Katarina Zimmer Author Profile | The Scientist Magazine®

Katarina Zimmer | May 1, 2023 | 10+ min read

Synonymous mutations have long been ignored in cancer studies since they don’t affect the amino acid sequences of proteins. But research increasingly reveals that they can have disease-driving effects.

Infographic: How “Silent” Mutations Can Disrupt Protein-Making

Katarina Zimmer | May 1, 2023 | 3 min read

Although scientists often assume that synonymous mutations don’t cause any biological effects because they don’t alter the amino acid code, recent research shows that they can influence transcription and translation in a variety of ways.

Illustration from the epigenetics and the genome infographic

Infographic: How Epigenetic Marks Can Change the Genome

Katarina Zimmer | Nov 1, 2022 | 2 min read

Although epigenetic changes were long thought to largely act on the genome, rather than as part of it, research is now showing that these patterns can, directly or indirectly, change the genetic code.

Do Epigenetic Changes Influence Evolution?

Katarina Zimmer | Nov 1, 2022 | 10+ min read

Evidence is mounting that epigenetic marks on DNA can influence future generations in a variety of ways. But how such phenomena might affect large-scale evolutionary processes is hotly debated.

close up programmer student man hand typing on keyboard at computer desktop to input code language into software for study bug and defect of system in classroom , development of technology concept

How to Fix Science's Code Problem

Katarina Zimmer | Sep 12, 2022 | 10 min read

Despite increasingly strict journal policies requiring the release of computational code files along with research papers, many scientists remain reluctant to share—underscoring the need for better solutions.

Dinosaur Fossil (Tyrannosaurus Rex) Found by Archaeologists

Are We in the Midst of a Sixth Mass Extinction?

Katarina Zimmer | Jul 18, 2022 | 10+ min read

Today’s extinction rates are sky-high. But scientists debate if that’s sufficient evidence to conclude that Earth is undergoing a mass extinction event—or whether that’s even a helpful designation.

Illustration of creatures from today’s crisis

Infographic: A Look at the Big Five Mass Extinctions

Katarina Zimmer | Jul 18, 2022 | 4 min read

Extinction is a natural part of life on Earth. But occasionally, extinction rates have surged far beyond usual levels, driving mass extinction events that have reshaped the trajectory of life.

Illustration of a doctor in medical coat and mask speaking at camera

Making the Most of Media Interviews

Katarina Zimmer | May 16, 2022 | 10 min read

As the pandemic has underscored the importance—and benefits—of communicating science to the general public, it’s also highlighted the challenges that researchers can face in speaking with journalists.

lone birch tree growing sideways in a field

Amid the Terror of War, Efforts to Keep Science Alive in Ukraine

Katarina Zimmer | Mar 28, 2022 | 10+ min read

Ukrainian scientists and universities face extraordinary challenges as the Russian invasion continues.

Hand drawing a red line between the UK and the rest of the European Union. Concept of Brexit.

How Brexit Is Transforming the UK’s STEM Community

Katarina Zimmer | Nov 1, 2021 | 8 min read

Scientists face the ramifications of the country’s departure from the European Union, from delays in laboratory supplies to difficulties hiring international students and faculty.