A black and white headshot of Andrew Carstens

Andy Carstens

Andy Carstens is an intern at The Scientist. He has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a master’s in science writing from Johns Hopkins University. Andy’s work has previously appeared in Audubon, Slate, Aidsmap, and AskNature.org. View his full portfolio at www.andycarstens.com.

Articles by Andy Carstens
Kentish plover standing by nest with eggs
Avian Deception More Widespread Than Previously Thought
Andy Carstens | Oct 3, 2022 | 5+ min read
The broken-wing display, in which birds fake being wounded to protect their nests from predators, is found across the avian phylogenetic tree, a study finds.
A black and white photo of a woman in a plumed hat in a laboratory classroom with several men
Birth of The Pill, 1956–1960
Andy Carstens | Oct 3, 2022 | 2 min read
Researchers overseeing the clinical trial for the first FDA-approved oral contraceptive claimed the drug gave the Puerto Rican participants power over their family planning. Critics claimed the women were exploited.
satellite view of Hurricane Ian in between Cuba and Florida's Gulf Coast
Researchers in Ian’s Path Brace for the Storm
Andy Carstens | Sep 27, 2022 | 4 min read
With their laboratories prepared as well as possible for what’s now a Category 3 hurricane, all scientists in Florida can do now is wait.
A building behind trees
Ford Foundation Sunsets Diversity Fellowships
Andy Carstens | Sep 27, 2022 | 5+ min read
For more than 50 years, the program has served as a pipeline to get more scholars of color into academic institutions.
A white deer mouse on sand surrounded by plants
Are We In the Midst of a Silent Mass Extinction?
Andy Carstens | Sep 22, 2022 | 5+ min read
A new modeling technique aims to help scientists and policymakers detect declines in genetic diversity based on habitat loss.
An orange toad perched on a leaf
Past Malaria Surges Linked to Amphibian Die-off
Andy Carstens | Sep 21, 2022 | 2 min read
A study suggests that pathogens affecting other species can indirectly harm human health.
Woman holding a glass of water in one hand and pill in the other
Daily Multivitamin May Slow Cognitive Decline in Seniors
Andy Carstens | Sep 14, 2022 | 2 min read
Researchers caution that it’s too soon to recommend supplements based on the results of a new study.
woman smiling at camera
Renee Wegrzyn Tapped to Head ARPA-H
Andy Carstens | Sep 12, 2022 | 2 min read
As the new agency’s director, the DARPA veteran will spearhead a high-risk, high-reward approach to biomedical research.
Activists protest. Political riot sign banners, people holding protests placards and manifestation banner. Jobs activist strike, vegetarians meeting or feminist demonstration vector illustration
Unionization Efforts Pick Up Across US Universities
Catherine Offord, Andy Carstens, and Amanda Heidt | Sep 1, 2022 | 5+ min read
Members of newly certified workers’ organizations at campuses across the US speak about how they achieved official recognition and what they’re planning for the years ahead.
LAKSAMEE CAVE
Clinton Cave Investigates How Brain Cells Communicate
Andy Carstens | Sep 1, 2022 | 3 min read
The Middlebury College neuroscientist explores enzymes that affect brain cell development and neurodegeneration.