April 2012

Asking pointed questions is a key part of the scientific process.

April 2012's selection of notable quotes

A novel liquid laser set-up can detect single nucleotide mutations in a cancer gene.

Two proteins interact to save adhesion molecules from degradation, potentially contributing to a more aggressive cancer.

Genes shared across species that produce different phenotypes – deafness in humans and directional growth in plants – may reveal new models of disease.

Fish adapt to feed for months along the entire depth of massive oceanic whirlpools that are rich in nutrients and plankton.

With strong foundations in both art and science, Ahna Skop has been able to capture the marvel of—and mechanisms behind—cytokinesis.

Lecturer, School of Agriculture & Food Science, University College Dublin. Age: 38

Choosing to work in industry does not preclude a return to academe. But the move back takes some planning and finesse.

A dose of marketing training may help you win grants, woo collaborators, and land jobs.

A 17th century Danish doctor arranges a museum of natural history oddities in his own home.

Meet some of the people featured in the April 2012 issue of The Scientist.

Consciousness, The Social Conquest of Earth, How Not to Be Eaten, and Horseshoe Crabs and Velvet Worms

During development, the cells of an embryo change their pattern of gene expression, which allows them to detach from their original location and migrate to another part of the embryo, where the pattern changes again to allow formation of a new organ.