwide.

Alliance digital tool proves effective at keeping patients engaged in trials

A pilot study of the Participant Engagement Portal (PEP) tool shows that 84% of participants had a positive experience, with high usability and satisfaction rates. PEP facilitates two-way communication between patients and clinicians, allowing for self-reporting of social risk factors and future research opportunities.

Wildfire emissions have reversed more than a decade of steady reductions in ozone

Research reveals a post-2015 increase in wildfire emissions has halted steady decreases in surface ozone trends in North America, leading to premature mortality and public health concerns. The study attributes an additional 318 deaths per year to wildfire-sourced ozone emissions, highlighting the need for stricter air quality standards.

The African Engineering and Technology Network signs tenth university partner

The African Engineering and Technology Network (Afretec) has signed its tenth university partner, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU), to drive digital transformation in Africa. The network, led by Carnegie Mellon University Africa, aims to create long-term sustained change across the continent through research, educa...

DFG to fund 13 new collaborative research centers

The DFG is establishing 13 new Collaborative Research Centres to support innovative and long-term research projects. The CRCs will focus on topics such as mechanophores, bone tissue remodelling, planetary habitability, and food system diversification.

New PLOS report identifies scholarly publishing pathways to support open science

A new PLOS report proposes a 'knowledge stack' publishing model to better support open science. This model connects articles with associated outputs like data, code, and methods to create a structured, open record of research. The report highlights the need for coordinated action beyond publishing to address challenges in existing models.

Widespread generative AI use demands reform in higher education assessment

The study reveals widespread GenAI use among students, with higher adoption in STEM fields and notable differences across disciplines. The findings raise concerns about unequal access to AI tools and literacy, highlighting the need for reforms tailored to individual disciplines.

Food and drink litter dominates global plastic pollution

A global study of marine litter has identified food and beverage plastics as the leading contributors to ocean pollution, with plastic packaging, caps, and bottles dominating shoreline debris worldwide. The research highlights the urgent need for reduced plastic production and more efficient waste management practices.

Tahiyat Rahman named 2026-2027 Optica/Materials Research Society Congressional Fellow

Tahiyat Rahman, a physics Ph.D. holder, will work on policy investing in workforce and training for quantum technologies and materials manufacturing. As a Congressional Fellow, they aim to build public consensus around science policy.

Agriculture and conservation share common ground after Klamath dam removals, study finds

Researchers found that farmers and conservation groups share priorities on future uncertainty, collaboration, ecosystem-based approach, and creative management options. The study aims to improve dialogue and support effective management in the Klamath Basin and inform future river restoration efforts.

University of Utah to launch groundbreaking DARPA-backed critical minerals testbed

The University of Utah is launching a groundbreaking testbed, SMART, to accelerate the development of breakthrough technologies in rare earth elements. The initiative aims to strengthen domestic supply chains and address the nation's growing need for critical minerals.

The world’s most groundbreaking stem cell advances are coming to San Francisco for ISSCR 2027

ISSCR 2027 will bring together scientists, industry leaders, and students to discuss breakthroughs in development, regeneration, AI, and bioengineering. The meeting emphasizes scientific exchange and career development through networking events and mentoring opportunities.

New scenarios needed to address climate crisis

BESPIN Regional Trialogue for Europe and Central Asia

Many Americans pessimistic about AI’s impact – and want more regulation

Hormone health climbs the policy agenda as endocrine leaders meet for European Society of Endocrinology’s first Summit of the Presidents

The summit brought together endocrine leaders to identify opportunities to work closely together on increasing the visibility of endocrine health in policy decisions. Early findings from a workforce survey revealed challenges including long patient waiting times and retention concerns among early-career clinicians.

The 28th European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) starts tomorrow

Forest fuel treatments not only reduce wildfire risk, but are cost-effective

How researcher age influences likelihood of disruptive innovation in science

As global tensions rise, major EU initiative seeks to scale up scientific cooperation internationally

The EU is launching a major initiative to expand scientific cooperation globally, building on earlier dialogue with 57 countries. The project aims to develop practical guidance for fairer and more effective collaboration between nations.

Digital Science upgrades Dimensions Research Security to a complete, audit-ready solution

Digital Science has upgraded its world-leading Dimensions Research Security platform with a full workflow solution addressing growing volumes, fragmented tools, and rising compliance pressure. The new solution enables proactive research security work with reduced manual effort, making it easier to generate, customize, and access reports.

Scientists esteemed by public, with vaccine scientists seen as similar to scientists in general

A nationally representative survey found that nearly 7 in 10 people trust vaccine scientists to act in their best interests, similar to medical scientists and scientists in general. The public perceives vaccine scientists as credible, self-correcting, and unbiased, with their work benefiting society.

The ISSCR urges continued NIH investment in human embryonic stem cell research to sustain scientific progress and therapeutic innovation

The ISSCR emphasizes that continued investment in hESC research is essential to sustaining scientific progress and advancing life-saving therapies. Human embryonic stem cells remain a cornerstone of modern biomedical research due to their status as a gold standard for human pluripotency.

Alliance study shows new promise against locally advanced lung cancer

A study by the Alliance Foundation Trials shows that combining immunotherapy and chemotherapy before surgery can help more patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer undergo complete cancer resection, improving their long-term health. The treatment also led to high rates of lymph node clearance and successful surgical re...

Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology supports April Head and Neck Awareness Month

The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology has several active trials specifically designed to help people with head and neck cancers. Trials include testing high-dose prophylactic gabapentin to prevent opioid use during treatment, as well as immunotherapy with nivolumab and cabozantinib for mucosal melanoma and nasopharyngeal carcino...

NCCN announces first fellows for new advocacy academy to help drive effective cancer policy

The NCCN Advocacy Academy connects oncology professionals with policymakers to drive evidence-based cancer policy. The program aims to cultivate policy leadership skills among emerging scientists and care providers.

Guidance aims to improve collaboration between scientists, tribal nations

A new blueprint for creating research agreements enables respectful research with Tribes and on Tribal lands. The guidance defines rights of Tribes and researchers, aiming to avoid extractive practices and protect data sovereignty.

Governments, beware: Why it's so hard to invest in risk prevention

A recent study by Bas Heerma van Voss found that governments are prone to cognitive biases when it comes to major risks like pandemics and climate change. Debiasing training for risk analysts can help recognize and avoid these biases, but such training is rarely implemented systematically.

How can science support and enable the High Seas Treaty?

A new study provides a solutions-focused pathway to implementing the High Seas Treaty, highlighting the need for enhanced data resources and sharing. The researchers identify major scientific and technical developments that can help address challenges in biodiversity monitoring and connectivity between areas.

AIBS publishes report highlighting Photo Contest winners

The American Institute of Biological Sciences has published a report showcasing the winners of its 2025 Faces of Biology Photo Contest. The contest aims to highlight biological research through impactful imagery, with this year's first place winner receiving $250 and a one-year subscription to BioScience.

A new practical introductory guide on green roofs and walls to EU member states and local stakeholders launched to support the implementation of the Nature Restoration Regulation

The report, prepared by BioAgora, highlights the benefits of building-integrated greenery for biodiversity, climate resilience, energy efficiency, and human wellbeing. It offers actionable guidance for local authorities to integrate green roofs and walls into spatial planning and building codes.

Research findings for a more equitable energy transition

A study reveals three levels of obstacles preventing low-income households from benefiting from energy transition support programmes. Four design principles for equitable energy policy are proposed, including barrier-aware mechanisms and immediate financial relief.

American Meteorological Society and partners issue statement on public availability of scientific evidence on climate change

The American Meteorological Society and partners urge reinstatement of climate science chapter in judicial reference manual, citing concerns over public access to scientific knowledge. The statement emphasizes the overwhelming agreement among experts on climate change, its impacts, and human activities as primary drivers.

Webinar: How to communicate your science to UK policymakers

A free webinar, part of the Sustainable Microbiology Policy Spotlight journal webinar series, explores how microbiologists can effectively influence policy in the UK. The webinar, featuring senior policymakers and parliamentary affairs professionals, will take place on April 1, 2026, and will be recorded for retrospective viewing.

American Meteorological Society responds to NSF regarding the future of NCAR

The American Meteorological Society strongly opposes the dismantling of NCAR, highlighting its central role in atmospheric sciences and its impact on the nation's economy. The AMS recommends that NSF engage in a rigorous process to develop a strategy for enhancing scientific innovation in the weather enterprise.

Bonn most successful university in excellence strategy

The University of Bonn has been awarded funding for a further seven years, solidifying its position as the most successful university in the Excellence strategy. With eight Clusters of Excellence, the university aims to establish itself in the leading pack of the world's best universities.

Stark divide: Americans more confident in career scientists at US health agencies than leaders

A new survey from the Annenberg Public Policy Center finds that Americans are more confident in career scientists at federal health agencies such as the CDC, NIH, and FDA, than in their leaders. The survey also reveals a significant gap in confidence between career scientists and agency leaders, with only 5% of Americans expressing

Study confirms food fortification is highly cost-effective in fighting hidden hunger across 63 countries

A comprehensive systematic review found that large-scale food fortification is a highly cost-effective intervention for reducing global malnutrition, with benefits far outweighing costs. The study analyzed 56 studies from 63 countries and found that fortification programs deliver substantial health benefits relative to costs.

DFG, HRK and WR propose Nexus – a new funding instrument for networks of excellence at EU level

The DFG, HRK, and WR propose Nexus, a new EU funding instrument for networks of excellence, to strengthen institutionalized cooperation between Europe's leading universities and research institutions. The proposed network would conduct research on a jointly selected topic that is of strategic importance to the participating institutions.

UGA Bioinformatics doctoral student selected for AIBS and SURA public policy fellowship

Olivia Asher, a Ph.D. candidate in bioinformatics at UGA, has been selected for the 2026 AIBS & SURA Public Policy Fellowship. She will work with AIBS and SURA policy staff in Washington, DC, to gain hands-on experience with science policy and advocacy efforts.

National report supports measurement innovation to aid commercial fusion energy and enable new plasma technologies

A new report recommends increased investment in America's fusion diagnostic capabilities, a critical technology that could provide information to speed up the delivery of commercial fusion power plants. The report identifies key areas for research and development to advance U.S. leadership in fusion energy and plasma technologies.

DOE climate report ‘demonstrably incorrect’, say leading scientists in new analysis

Leading climate scientists, including Prof Benjamin Santer, reiterate the role of humans in global warming and warn against using an inaccurate government report to inform legal decisions. The report's claims are factually incorrect, contradicting decades of research on human-caused temperature changes.

Researchers recommend strategies for improved genetic privacy legislation

New guidelines recommend strengthening legislative protections against genetic discrimination in insurance, including clearly defining genetic information and regulating its use. State lawmakers should consider carefully wording restrictions on discriminatory practices to ensure the efficacy of current policies.

Cal Poly’s fifth Climate Solutions Now conference to take place Feb. 23-27

The all-virtual Cal Poly Climate Solutions Now conference will address a wide range of climate topics, including energy, water, waste, business sustainability, agriculture, education, and more. Presenters from various industries will share strategies, tools, and information to help mitigate climate change.

AMS releases statement regarding the decision to rescind EPA’s 2009 Endangerment Finding

The American Meteorological Society (AMS) expresses deep concern over the repeal of the EPA's 2009 Endangerment Finding, which concluded that greenhouse gas emissions harm human health and well-being. AMS reaffirms key scientific conclusions on climate change, including its impacts on people and nature.