The ethics of ancient DNA research, the animals that might exist millions of years from now, and more.

Vivian Le's reads

The ethics of ancient DNA research. Ancient DNA can shine a light on the lives of people who died thousands of years ago, but many people have criticized the problematic nature of some research using it. In response, an international group of researchers released new ethical guidelines to prevent harm to both the once-living people being studied and modern groups affected by ancient DNA research. Writing for the New York Times, Sabrina Imbler describes the central tenets of the guidelines and explains why they have garnered both support and criticism from the scientific community.

The animals that might exist millions of years from now. Climate change is already "shape shifting" animals, such as shrinking some migratory birds and changing the life cycles of amphibians, but what will animals be like millions of years from now? Writing for Vox's "Down to Earth," Mandy Nguyen explains how some of these potential future animals, including carnivorous pigeons and gigantic praying mantises, might survive in a far-off Earth—both with and without humans.

Alyssa Nystrom's reads

Thanks to remote work, more innovation could occur outside of industry hubs. With the increased flexibility of remote jobs, more professionals are moving out of "superstar cities." Writing for the Wall Street Journal, Christopher Mims explores the trend that could have "profound implications for where and how innovation will happen."

Why married people may soon be the minority. Marriage was once seen as an inevitable milestone, but Pew Research Center this month published data showing that the number of Americans who were not married or living with a partner rose to 38% in 2019—a trend that is expected to continue. Writing for the New York Times, Charles Blow examines the increase in unmarried adults in the United States.