Sam Illingworth

Sam is a Professor in Creative Pedagogies. His research is concerned with trying to engage and empower people with science, especially those from under-served communities. He writes science poems to try and communicate some of the beautiful and important scientific research that is being done on a daily basis, all across the world.

A Promise of Lavender

The LaMYC7 gene in lavender has been found to be crucial for producing the calming linalool and anti-inflammatory caryophyllene compounds in the plant.

Wasted Mussels

Radium from oil wastewater contaminates rivers and freshwater mussels, highlighting the need for stricter environmental controls.

Wobbling Stars and Super Earths

The TESS-Keck Survey has identified 15 new exoplanets and measured the masses of 126, providing crucial insights into their compositions and advancing our understanding of planetary systems

Shadows in the Sea

Marine heatwaves impact Arctic phytoplankton, crucial to ecosystems, with stable warming boosting productivity, but varied responses highlight the need to consider both warming and cooling phases for accurate predictions.

Seismic Snow

Environmental factors like heavy snowfalls may have an impact on earthquakes.

The Weakening Pulse of Life

Research reveals Earth’s magnetic field was 30 times weaker 600 million years ago, possibly influencing the rise of complex life by affecting atmospheric oxygen levels.

Women of the Wildfires

Researchers in Italy find that old farming methods, especially women’s work like clearing leaves, help prevent wildfires, underscoring the value of these time-honoured techniques in protecting the land.

Plastic Flesh

Microplastics have been found to carry toxins that can penetrate our skin and enter our bloodstream, a concerning route of exposure impacting health.

Pink and Swollen Shores

Soda lakes, vital for diverse species like the Lesser Flamingo, face threats from rising water levels and declining phytoplankton, stressing the need for improved management and monitoring in East Africa.

Fettering their Nests

A 2013-2021 study on 6,000 species of birds revealed only 22% thrive in urban areas, underscoring the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies.