Editorials

This year's Nobel Prize in Chemistry recognized the researchers whose work literally illuminated biological processes.

A comparison of the candidates' positions on issues related to science and education points to some clear differences.

A look at the editorial process indicates why having your paper reviewed might take some time.

A new section in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology will house articles that serve primarily as Resources and also lead to novel molecular insights, adding a new flavor to our pages.

An in-depth look at membrane fusion—a process essential for communication within and between cells—is presented in this issue of Nature Structural & Molecular Biology.

Green tea has held a long-standing place in traditional Asian medicine. Scientific research is now beginning to explain why.

If the United States is losing its competitive edge in science and technology, how can we begin to reverse that trend?

On 12 March 2008, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its latest standards for ozone emission, along with recommendations on how to update the Clean Air Act. This was followed by public outcry from medical associations, nonprofit organizations and media outlets.

The current move toward a presidential debate highlighting science and technology may at least provide the impetus for political discussion in these areas to go beyond hot button issues.

Metagenomics has the potential to shed light on one of the least understood group of organisms on Earth, while also providing useful tools for many fields in biology.

As the weather turns colder in the northern hemisphere, cases of colds and flu rise again, reminding us of the impact of pathogens on our lives.

This special issue of NSMB examines the structural organization and function of chromatin and its dynamic regulation.

Inherited mutations in BRCA genes predispose individuals to breast, ovarian and other forms of cancer. Although emerging data are helping to define the roles of BRCA proteins and their links to inherited forms of these diseases, much is still unknown about the more prevalent sporadically occurring cancers.

A committee assembled by the US National Academies has examined why women scientists and engineers are underrepresented in leadership positions in academic institutions and scientific and professional societies. If the committee's recommendations are implemented, it should improve the working environment for both women and men.

Scientists coin new terms, or neologisms, at a tremendous pace, but name choice can have unforeseen results.

An interesting and diverse meeting last month reminds us of the importance of supporting basic science research.

Meetings and conferences are the best places to feature the latest results coming out of the laboratory. Unfortunately, not enough researchers take advantage of these opportunities.

Scientists have a crucial role in educating the public about the importance of science if we are to have any hope of facilitating future innovation. A few notable scientists have taken this duty to heart, altering their career tracks to promote science and education.