Science Policy

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

How researcher age influences likelihood of disruptive innovation in science

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

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 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...

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...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Science policy education should start on campus

A new guide published by UC Santa Barbara Assistant Professor Alexandra Phillips aims to help universities support student interests in ocean policy. The recommendations cover strategies for faculty, departments, and institutions to foster policy literacy among students, applicable across various fields and disciplines.

Flexible governance for biological data is needed to reduce AI’s biosecurity risks

Rapidly advancing AI systems trained on biological data pose significant biosecurity risks, highlighting the need for flexible governance frameworks. Targeted controls can restrict sensitive pathogen data while allowing most scientific data to remain openly available.

Innovation at a crossroads: Virginia Tech scientist calls for balance between research integrity and commercialization

A Virginia Tech scientist emphasizes the importance of preserving the nation's ability to turn discovery into life-saving therapies. He argues that strong transparency and careful oversight are key to making the technology-transfer ecosystem work, and that abandoning it could have unintended consequences.

New tool exposes scale of fake research flooding cancer science

A new machine learning tool has identified over 250,000 cancer research papers that may have been produced by 'paper mills', companies selling fake or low-quality scientific studies. The study found suspicious writing patterns in these papers, which can be detected by large language models.

Accounting for fossil energy’s “minimum viable scale” is central to decarbonization

Researchers argue that acknowledging and planning for limits in fossil fuel systems is essential for a safe and just energy transition. Failing to do so may trigger service collapses, safety hazards, economic shocks, and environmental harm.

ISSCR statement in response to new NIH policy on research using human fetal tissue (NOT-OD-26-028)

The new NIH policy on research using human fetal tissue could undermine the development of life-saving therapies for various diseases. The ISSCR urges NIH to reconsider its decision and engage constructively with the scientific community to support biomedical research.

Spotting skin cancer sooner with the help of artificial intelligence

Researchers at the University of Missouri are developing AI models to accurately detect melanoma by analyzing images of skin abnormalities. The technology can help dermatologists identify cases that may require closer attention, leading to earlier treatment and improved health outcomes.

American Meteorological Society announces new executive director

Amanda Staudt will lead the American Meteorological Society, advancing the atmospheric and related sciences for public safety, economic security, and environmental stewardship. With extensive experience in connecting science to society, Staudt aims to bring people together to amplify AMS's voices.

Co-hosted by CO-OP4CBD and Biodiversa+: Side event at SBSTTA-27 highlighted the role of the knowledge-holders in UN CBD

The 27th SBSTTA-27 meeting emphasized the crucial role of scientists and knowledge holders in the UN CBD process. A side event explored capacity-building initiatives, regional TSC centers, and the introduction of a new guide for supporting participation in UN CBD processes.

Large parts of the tropics overlooked in environmental research

A comprehensive study from Umeå University reveals that humid lowland forest ecosystems receive disproportionate attention, while colder and drier regions are severely underrepresented. This imbalance can lead to policy decisions based on incomplete or misleading science, affecting climate-vulnerable ecosystems.

Stowers Institute appoints former Cerner legal chief as new general counsel

Dan Devers joins the Stowers Institute with over 20 years of experience in law and business. He will lead all legal matters across the Institute, ensuring governance, compliance, intellectual property strategy, and partnerships support the Institute's mission to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease.

Shining a spotlight on cancer

A Mizzou researcher developed an antibody that attaches to and lights up EphA2 protein in cancerous tumors, allowing for non-invasive detection and identification of patients who can benefit from targeted treatments. This innovation could save time and money while advancing precision medicine.

Vitamin C may help protect fertility from a harmful environmental chemical

Researchers found that male fish exposed to vitamin C and potassium perchlorate showed improved fertility and less damage to their testes compared to those exposed only to the chemical. The study suggests a potential safeguard for individuals regularly exposed to these chemicals, including military personnel.

American Meteorological Society announces Rick Spinrad as 2026 President-Elect

The American Meteorological Society has elected Rick Spinrad as its 2026 president-elect. A renowned oceanographer, Spinrad will serve a one-year term before becoming the AMS president in 2027. The five newly elected council members are Marilyn Averill, Julie Demuth, Jordan Gerth, Maureen McCann, and Aaron Piña.

AMS releases statement regarding the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)

The American Meteorological Society (AMS) urges the US government to maintain and strengthen NSF NCAR, a critical resource for weather forecasting and climate science. This would lead to further forecast improvements that benefit the nation's safety and economy.

Support for scientific funding doesn’t have to be partisan — but scientists must make the case, says new study

A new study from the University of Florida suggests that scientific populism is a stronger predictor of distrust in federal agencies than political ideology. Scientists must communicate the value of their work and engage with democratic institutions to influence research priorities.

Jeonbuk National University researcher proposes a proposing a two-stage decision-making framework of lithium governance in Latin America

A new study proposes a two-stage decision-making framework for lithium governance in Latin America, highlighting the role of external pressures, internal politics, and industry development. The research suggests that engagement strategies must consider these factors to succeed in the region.

Although public overwhelmingly supports hepatitis B vaccine for a newborn, partisan differences exist

A national survey of adults found that three-quarters support vaccinating newborns against hepatitis B, but Republicans are less likely to recommend the vaccine. The survey also found that most respondents believe the vaccine protects against liver disease, and there is little evidence justifying delaying vaccination.

DFG to fund eleven new research training groups

The DFG is establishing 11 new Research Training Groups, including an international IRTG in Australia, to support early-career researchers. The groups will receive €82 million over five years to investigate various research topics.

AMS 2026 Meeting showcases atmospheric science and the “human factor”

The 106th Annual Meeting of the American Meteorological Society will focus on the intersection of technology and human decision-making in weather, water, and climate sciences. The meeting will feature keynote presentations, Presidential Sessions, and named symposia highlighting key Earth science topics.

Frontiers Science House launches at Davos to accelerate global science initiatives

The Frontiers Science House is a new meeting venue at Davos that connects breakthrough science to government, business executives, and philanthropists. The house will host over 40 sessions on topics such as precision healthcare, planetary restoration, and digital intelligence.

Aston University professor appointed as new Department for Transport chief scientific adviser

Professor Patricia Thornley, a renowned expert in sustainable energy and clean technologies, has been appointed as the new chief scientific adviser to the Department for Transport. She will leverage her three decades of experience to inform evidence-based policy and drive innovation across the transport system.

SHOWCASE launches “Farming with Biodiversity” Handbook and Living Fields Platform

The EU-funded project SHOWCASE has released its final handbook on 'Farming with Biodiversity', providing a practical guide to help farmers integrate biodiversity into their operations. The handbook offers four flexible strategies to promote biodiversity-based farming, supporting EU and national policies such as CAP eco-schemes.

Data integration is the key to understanding Asia-pacific marine change

A new perspective on Asia-pacific marine ecosystems proposes integrating physical oceanography, environmental genomics, and ecological observations to enhance biodiversity monitoring. This approach aims to strengthen international collaboration and protect the region's most diverse marine life.

The 4th Japan-India Universities Forum on 15 November

The 4th Japan-India Universities Forum will explore ways to strengthen cooperative initiatives in science and technology fields. The event aims to accelerate Japan-India talent circulation in science and technology collaboration.

AAAS launches Pathways to Policy Fellowship

The AAAS launched the Pathways to Policy Fellowship, its third immersive fellowship program, recognizing institutions outside the federal government play a significant role in shaping public policy. The program places scientists in sectors such as nonprofits and private industry with options for renewal and expansion.

Association for Molecular Pathology honors Michael Laposata with Champion for Innovation Award

The Association for Molecular Pathology recognized Dr. Laposata's contributions to clinical laboratory practice and his role in challenging the FDA's rule on laboratory-developed test regulation. The award preserves diagnostic innovation, ensures patient access, and avoids escalating healthcare costs.