I have to watch murder mysteries alone so that my muttering doesn’t disrupt the enjoyment of others. I’m willing to overlook that science procedures take place at an incredible speed in fancy surroundings – I mean, how boring would it be to watch actual PCR? – but I hate the implication that a DNA match means guilty.

So, repeat with me: DNA evidence can’t prove guilt. Why not?

Famous DNA double helix

We see the DNA helix everywhere. It helps market computers, trucks, and cosmetics. People use the helix as an explanation (‘in my DNA’). But do people understand this famous molecule?

In different classrooms, I have asked, “If I left DNA from a wolf in a test tube alone in a classroom, what would you do?” Some students respond, ‘drink it, so I can get wolf power’. Other students have said, ‘enter the room carefully in case the wolf is angry’. But in reality, we would just come back to DNA.

DNA is not magical. I think it is awesome but it is just a molecule. So what is it?

Yesterday, there was a photo going around with the search results of ‘scientists are’… It was not encouraging. I’ve included my searches:

Chrome results

Firefox results

You see that the results are different in different browsers – but both are a bit concerning.

Hi girls!

I’m interested to know what you think of this initiative. Can you please answer the question and add comments below?

guest post

Source: HHMI

The idea behind interdisciplinary science is simple: a few scientists with different specializations tackle the same problem. Varied points of view will come up with different solutions and together we will stand a better chance to solve the scientific mysteries of our time and create solutions to pressing issues like global warming and cancer. But – are scientists from different fields still able to communicate? Do they, after years and years of specialized training, still speak the same language?

First, I am so impressed with everyone’s responses to S-Little’s question. I toyed with the idea of writing out what I should have written, taking into account your comments on the question – but that didn’t seem fair. I will share my immediate response to her but would love it if you can provide suggestions for a better and/or more complete answer!