All articles were written for the course Science Communication and Journalism of 2024.
As promised, we return with the remaining five journalistic pieces that made their way onto UKrant’s agenda. This time, we step into the labs – the settings of this week’s stories that follow researchers pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. From studying animal behaviour to tackling global health challenges, these articles reflect the creativity, and passion of both the scientists and the students who documented their work.
Using animals to gain insights into humans
Our peers have highlighted the stories of three neurobiologists studying animal behaviours to shed light on the complexities of human minds and bodies.
The party never stops: Fruit flies keep each other up, Adithya Sarma discovered – by Fleur Meijer
First, Fleur presents a fascinating story about neurobiologist Adithya Sarma, who investigates the connection between social interaction and sleep by studying fruit flies. His research reveals peculiar social behaviors in flies that might provide clues to how interactions influence sleep patterns in humans.
Read the English version here.
Stressed mum, depressed kid? Transferable trauma – by Fardou Haagsma
Next, Fardou dives into the work of Mayerli Prado Rivera, a neuroscientist that examines how maternal stress could influence the mental health of the children. By observing stress responses in rats, Rivera explores the potential intergenerational effects of trauma, offering insights into how such findings could inform mental health research for humans.
Read the English version here.
Males aren’t females: Sex bias has far-reaching consequences – by Nisa Broek
In her article, Nisa brings up a critical issue in scientific research: the ongoing bias in using male animals as default test subjects, even for studies meant to benefit both sexes. Interviewing biologist Nicole Gervais, Nisa uncovers the consequences of this imbalance and highlights efforts to ensure that research is more inclusive and relevant for all.
Read the English version here.
A quest for better drugs
Two stories take us to the frontline of biomedical innovation, where researchers are developing new drugs to tackle pressing health challenges.
Four diseases, one cure: Guido Krenning’s super molecule – by Wouter ten Cate
Molecular biologist Guido Krenning is on the brink of developing a new drug that could be used against Alzheimer, heart failure, kidney failure, and pulmonary disease. Sounds a bit too good to be true? Wouter’s article delves into how this is possible and how this research started.
Read the English version here.
Smart antibiotics will save us: The fight against resistant bacteria – by Wyco Zweehorst
Finally, Wyco introduces us to Henk Busscher, a biomedical engineer working on the urgent problem of antibiotic resistance. Busscher’s innovative solution involves designing hybrid antibiotics to outsmart resistant bacteria and break the cycle of ineffective treatments – a potential game-changer in the fight against superbugs.
Read the English version here.
These five stories, like the first four, showcase the depth and breadth of the scientific topics our students cover during the Science Communication and Journalism course. From neuroscience to drug development, each article reflects the curiosity and journalistic skills of our peers. Stay tuned for more outstanding work from our students!
Bridging Science 