Briefing

The media has inflamed public fears about the risks of genetically modified crops for human health and biodiversity. But many responsible scientists agree on the need for more research to identify potential long-term problems.

Although the incidence of proven scientific fraud remains low, several high-profile cases have convinced the research community of the need for effective action, in particular by enforcing codes of good laboratory practice.

The Internet revolution is injecting more competition into publishing and giving power back to scientists and learned societies. It presents new challenges to the guardians of the archives and could yet spell the end for many print titles.

Natural history museums are shaking off their dusty image in a bid to show relevance to contemporary concerns. Central to a revival in their research fortunes is a unique contribution to our understanding of life's complexity.