A massive study finds that regional differences in how slaves were treated throughout the Americas are reflected in the DNA of present-day Americans of African descent.

If confirmed, the result means people migrated to North America much earlier than thought, but some experts remain unconvinced.

An isotopic analysis of eggshell beads dating back more than 30,000 years indicates that they helped build networks that stretched for hundreds of kilometers.

The medical scientist made important contributions to polio treatment and Australian environmental policy—despite substantial resistance.

The Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden is still assessing the damage from a June 15 fire.

Download our poster of the biggest milestones, from the discovery of the viral family in humans in the 1960s to the identification of SARS-CoV-2.

Milder, cold-causing members of this pathogenic viral family long remained under the radar, although they aren’t entirely harmless.

Microbiologist Maurice Hilleman foresaw the global spread of a novel influenza strain in 1957. His vaccine saved hundreds of thousands of lives.

Kim Peek, the inspiration for the title character in Rain Man, brought public attention to savant syndrome.