I’m a science communicator and journalist with experience working with clients worldwide. I am particularly interested in telling stories about climate change, health and agriculture.
Coal-filled trains are likely sending people to the hospital
Although US coal consumption has fallen dramatically since 2005, the country still consumes millions of tons a year, and exports tons more—much of it transported by train. Now, new research shows that these trains can affect the health of people living near where they pass.
Biodegradable microplastics may actually be worse for soil and plants
Biodegradable plastic that gets broken down into microplastics may decrease soil nitrogen levels more than conventional ones, which stunts plant growth
Bacteria could reduce N2O emissions from soil
Researchers have added nitrogen-hungry bacteria to farm soils, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
How warming waters threaten biodiversity
A recent study highlights how vulnerable many marine animals are to rising sea temperatures
How many bird species have gone extinct?
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We know that humans have caused the extinction of many bird species, but the number may surprise you.
Humans have not been good for the bird population. We know that Homo sapiens has caused the extinction of hundreds of species, as indicated by fossils and written records. However, most of this data was recorded after the 1500s, so our ability to estimate accurately has been limited.
Now, a tea...
What's behind the rise of allergies?
Scientists studied pandemic babies to test our common assumption that excessive hygiene is driving allergies
We’re becoming more allergic to things. It is estimated that the global incidence of food allergy rose from around 3 per cent of the population in 1960 to around 7 per cent in 2018. More patients are ending up in hospitals, too. Between 2013 and 2019, the number of admissions for children in England due to anaphylaxis, a severe reaction to allergies, rose by 72 per cent.
Why is this ha...
Optical sensors warn of beetle infestations
Optical sensors could help farmers better monitor beetle populations in oilseed rape fields.
Venomous snakes may spread into vulnerable communities because of climate change
Deadly bites could surge as venomous snakes migrate into unprepared countries as the climate changes
Is modern food lower in nutrients?
Studies suggest that our fruit and vegetables are losing nutrients. Bárbara Pinho examines the evidence and looks at the implications of a ‘nutrient collapse’
Viewed from above, the agricultural fields around Rothamsted’s estate look like any other farm in the surrounding countryside of Hertfordshire, England. But despite the seemingly ordinary landscape, these fields tell the story of a great scientific experiment – the longest running scientific experiment in the world.
In 1843, John Bennet...
The high price of a suntan
Skin cancer is on the rise in many countries around the world, but so are the methods to treat it. Bárbara Pinho reports
Microplastics passed on during cell division
New research sheds light on the influence of microplastics on cellular processes
PFAS linked to foetal metabolism disorders
An analysis of foetal liver tissue offers new insight into the metabolic effects of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The findings show that exposure to these ‘forever chemicals’ alters lipid metabolism in unborn children, and could increase the risk of metabolic disease later in life.
While PFAS are associated with negative health impacts, the metabolic pathways linking PFAS exposure to human disease are unclear, and most studies into these effects have focused on exposure in adults. Scient...
Researchers seek to ensure that people retain their ability to detect scents
A decade ago, in a field of orange trees in southern Greece, Stéphane Tawil realized that he had lost his sense of smell—completely.
Tawil was with friends who were remarking on the perfumed scent of oranges. But he couldn't smell anything.
Study Finds Link Between Agent Orange Exposure and Brain Damage
A new study of rat brain cells shows that the herbicide Agent Orange can damage the central nervous system in a similar way to neurodegenerative diseases.
New Drone System Fights Spread of Diseases By Releasing Mosquitos
A team of researchers is employing drones to disperse sterile mosquitoes to combat lethal disease outbreaks such as dengue fever.