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Crashing Back to Earth: The Lesson of Kosmos 482

Adnan Mirza
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Crashing Back to Earth: The Lesson of Kosmos 482

On May 10, 2025, the long journey of the failed Soviet Venus lander has finally come to an end. The Kosmos 482 probe crashed to Earth after orbiting our planet for more than five decades. Reentry occurred at 2:24 a.m. ET (06:24 GMT or 9:24 a.m. Moscow time) over the Indian Ocean, west of Jakarta, Indonesia, according to Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos.

Fortunately, Kosmos 482 appears to have fallen harmlessly into the sea. However, this is just one estimate. Other space agencies and tracking organizations predicted different reentry locations, ranging from the South Asian mainland to the eastern Pacific. It remains unclear when or if we will receive a definitive answer regarding where Kosmos 482 came down.

Incidents involving space debris are becoming increasingly common and concerning. In November 2024, astronauts aboard the International Space Station received an urgent alert. A chunk of metal, just a few centimetres wide, was hurtling toward the station at over 28,000 kilometres per hour. Though small, it had the kinetic energy of a hand grenade.
Mission control swiftly ordered the station to fire its thrusters and shift orbit just in time. The fragment, part of a decades-old satellite explosion, passed harmlessly by. But the close call served as a serious reminder that Earth’s orbit is no longer the pristine expanse it once was. It is becoming crowded, chaotic, and dangerous.
space debris : The Aerospace Corporation
Incidents involving space debris are becoming increasingly common and concerning. Credit: The Aerospace Corporation

Due to growing concerns, NASA warns that Low Earth Orbit (LEO) has become “the world’s largest garbage dump”, containing nearly 6,000 tons of debris. Since orbital lanes are a finite resource, every new fragment raises the risk of collision. Satellites provide vital services, including weather data, global communications, navigation, and scientific observations, making the protection of these orbits essential for modern society.

The problem!

By official count, about 40,920 objects are currently catalogued in Earth orbit. Of the roughly 21,320 satellites ever launched, approximately 14,060 remain in space, with only ~11,200 still operational. The remainder are defunct and contribute to the growing debris population.

According to ESA, there are around 54,000 debris pieces larger than 10 cm, 1.2 million between 1–10 cm, and over 140 million measuring 1–10 mm. These range from entire rocket stages to tiny paint flecks. Nearly 95% of tracked debris resides in LEO (below ~2,000 km), making this region particularly congested.

Objects in LEO travel at roughly 18,000 mph (8 km/s), so even the smallest fragments can strike with devastating energy. For instance, the International Space Station has already performed dozens of avoidance manoeuvres to steer clear of debris. Each manoeuvre consumes fuel and disrupts operations, highlighting the persistent and growing hazard.

The space junk problem began with the very first satellite launches. Every mission typically leaves behind discarded rocket stages or payload adapters. Over time, many satellites and upper stages have exploded, often due to leftover fuel or battery malfunctions, creating swarms of fragments. To date, over 650 on-orbit breakup events have been recorded.

ESA - Satellites vs space Debris
By official count, about 40,920 objects are currently catalogued in Earth orbit. This infographic shows some of these objects. Credits: ESA and UN

Some of these breakups were intentional. In 2007, China destroyed one of its own Fengyun weather satellites in a missile test, creating over 3,000 new pieces of debris. In 2009, a derelict Russian satellite collided with an active US Iridium satellite, producing roughly 2,000 fragments.

In recent years, commercial activity has added to the load. Thousands of small satellites are now being launched in large constellations, increasing congestion in key orbital zones. As former ESA Director General Jan Wörner noted, this “new space” era marked by mega-constellations for global connectivity could “dramatically increase the chance of collisions”.

In short, over decades of launches, explosions, and collisions, we have steadily filled Earth’s orbits with dangerous debris.

Debris presents serious and escalating risks

Debris presents serious and escalating risks. Even fragments as small as a millimetre can pierce spacecraft shielding at orbital velocities. A single collision could disable a satellite or endanger a crewed mission.

Although most recorded strikes have caused only minor damage, operators must invest additional fuel, planning, and resources to track hazards and conduct evasive manoeuvres. In one recent example, the ISS adjusted its orbit in November 2024 to avoid a tumbling satellite fragment.

If a high-value satellite were lost, essential services including communications, GPS, and weather forecasting could be disrupted, leading to major economic and societal consequences.

Worse still is the spectre of the Kessler syndrome: a cascade of collisions that produces more debris, increasing the likelihood of further impacts. International agencies have warned that debris levels are rising at an exponential rate as satellite traffic surges.

Without intervention, parts of LEO could become unusable, threatening future space missions and the Earth-based systems that rely on satellite infrastructure.

A crater is created on a 4-inch-thick aluminium block by the collision of a 1-inch, half-ounce plastic cylinder in orbit. Credit: NASA
A crater is created on a 4-inch-thick aluminium block by the collision of a 1-inch, half-ounce plastic cylinder in orbit. Credit: NASA

While debris from defunct hardware is already a serious concern, the rapid expansion of satellite constellations is intensifying the issue. Thousands of new satellites are launched annually into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), increasing congestion and the risk of collisions.

Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet project, has deployed over 6,000 satellites as of 2025, with plans to expand to 42,000 in dense orbital shells between 340–550 km. Amazon’s Project Kuiper aims to launch 3,200 satellites, with half operational by 2026.

China is accelerating its efforts through the Qianfan project, targeting to send 15,000 satellites by 2030, while a private Chinese firm, Geespace, plans 6,000 more. Europe’s OneWeb (now integrated with Eutelsat) and the EU’s IRIS² initiative are also adding hundreds of satellites for broadband and digital sovereignty.

These mega-constellations offer global connectivity but drastically increase orbital crowding. Without coordinated planning, sustainable design, and effective end-of-life protocols, the influx of active and inactive satellites risks triggering more collisions, signal interference, and long-term orbital instability.

Balancing innovation with responsibility is now a defining challenge of the space era.

Voluntary guidelines to regulate Debris

To address the growing debris threat, space agencies have issued voluntary guidelines. The Inter-Agency Debris Committee (IADC) introduced mitigation recommendations in 2002, including deorbiting satellites after use and passivating fuel tanks. These non-binding guidelines have shaped national policies worldwide.

In 2019, the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) adopted Long-term Sustainability Guidelines to align global practices. Agencies in the US, Europe, and Japan now require deorbit plans and debris avoidance measures for new satellites.

Ground-based systems like the U.S. Space Surveillance Network monitor orbital objects and issue collision alerts. However, no binding global treaty mandates debris removal, compliance remains voluntary and operator-specific. The focus remains on preventing new debris, improving satellite design, and avoiding collisions.

Current efforts to save the Earth!

Governments and private companies are advancing debris mitigation and removal. The European Space Agency (ESA) is enhancing orbital models and planning active cleanup missions like ClearSpace-1, which will capture and deorbit a defunct satellite. Other missions, such as RemoveDEBRIS, have tested nets, harpoons, and robotic arms for debris capture.

Companies like Astroscale are developing autonomous docking technologies, while passive solutions, like drag sails and tethers, help accelerate satellite reentry. Improved materials are also being explored to minimise surviving debris.

Efforts on Earth include better space traffic coordination and real-time data sharing among operators.

The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), through COPUOS, promotes international cooperation, responsible behaviour, and policy harmonisation to support sustainable space operations.

Chart: Satellite Constellation Projects Ready for Takeoff | Statista

Future innovations and action

Looking ahead, experts agree that technological solutions alone will not be enough. Innovation must be coupled with robust cooperation and policy frameworks.

Emerging ideas include on-orbit servicing, i.e., refuelling or relocating ageing satellites, laser nudging from ground stations or orbital platforms to alter debris trajectories, and fully integrated space traffic management networks to oversee satellite operations globally.

Incentive-based approaches are also gaining traction. A proposed Space Sustainability Rating could score satellite operators on their debris mitigation performance, encouraging accountability and transparency.

As Jan Wörner noted, while mega-constellations offer great promise, they also threaten orbital safety without adequate safeguards. “Innovative technologies, responsible behaviour, and importantly, international cooperation are fundamental to ensuring our future in space is sustainable.”

Former UNOOSA chief Simonetta Di Pippo echoed this warning: “Space debris poses a clear risk for the long-term sustainability of outer space activities,” stressing the need for a secure and cooperative orbital regime.

In short, the time to act is now. Without stronger laws, cleaner technologies, and international alignment, the long-term viability of Earth’s orbital environment is at stake. Governments, industry, and civil society must move swiftly to preserve space as a shared resource for this generation and those yet to come.

References: 

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Scientia Pakistan Fosters a Scientifically Literate Public That Can Critically Evaluate Information

Saadeqa Khan
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Scientia Pakistan Fosters a Scientifically Literate Public That Can Critically Evaluate Information

The concept of an ideally informed society refers to citizens recognizing the importance of staying current and actively engaging with new ideas, developments, and claims to truth. They approach this engagement both openly and critically. As a result, individuals become more knowledgeable, make better decisions, and are in a stronger position to realign their values in response to emerging progressive norms and beliefs.

Given these potential benefits, it is particularly important to focus on those who do not value staying informed or make no effort to do so. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the emergence of the Omicron variant, after the widespread availability of vaccinations and booster shots, showed that individuals with less access to information were more likely to end up in catastrophic situations.

In Pakistan, the significant gap between science and journalism became evident during the pandemic. Major media outlets often lacked trained science journalists and relied instead on editors who had limited skills in verifying the authenticity of news related to medicine, healthcare, and vaccination.

Furthermore, no educational institutions in Pakistan offer courses or training in science journalism or reporting. As a result, key media outlets are generally unaware of the fundamental standards of science journalism. Consequently, the public tends to focus on political and entertainment news, showing little interest in scientific topics or fact-based science reporting.

The public often struggles to differentiate between credible scientific news and unsubstantiated pseudoscientific claims. During the lockdown, Scientia Pakistan played a crucial role and continues to do so in the post-COVID era to address this issue.

Scienita
None of the educational institutions in Pakistan offer courses or training in science journalism or reporting. Photo, Kailo Edu

Since its founding, Scientia Pakistan has been dedicated to encouraging students to learn about and engage with science through various programs, including science writing internships, workshops, and hands-on activities. The organization focuses on strategies that capture the imagination of young people, encouraging them to analyze problems using scientific principles and to think creatively.

Here is a collection of opinions of our former interns, writers, and experts about how Scientia is effectively playing its role in fostering a critically informed society in Pakistan and instilling passion in students for science writing.

Khadija Tariqa, Science Writing Interns Cohort Three

As an early career researcher in biological sciences in Pakistan, I can say that Scientia is doing an important job in science communication and public outreach. In a time when sensationalism and misinformation are everywhere, Scientia stands out as a responsible and reliable publication.

I had the chance to be part of their third internship cohort, and it was one of the most well-organized writing internships I have joined. The program offers a great opportunity to learn science writing and build professional connections. I highly recommend it to people of all ages, from school students to PhD scholars.

Ifra Zaidi, Science Writing Intern Cohort Three.

I am Ifra Zaidi, a young researcher and aspiring science writer. The Scientia Pakistan Science Writing Internship has been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic and professional journey. This program taught me how to translate complex scientific concepts into simple, engaging narratives that can effectively reach diverse audiences.

It boosted my confidence, refined my writing skills, and deepened my understanding of the importance of science communication in today’s world. More than just skill development, this internship inspired me to contribute passionately toward raising public awareness of scientific knowledge with enthusiasm and purpose.

Hifz U Rahman, Science writing Internship Cohort three

Scientia is a platform striving to eliminate the obstacles between science and society. Scientia Magazine not only disseminates scientific knowledge but also empowers individuals to become effective science communicators. Hence, fostering a more informed and scientifically literate society.

Science writing internship program nurtures science communicators. Interns engage in hands-on activities, crafting narratives on complex topics and making them accessible to a diverse audience. Webinar featuring seasoned science journalists shares invaluable insight into effective communication strategies.

Zainab Dar, Science Writing Intern Cohort Three

Scientia’s efforts to combat misinformation are commendable. It has publication standards of the international level, where the credibility of the sources used is verified for every article. Any bias or influence that selectively presents information to align with their views is avoided. Any kind of sensationalist language that provokes a strong uproar is avoided.

Multiple credible sources are used to write articles, and evidence of verified sources and images is checked before uploading any article. The use of deepfakes and AI is prohibited at all costs, and articles are also written with an approach towards empathy and critical thinking.

Moreover, quality over quantity is encouraged so viewers can relate more to authentic and accurate information being fed to them.

Dr Alex Dainis, a famous science communicator

Science is all about making the invisible visible, whether it’s going back to the moon or observing it on the cellular level. Especially, being able to see things that no one has ever seen before all over history, and to learn from them, and advance the entire human civilization as a whole. I believe that start-ups like Scientia Pakistan, in developing countries, are playing a vital role in making people aware of the significance of science in their daily lives.

Dr Bushra Anjum, Advisory Board Member, Scientia Pakistan

We are at the brink of the fourth industrial revolution, powered by a fusion of technologies that are quickly blurring the lines between real and virtual, physical and digital. We need to guide and inspire a tech workforce ready for this unprecedented, disruptive future where quick obsolescence may be the biggest threat and remaining relevant, the biggest struggle.

The most important training in this regard is to help future STEM professionals grow a generalist mindset. I am glad to be an advisory board member of Scientia Pakistan, which is an emerging entity in science journalism internationally.

Read more about Scientia’s Science Writing Internship Program here

Modern Wars: The Joint All-Domain Warfare

Muhammad Hassan Qazi
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Modern Wars: The Joint All-Domain Warfare

The evolution of warfare can be traced back to mankind’s advancement as a species. With their learned experiences and improved intelligence, humans developed better weapons and strategies of warfare. At first, the land was the only domain of wars, then came the boats, which led to the oceans becoming the second domain of armed conflict. The invention of aircraft led to the arming of the skies with fighter and bomber aircraft. 

A combination of domains of warfare (i.e., land and sea) was utilized to dominate the enemy by advanced armies of a given time. The 1st World War saw the first full-fledged combined utilization of all three domains (land, air, and sea) as active battlefields of war. The advent of space technologies leads to a new battlefield called “Cyberspace”.

Here, information control is the primary driver of battle. Another related warzone is “Space” itself, which comprises advanced spacecraft. So modern warfare has become a “5-dimensional battlefield” where all 5 domains of war (land, air, sea, cyberspace, and space) are interconnected. 

“Technologies come and go, but the primitive endures.”~ Ralph Peters (1999)

During and after the Cold War era, the US and Soviet Union were engaged in advanced information and technological warfare. That time contributed greatly to the development of sophisticated technologies, which formed the basis for modern technological advancements.

The US, however, enjoyed more success in developing and acquiring dominance in such warfare. Hence, many strategies that combine multiple-domain warfare are credited to the US (or their resourcefulness!). If you are not a “student of strategic warfare”, you can still grasp the basic concepts of multi-domain warfare by watching war-themed Hollywood, espionage flicks, and television series! 

From the Romans, Greeks, Persians, and other warrior nations to the World Wars, the Cold war era, and the famous to “theoretical” modern wars are all portrayed in such entertainment media. Whilst serving propaganda as a whole, some of these products convey quite practical and realistic ideas of warfare strategists.1

warfare
According to a 1988 NATO definition, command and control is “the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated individual over assigned resources in the accomplishment of a common goal.” Photo, Getty Images

The advent of Modern Warfare

The rise of Special Forces among the ranks of conventional armies was a stepping stone to applying multi-domain warfare. The British “SAS”, the Nazi special forces, the Soviet “Spetsnaz” special forces, and the US Army “Green Berets” were among the first designated armed groups trained to fight in multi-domain warzones. Presently, many countries have special force groups (the “SSG” special services group of Pakistan) among their armed ranks.

However, to train, manage, and oversee these Special Forces and conduct their operations, an organized “command and control” structure is required. Such an organization not only manages the forces but also develops weapons and technology in all domains of warfare so that the weapons and personnel remain coherently functional. It enables the combination of the efforts of all participants to perform as a single unified entity. This is why all modern armies developed “Strategic command and control” among their armed forces. 

All-Domain Warfare

According to a 1988 NATO definition, command and control is “the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated individual over assigned resources in the accomplishment of a common goal.”

The U.S. military’s traditional concept for command and control derives from the German military’s “auftragstaktik,” or mission-type orders.27, recognizing that disorder and the “fog of war” are inevitable in military operations, subordinate commanders were entrusted to operate semi-autonomously to achieve their commander’s intent (i.e., the overarching goals of a mission) rather than having pre-scripted movements. 

Not only do the command and control manage the assets of an army (including their prized weapons), but they also work and research on different evolving strategies of multi-domain warfare. Over the past 20 years, China and Russia have observed the United States’ method of war, identifying asymmetric methods to challenge U.S. advantages. China’s military modernization, in particular, focuses on preventing the United States from building large amounts of combat power (limiting logistics), increasing risks for high-value aircraft (tankers, spy planes, command and control aircraft), and increasing its naval footprint (limiting U.S. naval advantages).

The Nuclear arsenal also requires management under such command and control. So apart from the US, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, France, Israel, India, North Korea, and Pakistan are the countries that have Nuclear-armed strategic command and control structures.

To counter these new threats, the US Department of Defense (DOD) initially proposed the idea of using multi-domain operations (which has since transitioned into the term all-domain operations). DOD contends that using one or even two dimensions to attack an adversary is insufficient and that challenging an adversary requires more complex formations (additional dimensions). The increasing dimensions add to the complexity of the battlefield. In this article, we will look at the aspects of the US-CJADC2 (Combined Joint All Domain Command and Control) and some other major applications of Multi-domain warfare in systems developed by private companies.

Joint All-Domain Command JADC2

Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) or CJADC2 (Combined Joint All Domain Command and Control) is the US Department of Defense’s (DOD’s) concept to connect sensors from all of the military services—Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force—into a single network. Traditionally, each of the military services developed its tactical network, which was incompatible with those of other services (e.g., Army networks were unable to interface with Navy or Air Force networks).

With JADC2, DOD envisions creating an “internet of things” network that would connect numerous sensors with weapons systems, using artificial intelligence algorithms to help improve decision-making.

JADC2 envisions providing a cloud-like environment for the joint force to share intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance data, transmitting across many communications networks, to enable faster decision making. JADC2 intends to help commanders make better decisions by collecting data from numerous sensors, processing the data using artificial intelligence algorithms to identify targets, and then recommending the optimal weapon, both kinetic and non-kinetic (e.g., cyber or electronic weapons), to engage the target. 2

VIDEO: www.youtube.com/AirForceTV/CJADC2

Private companies

The private companies working in weapons & technological development have also implemented the concept of multi-domain warfare in their latest research and products. The following are notable examples of such systems:

Lockheed Martin- JADO and NGI

Lockheed Martin has a long list of successful projects and products in the war industry. The “Joint All Domain Operations “JADO) is their latest collaboration with the US DOD that focuses on developing JADO-enabled warfare systems.3 It is developing a network of shooters, sensors, and data from all domains of warfare. This includes applications of Artificial intelligence and machine learning, as the tools enable high precision, fast, and effective decisions. One of such solutions is the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI). 

It is an advanced missile intercept system being designed to provide missile defense against an enemy missile attack. It is designed to “plug and play” with the US Air Force’s network of missile defense satellites and sensors. Its main goal is to provide safety against an enemy missile attack. It utilizes information from the assets present in all mission domains and constructs the flight path of the enemy vehicle as its target. Then it targets the enemy vehicle by launching its missile/missiles to intercept and neutralize the threat.

Airbus Multi-Domain Combat Cloud

Airbus has a proven track record of delivering high-end technology and products meeting the requirements of modern warfare. The Multi-Domain Combat cloud is one of their latest products. It is a decentralized, cyber-resilient, collaborative information network across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains using cloud-based technologies. It integrates cross-domain platforms and enhances defense power by providing information superiority on the battlefield. It makes military operations more efficient and effective by enabling collaborative combat with manned and unmanned assets across all domains of warfare.

VIDEO: www.airbus.com/defense/multi-domain-superiority.html

Impact on Modern Warfare

It is clear that JADC2 has revolutionized modern warfare, and it will pave the way for further advancements. Intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and mission execution strategies will devise new complex warfare scenarios. The Joint All-Domain Operations concept provides commanders access to information that can enable simultaneous and sequential operations using surprise, with rapid and continuous integration of capabilities across all domains—they can gain physical and psychological advantages and influence and control over the operational environment.

Such technologies provide the necessary deterrence for countries that are engaged in active or passive conflicts with their enemies. We can be certain that Joint all-domain warfare is just one of many advanced war strategies that are drawing the canvas of modern warfare.

References:

  1. “Another Bloody Century: Future Warfare”, Colin. S. Gray, Phoenix Press, 2005.   
  2. “Joint All-Domain Command and Control: Background and Issues for Congress”, Hoehn. R. John, August 12, 2021 (https://crsreports.congress.gov).
  3. Air Force Doctrine Publication (AFDP) 3-99, Department of the Air Force role in Joint All Domain Operations (JADO), Curtis E. Lemay Center for Doctrine Development and Education, October 2020. 

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It Begins with a Heartbeat: The Quiet Power of Science and Health in Healing a Nation from Within

Sadaf Sarfraz
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It Begins with a Heartbeat: The Quiet Power of Science and Health in Healing a Nation from Within

It begins with a heartbeat.

A child’s first cry in a distant village hospital. A worried mother is waiting outside an ICU. A scientist bent over a microscope late at night in a lab in Karachi, hoping for clarity in a smear of cells. It begins there, unnoticed by most, but crucial to all. Science has never been just about test tubes and theories. It is a quiet, relentless search for answers in a world plagued by pain. In Pakistan, where disease often finds more homes than medicine, where hospitals overflow but research budgets shrink, scientific knowledge is not a luxury. It is survival.

Each year, Pakistan faces a storm of diseases like dengue outbreaks in the monsoon season, tuberculosis hidden behind stigma, hepatitis C infecting millions in silence, and a rising wave of cancers, diabetes, and mental health disorders. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that Pakistan has one of the highest global burdens of hepatitis C, affecting approximately 8 million people [1].

For every statistic, there is a face. A father who could not afford treatment. A girl was diagnosed too late. A doctor without the tools to save a life. But science offers something invaluable: hope shaped by evidence.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that Pakistan has one of the highest global burdens of hepatitis C, affecting approximately 8 million people. Credit: IntegralGlobal
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that Pakistan has one of the highest global burdens of hepatitis C, affecting approximately 8 million people. Image: IntegralGlobal

When COVID-19 struck the world, many people feared Pakistan would collapse under the pressure. Instead, local scientists developed diagnostic kits [2][1], universities pooled research, and healthcare workers battled on despite meager protective gear. Behind the scenes, a web of data collection, molecular tracking, and genome sequencing helped trace outbreaks and save lives. A report by GISAID showed Pakistan’s growing contribution to the global genome-sharing platform during the pandemic [3].

“The genome of the virus holds the clues. It’s not about panic, it’s about understanding.”
— Dr. Bushra Jamil, Infectious Disease Specialist, AKU

Beyond pandemics, science quietly wages war against chronic diseases that steal health one cell at a time. Take the case of cancer, a disease that is as widespread as it is misunderstood. Just a decade ago, breast cancer treatment in Pakistan largely depended on generalized protocols, often borrowed from international standards without consideration of local genetic diversity. Genomic testing was almost unheard of, and the lack of personalized diagnostics meant treatments were a gamble more than a guarantee.

Moreover, these advancements are helping reduce the emotional and financial toll of cancer. Earlier and more accurate diagnoses prevent families from navigating long, uncertain treatment journeys. They also reduce the risk of over-treatment and the associated side effects, improving the overall quality of life for patients.

But perhaps most importantly, this growing reliance on science signals a cultural shift, a move away from silence and stigma, toward knowledge and empowerment. Families that once saw cancer as a death sentence now have access to information that offers real hope. Doctors who are once treated based on experience now have data to back their decisions.

“In science, we don’t guess. We listen to data, to patients, to patterns. That is how we fight disease.”

When a mobile health van winds its way through the arid landscapes of Tharparkar, offering free hepatitis screenings, it does more than prick fingers and process samples. It restores a sense of visibility and worth to communities too often ignored. For many villagers, this is the first medical attention they have ever received, not just a diagnosis, but a quiet message that they are not forgotten [3].

In a small lab at NUST, a young engineering student spends sleepless nights building a low-cost ventilator. Her project will never headline the evening news. Her name may never be known beyond the university. But she continues, not for recognition, but for the stranger whose life might depend on that machine one day. Her science is not abstract breathes through compassion and quiet conviction [4]. Where resources are scarce, innovation blooms.

How mobile health clinics provide a lifeline for flood-hit communities in Pakistan
A nurse checks the blood pressure of a patient at a mobile health clinic. Image: Insiya Syed/DEC

In Balakot, earthquake survivors were introduced to mental health support rooted in both neurobiology and cultural healing [5]. In Punjab’s rural clinics, AI-based apps now help midwives assess pregnancy risks and refer patients accordingly [8]. Still, the road ahead is steep. Pakistan spends less than 1 percent of its GDP on research and development. Many scientists leave for better-funded labs abroad. Equipment shortages, outdated curriculum, and political apathy threaten the road to progress. But within this struggle lies potential.

However, if we nurtured our scientific talent the way we celebrate our cricket stars. Like health ministries using genomic data to prevent future epidemics, girls in village schools learning biology not as a textbook chapter but as a path to change lives; It can change our fate.

Science is not cold, it is not detached; it is the trembling of a young girl holding her biopsy report. It is the hope in a father’s eyes when told his son’s leukemia is treatable. It is the collective courage of a country that chooses to ask: “Why?” and refuses to stop asking until it finds a cure.

The next chapter of Pakistan’s healthcare must be written not only in prescriptions but in research papers, in clinical trials, in bold funding decisions, and in classrooms where the next generation learns to decode life itself.

It needs to become the heartbeat of our nation’s healing…!

References:

  1. World Health Organization (2023). Hepatitis Country Profiles. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-c
  2. Filip, R., et al., Global Challenges to Public Health Care Systems during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review of Pandemic Measures and Problems. J Pers Med, 2022. 12(8).
  3. https://www.gisaid.org
  4. Sehat Kahani (2023). Telemedicine Expansion Report. https://www.sehatkahani.com
  5. https://www.gisaid.org
  6. https://stage.transparenthands.co.uk/campaigns/help-thousands-of-patients-in-tharparkar-pakistan-via-free-medical-camps/
  7. Rehman, Z., Umair, M., Ikram, A., Fahim, A., & Salman, M. (2022). Footprints of SARS-CoV-2 genome diversity in Pakistan, 2020-2021. Virologica Sinica, 37(1), 153–155. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virs.2022.01.009
  8. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/238045815_Training_Pakistani_mental_health_workers_in_EMDR_in_the_aftermath_of_the_2005_earthquake_in_Northern_Pakistan
  9. https://nust.edu.pk/news/nust-made-diagnostic-kits-for-covid-19-get-nod-from-drap-over-successful-lab-trials/
  10. Filip, R., et al., Global Challenges to Public Health Care Systems during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review of Pandemic Measures and Problems. J Pers Med, 2022. 12(8).

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Navigating the Lab: Unpacking Ethical Dilemmas in Scientific Research

Gulle Lalah
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Navigating the Lab: Unpacking Ethical Dilemmas in Scientific Research

Mad scientists creating havoc with their wild inventions– a common sci-fi movie theme we have all come across. How close is this depiction to reality? While overly dramatized, scientific misconduct is actually a major threat to science as well as the general community.

In extreme cases of ethical misconduct, bioterrorism-like incidents have been reported where harmful laboratory agents are intentionally used as a bio-weapon to bring harm. One historic incident, ‘The Rajneeshee Bio-terror Attack’, involved such misuse of a biological agent – Salmonella enterica, which was used to infect salad bars in 10 restaurants in Oregon, USA (1984). Today, the Ebola virus is a major bio-threat and therefore contained in BSL-4 (highly secure lab level) as its virulence is much higher than that of smallpox or anthrax (Gunaratne, 2015).

Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) – A Double-Edged Sword

A main challenge in research is ensuring the right intention of using a potentially harmful agent for the right purpose of bringing about benefit. This is scientifically termed as the ‘Dual Use Research of Concern’ (DURC), where a research study has an equal potential to benefit or harm. Often in labs, we deal with hazardous chemicals, formulations, or pathogens that need stringent containment. One important example is the engineered strain of influenza virus, which could result in a pandemic if accidentally or intentionally spread (MacIntyre, 2015).

In this regard, the WHO provided a framework of guidelines in 2022 with DURC being the major consideration. These guidelines help to promote a comprehensive biorisk management approach and address risks like lab accidents, misuse of research, or unintended consequences (World Health Organization, 2023).

Tuskegee Syphilis Study - ethical considerations in science
A doctor draws blood from one of the Tuskegee test subjects

Beyond Physical Misuse – The Scope and Need of Research Ethics

In addition to physical misuse of bioagents, ethical conduct is essential to ensure data accuracy and credibility. Responsible conduct also extends beyond laboratory work. In scientific writing and publishing, ethical behavior is equally important to prevent the spread of false or biased information to wide audiences. Since research is a collaborative effort involving many contributors and stakeholders, it is also important to protect their rights throughout the research process (Daniel, 2013).

With the increased pace of scientific innovations and developments, especially in the areas of Biotechnology, Biomedical Research, and Genetics with AI (Artificial Intelligence) integration, ethical norms need to be revised and evolved at the same level. Although the baseline ethical principles remain the same, we need data protection rights and the long-term effects of innovations to be considered before launching it to the masses. Moreover, today’s public is more aware and well-connected through several online platforms. They expect a more transparent approach regarding information sharing and scientific publications.

Some other factors adding to the need for ethical conduct are:

  • Protecting Research Credibility

Trust is a product of scientific credibility, which in turn can be assured through clear and open methods of research, proper peer review, and following a definite research protocol. This helps reduce the risk of bias, fraud, or even unintentional mistakes, thereby strengthening the quality and reliability of scientific work, e.g., revealing any conflict of interest and ensuring research credibility.

  • Benefiting the Society

Research ethics also makes sure the research being conducted is purposeful and aimed for a positive impact on society, e.g., Justice and Beneficence are the ethical norms that guide researchers to seek public health and wellbeing solutions.

  • Building Public Confidence

Ethics in research ensure responsibility, care, and respect for all the living and non-living resources. Thus, ethical research establishes a connection of trust and confidence between science and society.

Ethical Misconducts of the Past – Shaping Present Research Ethics

Some of the darkest moments in scientific history have driven the evolution of today’s strict ethical guidelines (Miteu, 2024).

  • Tuskegee Syphilis Study (1932–1972)

In this U.S. Public Health Service study, African American men with syphilis were neither informed of their diagnosis nor offered treatment, even after penicillin became available. Treated as mere subjects, they suffered needlessly for decades. Public outrage following the study’s exposure led to the Belmont Report (1979), which established core principles of ethical research: respect, beneficence, and justice.

  • Thalidomide Tragedy (1950s–1960s)

Marketed in Europe as a safe drug for morning sickness, Thalidomide caused thousands of severe birth defects due to unrecognized teratogenic effects. The tragedy exposed serious gaps in drug testing and communication about risks. In response, drug regulations were overhauled, demanding rigorous clinical trials and informed consent before a drug could reach the market.

  • Stanford Prison Experiment (1971)

Designed to study human behavior under perceived power roles, this psychological experiment quickly spiraled into emotional abuse and mental trauma for participants. The event highlighted the urgent need for mental health protections during research and reinforced the importance of clear ethical oversight in experimental design.

Today, research ethics ensure that not only human subjects but all stakeholders—including researchers and the environment—are protected. From informed chemical handling in labs to responsible waste disposal, every step matters. The image below illustrates some of the main ethical considerations in a research setting:

Scientific Research
Ethical Considerations in Scientific Research – A Mind Map. Photo, Dreamstime

The 3 Domains and Major Norms of Ethical Research

Owing to the need for ethical conduct throughout the research process, research ethics majorly apply to the 3 areas of the inquiry itself, the researchers, and the research participants (Weinbaum et al., 2019).

These 3 domains with the relevant elements described are given below:

The following figure provides a more comprehensive overview of the main ethical norms in scientific research and their meaning (Weinbaum et al., 2019).

Scientific

Ethical Conduct in Writing and Publication

Two major ethical concerns in scientific writing are:

  • Plagiarism

It involves using someone else’s ideas, methods, results, or words without proper acknowledgment. While plagiarism is often intentional, it can sometimes happen unintentionally. Plagiarism may be self-plagiarism (using own publication without citing) and duplicate publication (publishing the same to multiple journals, disguising it as new), both of which are serious issues. Plagiarism is of 2 types (Carver et al., 2011). Every year, more papers are retracted because of duplicate publication, damaging both individual reputations and public trust in science.

  • Authorship

It is extremely important to credit major research contributors and list them as authors in a proper sequence to ensure research integrity. Giving authorship to individuals who did not contribute dilutes the recognition of those who worked on the study.

Main Bodies Governing Research Ethics

Several institutions play a key role in ensuring that research is conducted responsibly and ethically (Miteu, 2024). The major one is the Institutional Review Boards (IRB), which are institutional committees that review, approve, and monitor studies involving human subjects. Their main job is to protect participants’ rights and welfare. After careful review of each research design, the IRB may impose sanctions to handle ethical violations by allowing a change of research design or completely halting the research.

In addition to IRBs, several international organizations reinforce ethical standards, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), which enforces ethical guidelines in biosciences and biomedical research and the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE), which provides ethical standards for scientific publishing.

A Concluding Note:

At its core, ethical research is about respecting the knowledge, participants, and the broader community. Ethics is not solely the responsibility of organizations; it begins at home and grows within the community. Parents play a key role by teaching empathy, kindness, and respect for all living beings. As children grow, society further shapes their sense of honesty and responsibility, laying the foundation for ethical behavior in all aspects of life, including research.

In addition, it is not enough to follow regulations; researchers must foster a deeper culture of responsibility, where critical thinking, fairness, and openness are everyday practices. By staying committed to these values, science can continue to meet society’s greatest needs without compromising its integrity.

References:

  1. Gunaratne, N. D. (2015). The Ebola virus and the threat of bioterrorism. Fletcher F. World Aff., 39, 63.
  2. MacIntyre, C. R. (2015). Re-thinking the ethics of dual-use research of concern on transmissible pathogens. Environment Systems and Decisions, 35, 129-132.
  3. World Health Organization. (2023). Fostering the responsible use of the life sciences: Mitigating biorisks and governing dual-use research. In Fostering the responsible use of the life sciences: mitigating biorisks and governing dual-use research.
  4. Daniel, K. (2013). An assessment of ethical issues in social and scientific research.
  5. Miteu, G. D. (2024). Ethics in scientific research: a lens into its importance, history, and future. Annals of Medicine and Surgery, 86(5), 2395-2398.
  6. Weinbaum, C., Landree, E., Blumenthal, M. S., Piquado, T., & Gutierrez, C. I. (2019). Ethics in scientific research. RAND Corporation.
  7. Carver, J. D., Dellva, B., Emmanuel, P. J., & Parchure, R. (2011). Ethical considerations in scientific writing. Indian Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and AIDS, 32(2), 124-128.

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Bridging Knowledge and Society: The Crucial Role of Scientists in Our Social Contract

Khair ul Bariyah
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Bridging Knowledge and Society: The Crucial Role of Scientists in Our Social Contract

We live in a world shaped by technology and rapid innovation over time. It has become increasingly clear that science holds the power to either provide promising solutions or worsen existing challenges.  In many circles, there is a growing concern that science is not taking adequate responsibility for these challenges, even though it is widely believed that scientists hold the key to knowledge and a profound responsibility. This responsibility has long been referred to as the social contract of science.

This agreement is an obligation to scientists to apply their expertise for the benefit of society, as responsible citizens and individuals with moral duties. This is not about attacks from non-scientific sectors that aim to discredit science, but rather about the expectations of those who value and recognize scientists as a force for positive change.

The idea of the social contract of science emerged during and after World War II. In 1945, Vannevar Bush’s report Science, The Endless Frontier urged governments to invest in scientific research, based on the belief that it would yield benefits in medicine, agriculture, defense, and industry. Scientists were expected to be granted autonomy and public trust to apply their knowledge visibly and effectively to societal challenges.

“Science, in the service of society, must be both a public trust and a public endeavor.” — Jane Lubchenco, former NOAA Administrator

Scientific research is, more often than not, publicly funded—whether through national grants, university salaries, institutional infrastructure, or taxpayer support. The expected return on these investments comes in the form of a healthier environment, improved education, and ultimately, a safer world. Scientific research is seen as falling short of public expectations if it remains confined solely to academic circles.

A powerful example of science serving the public good was witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scientists worked brilliantly to sequence the virus’s genome and developed vaccines at an unprecedented pace. The timely distribution of vaccines across borders helped save millions of lives, setting a strong example of science acting in a socially responsible and transparent manner.

With every advancement in science and technology, there is always an associated risk of misuse. For instance, while nuclear physics has provided us with clean energy, it has also been repurposed for harm through the development of nuclear weapons. Similarly, artificial intelligence (AI), though it has made our lives easier in many ways, comes with drawbacks such as job displacement, diminished originality, and growing concerns over surveillance.

This places a significant ethical responsibility on scientists, as they are the ones who must anticipate potential misuse and advocate for appropriate rules and regulations as research is translated into real-world applications. The Hippocratic Oath for Scientists, proposed by some ethicists, calls on researchers to pledge that their work will serve the good of humanity.

Real-World Examples of Science in Service

Dr Wangari Maathai

Dr Wangari was a Kenyan biologist, environmentalist, and political activist who launched the Green Belt Movement in Kenya in 1977. The initiative aimed to combat deforestation, raise awareness about environmental conservation, and empower women by promoting the idea that women could plant trees to achieve these benefits.

She helped women gain access to land, resources, and education. Over 51 million trees were planted in Kenya, creating employment opportunities. In recognition of her efforts, she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004, becoming the first African woman to receive it. She was an advocate for human rights and was arrested multiple times in her fight for freedom of expression, political transparency, and land rights.

Dr Wangari promoted a holistic approach to sustainability, interconnecting environmental health, social justice, and peace. She served as a UN Messenger of Peace and actively participated in various global environmental forums. She brought African environmental issues into the global spotlight and played an inspirational role in climate activism, particularly among women and youth in the Global South.

Dr Peter Doherty & Dr Rolf Zinkernagel

Dr Peter and Dr Rolf conducted groundbreaking research in the field of immunology, which led to the development of life-saving transplant and vaccine protocols. They discovered the role of T-cells in recognizing infected cells, which was a significant addition to our understanding of T-cell function in the immune system and the role of MHC (Major Histocompatibility Complex) molecules in antigen presentation and immune recognition.

Their work earned the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1996 and continues to have a lasting impact on global health, providing insights into both immune defense and autoimmune diseases.

Dr Katharine Hayhoe

Dr Hayhoe is an atmospheric scientist who believes that science and religion are not in conflict. She actively works to bridge the gap between scientific and faith communities. As a science communicator, she raises awareness about climate action using language that is clear, relatable, and easy to understand. She co-authored a book titled A Climate for Change, which motivates faith-based groups to take action on climate change.

Dr Hayhoe is the director of the Climate Science Center at Texas Tech University, where she supervises research on local climate impacts and strategies for adaptation. She advocates for policy changes to support effective climate action and has received numerous awards, including being named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2020.

Timothy Berners-Lee

He invented the World Wide Web (WWW) and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his pioneering work. Tim Berners-Lee created the world’s first website in 1991. He also developed the first web server, httpd. In 1989, while working at CERN, he proposed a system to share documents online, which later evolved into the World Wide Web. He has made notable contributions to the development of the Internet and the way people interact globally.

Timothy developed HTML, URI, and HTTP, which laid the foundation for the modern web. He is the founder of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) at MIT, established in 1994 to develop open standards and ensure the growth and accessibility of the web. He has advocated for decentralized technologies like Solid, which give users control over their personal data through individual “pods.” He is also a strong proponent of net neutrality, online rights, and the ethical use of evolving technologies.

Easy Science Communication

The true essence of the social contract is not merely to make great scientific discoveries. If scientific knowledge exceeds the level of public understanding, it loses its practical value. Scientists must communicate complex ideas in simple, accessible language so that policymakers, educators, and citizens can understand and act on them effectively.

Today, public engagement has become easier through tools such as infographics, open-access publications, and social media. Scientists carry the responsibility of building public trust, not only by conducting outstanding research in the lab but also by addressing it clearly and thoughtfully in lecture halls and public forums.

“The challenge of science communication is not just to inform, but to involve.” — Alan Leshner, Former CEO of AAAS

Several issues that continue to arise on a daily basis—such as counterfeit medicines and data misuse—have shaken the public’s trust in science. To rebuild this trust, the scientific community must embrace accountability, which becomes more effective when scientists are actively involved in policy discussions.

The social contract of science is a lifelong commitment. We need scientists who are not only experts in their fields but also champions of human welfare. Responsible research, paired with responsible communication and a strong commitment to preventing misuse, is the cornerstone of ethical science.

References:

  • Guston, D. H. (2000). Retiring the social contract for science. Issues in science and technology, 16(4), 32-36.
  • Gibbons, M. (1999). Science’s new social contract with society. Nature, 402(Suppl 6761), C81-C84.
  • Bush, V. (1945). Science, The Endless Frontier. United States Government Printing Office.
  • Douglas, H. (2009). Science, Policy, and the Value-Free Ideal. University of Pittsburgh Press.
  • O’Neil, C. (2016). Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy. Crown Publishing Group.
  • Lubchenco, J. (1998). Entering the century of the environment: A new social contract for science. Science, 279(5350), 491–497.
  • Leshner, A. (2003). Public engagement with science. Science, 299(5609), 977

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STEAM Education: Igniting a New Dawn for Pakistan’s Future

Muniba Usman
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STEAM Education: Igniting a New Dawn for Pakistan’s Future

In the heart of Lahore, a group of young girls in a public school gathered around a table, excitedly testing a solar-powered water pump model they had built using scrap material. Guided by their science teacher and supported by a local NGO’s STEAM initiative, the students proudly presented their project to a group of visitors, explaining how it could help irrigate small fields in their village. This is not just a science project; it’s a glimpse into the transformative potential of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education in Pakistan.

In a global landscape increasingly shaped by technological advancements and interdisciplinary challenges, it has become essential to adopt educational approaches that transcend traditional frameworks.1

In a country where the traditional education system still heavily relies on rote memorization, the introduction of STEAM programs is proving to be a game-changer. Such programs focus on inquiry-based learning, creativity, and real-world problem-solving, the skills crucial for thriving in today’s fast-changing technological world.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Application

Pakistani classrooms have long been criticized for lacking hands-on learning. “Our students could recite Newton’s Laws, but had no idea how to apply them,” shared Ms. Asma, a physics teacher in Rawalpindi. However, with the introduction of low-cost STEAM labs in several public schools through government and private partnerships, students now engage in activities that bridge the gap between theory and practical application.

In most public schools, students often focus solely on rote learning to secure good grades. This culture prioritizes memorization over understanding, leaving the students ill-prepared to apply their knowledge in practical settings. Despite living in an era of digital literacy, many government institutions remain trapped in traditional frameworks, failing to provide the practical education necessary for students to thrive in modern society.2

Moreover, with the world rapidly moving toward AI, robotics, and digital innovation, a STEAM-based curriculum ensures that Pakistani students aren’t left behind. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, over 85 million jobs may be displaced by automation, but 97 million new roles may emerge, heavily relying on digital literacy, analytical skills, and creativity, all nurtured through STEAM education.

STEAM
Despite its promise, the road to widespread STEAM adoption is not without hurdles. Photo. Robotmea

Encouraging Research and Innovation

Pakistan ranks low in global research output and innovation indexes. A primary reason is the lack of exposure and interest in science and technology from an early age. “Our children need to see science not just as a subject, but as a tool for change,” said Dr. Shazia Malik, a science educator who runs community-based STEAM clubs in rural Sindh. These clubs are helping children develop prototypes to solve local issues, from water purification to energy generation.

Women and Rural Inclusion in STEAM Education

STEAM is also playing a vital role in gender and regional inclusivity. In Balochistan, a program called Tech for Girls is training underprivileged girls in basic coding, design thinking, and problem-solving. “Before this, many girls didn’t even know what engineering meant,” said Bushra, a community coordinator in Quetta. Now, several of her students are applying for science scholarships.

Barriers to Implementing learning programs

Despite its promise, the road to widespread STEAM adoption is not without hurdles. Many schools lack the infrastructure, like labs, equipment, or internet connectivity, to support practical learning. Moreover, most teachers are untrained in STEAM methodology. “I was never trained to conduct experiments or integrate art into science lessons,” admitted a government school teacher in Faisalabad.

Societal mindsets also remain a challenge. Parents often view arts as secondary and are hesitant about unconventional careers in digital arts or entrepreneurship. However, growing success stories—like Pakistani startups in AI, biotechnology, and design are beginning to shift perspectives.

Solutions on the Horizon

Education experts suggest urgent curriculum reform, investment in teacher training, and increased public-private collaboration to scale STEAM programs. Several local EdTech companies and NGOs are stepping in with cost-effective kits, mobile labs, and online training modules to bridge gaps.

Furthermore, nationwide awareness programs, science fairs, and innovation challenges are needed to promote STEAM culture. Programs like Pakistan Science Club, CodeGirls, Science Fuse 4, and Robotics for All are already paving the way.

By 2027, STEAM Pakistan intends to achieve some decided outcomes for gender-transformative STEAM education across Pakistan, like the transformation of all government high schools (13,000+) across the country through the STEAM Pakistan School Partnership Journey, and paving the way to train science teachers. 3

The Way Forward!

If effectively implemented, STEAM education can empower Pakistan’s youth to become future innovators, engineers, digital artists, and problem solvers. It promises a future where students not only learn but create; where they don’t just memorize, but question and innovate.

The story of those young girls with the solar water pump is just one of many waiting to unfold across Pakistan. With continued efforts, STEAM education could very well be the catalyst that propels the country into a future of economic and technological progress.

References:

  1. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1272629-steaming-ahead-in-education
  2. https://tribune.com.pk/story/2530075/steam-education-in-schools
  3. https://mofept.gov.pk/ProjectDetail/NzJlYWE3MTctNTMzNy00MDVkLWJjODQtMjM3Zjc5NTYwOGU4 
  4. https://www.linkedin.com/company/sciencefuse/?originalSubdomain=pk

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Tracing the Blueprint of Life – A Review of The Gene: An Intimate History

Khadija Tariq
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Tracing the Blueprint of Life – A Review of The Gene: An Intimate History

The story of genetics begins long before the word itself existed—hidden in the cross-pollinated flowers of Gregor Mendel’s monastery garden, in the careful records of inherited traits passed down like folklore. From Darwin’s quiet musings to the frenzied race to decode DNA’s double helix, the history of the gene is one of patient observation disrupted by bursts of revelation.

The discipline has provided answers to medical, as well as philosophical and historical questions. It asks a question as old as life itself: Why are we the way we are? To sum it all up, genes contain the history of our cells, our ancestry, and by definition, our future as well.

Siddhartha Mukherjee discusses THE GENE: An Intimate History | Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Siddhartha Mukherjee, the author of The Gene: An Intimate History, the book on which this documentary is based on. Credit: old Spring Harbor Laboratory

As mentioned in the documentary:

“The DNA is not just a genetic code but also in some sense a moral code”

In The Gene: An Intimate History, this question is explored not just through science but through story. The documentary starts with a compelling scene when Dr. He Jiankui is being questioned on his unethical research of editing human embryos in 2018. After which it switches to a family with a kifA1 mutation then it goes on the science behind the disease.

The documentary traces the journey from early theories of heredity to the breakthroughs of modern gene editing. It moves between laboratories and living rooms, from Nobel-winning discoveries to families facing inherited illness very efficiently. Mukherjee’s firm narrative floats between the microscopic and the human. The structure of DNA is not just a scientific code—it is a map of identity, vulnerability, and hope.

As the documentary takes us through all the advancements 20th century it also reflects upon the impact of those advancements on our society like the idea of a pseudo-science of Eugenics proposed by Francis Galton. Any scientific discovery can have positive and negative applications, be it the atomic bomb or the understanding of our inheritance. It is up to us as human beings to educate and learn from our past mistakes.

Towards the end, we see the rise of CRISPR, a tool that cuts DNA with surgical precision and can be used to edit it. We witness how each advancement opens doors that science once thought permanently closed throughout the programme.

Sloan Science & Film
The documentary talks about the advent of Eugenics in America, which led to 64000 forced sterilizations in the country, mostly targeting women

As gene editing becomes reality, society is faced with new ethical challenges. Should we alter the code of future generations? What happens to the concept of “normal” when change becomes a choice? The documentary does not offer easy answers. Instead, it lingers in the grey zones—where science and morality meet, where progress carries both promise and peril. Genetic knowledge can heal, but it can also divide. The risk of a new eugenics, hidden behind the mask of progress, casts a quiet, persistent shadow.

On the other hand, the use of gene therapy and gene editing is saving precious little lives that would never have a chance to live. Yoder family is a great example as they lost their baby girl to Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) at 18 months of age, the normal life expectancy of those with SMA being 1 year. However, due to advancements in the field, they were able to test the next child right after birth and upon confirmation of the mutation; he was enrolled in a gene therapy trial. Excitingly, the baby responded very well to the drug and did not just survive but lived a normal healthy life.

PBS documentary 'The Gene' showcases genetics' promise and pitfalls | Science News
The documentary about the history of genetics also details the story of children like Susannah, who suffers from a rare genetic disease

Documentaries and books like The Gene matter. They are bridges—between scientists and citizens, between facts and feelings. They open up complex ideas in ways that invite curiosity rather than overwhelm. In a time where science moves faster than public understanding, such works are acts of translation. They remind us that science is not just about data, but about people. Moreover, every discovery, no matter how clinical it seems, begins and ends in the human story.

We as society have a huge responsibility of the utilisation of scientific discoveries and inventions in a positive manner. The responsibility I fear does not just lie on scientists. It is of utmost importance to translate scientific knowledge for public consumption and for sections of our society that can contribute to the ethics of science.

The documentary is available at PBS, Apple TV.

References:

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Will U.S. funding policies stall scientific innovation and research?

Sara Sultan
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Will U.S. funding policies stall scientific innovation and research?

I wanted to become a professor for as long as I remember. “I will study Chemistry and get a Ph.D.,” the 15-year-old me told her father- crushing his dream of raising a doctor in the family. A family where I was the first-generation university student. A family where continuing education after 16 years was a huge deal for men, much rather for women.

Growing up in a lower middle-class family at a small village with limited access to resources and little to none guidance, having just the ambition of becoming a scientist was nothing short of extraordinary.

I couldn’t afford that dream but I never stopped trying.

While applying for Masters program at NUST, I told my parents that I would quit if I couldn’t get a scholarship- betting everything on USAID scholarships which had 50% quota for women.

USAID did eventually save my life..

I not only received a fully funded scholarship to cover my Master’s degree, but I got selected for the USAID exchange program to visit the United States.

My first ever international experience, all paid for by USAID. The experience that opened many doors for me.

A year later, I won a fellowship to work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. I received my Ph.D. I became a renowned scientist. I became a policy maker.

Would I still be all that if USAID didn’t take a chance on me? Probably not in the same way.

Funding Suspension and Its Impact

The USAID funding cut is part of broader reductions in US foreign aid under the “America First” policy, leading to the suspension of multiple initiatives across Pakistan. The $30.7 million scholarship programme was among the casualties, severely impacting students from low-income backgrounds, particularly those from areas devastated by the 2022 floods.

In a country like Pakistan where women’s education is still a taboo, death of programs like USAID, Tech Women, and Global Ugrad means much more than just a lost opportunity. It represents the crushed hopes of millions of aspiring girls. And not just the aspirants but their families. Many of those program’s awardees continued their academic career within the U.S. and supported their families back home.

U.S. This is the announcement of the suspension of the Global UGRAD program. Credit: USEFP
The USAID funding cut is part of broader reductions in US foreign aid policy, leading to the suspension of multiple initiatives across Pakistan. This is the announcement of the suspension of the Global UGRAD program. Credit: USEFP

The problem is deeper than we can imagine. These programs were dismantled because billions in the federal funds had been frozen by the U.S. government earlier this year.

Those funds didn’t just represent USAID and international programs, the major portion was of the research grants for academic institutions and national laboratories in the U.S. Those grants ultimately fund the Ph.D. and postdoctoral researchers, who now face immense challenges.

A shift in Academia – Researchers struggling to retain their jobs in the U.S.  

Academia all across the U.S. is going through a hiring freeze. Ph.D. and Postdoc offers are being rescinded. Faculty positions are being slashed. Federal scientists and researchers are being fired.

Harvard University recently filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming that its freezing of federal grants worth billions of dollars is unlawful.

Harvard’s president, Alan M Garber, announced the action on Monday in a letter to the university community, which said the $2bn funding freeze would hamper critical disease research.

Harvard, the world’s richest university, last week rejected a list of demands that the Trump administration said was designed to curb diversity initiatives and fight anti-semitism at the school.

Despite such resistance, the future of science and innovation is uncertain as the academic institutions and even startups are struggling to maintain their research activities. Many established research programs at renowned institutions are halted.

International mobility and women’s education

U.S. institutions, long prized by international scholars for their robust research ecosystems, now offer fewer opportunities. The international talent mobility will be hit hard.

Limited funds translate to fewer research projects for academia, which directly impacts the ability of professors to hire Ph.D. students as research assistants for their grants. Many departments will drastically cut back on inducting Ph.D. and postdocs (as evident by the hiring freezes), making the graduate admissions highly competitive.

In such a cutthroat environment, women and disadvantaged individuals from marginalized communities will be the ones who are most affected.

For the next few years, scientific research and innovation within the U.S. will continue to suffer
For the next few years, scientific research and innovation within the U.S. will continue to suffer

Should international students still target U.S. graduate schools?

It makes it challenging if we put all our hopes in one place – the U.S. in this case. For the next few years, (as a result of funding cuts), the scientific research and innovation within the U.S. will continue to suffer, making it increasingly difficult for international researchers, especially women, to enter and survive. The research assistantships and postdoctoral opportunities have become largely unstable.

U.S. used to be a hub for scientific innovations and international mobility, but not anymore. And the world still has plenty to offer. Find top professors in your field and reach out to them regardless of where they are based. But remember that the competition will be tough this year.

Advice for study abroad aspirants

Aspiring scientists wanting to stand out in such a competitive landscape should learn to market themselves in addition to enhancing their academic profile. Learn communication skills and get more visibility through conferences and social media.

Through my academic pursuits, I have learned that self-awareness is the key. Students should understand what they are passionate about. They should do research on their target institute and professors. They should understand the value they can offer to (and gain from) the host institution. They should be aware of the career opportunities and immigration pathways because navigating life as a foreigner is not any easier even after graduation. Knowledge is power and makes us vigilant about our choices.

If you belong to an underrepresented group and you can’t leverage financial or social privileges, remember that resilience and perseverance will take you forward. You can’t get what you give up on. So keep showing up, for yourself, and for science! I did too..

Editor’s Note:

Dr Sara Sultan Aqib is a role model for millions of Pakistani girls and women willing to pursue their careers in offbeat science fields. Born and raised in Haripur, KPK, Sara completed her Master’s in Energy System Engineering from USPCASE NUST.  She attended a semester exchange program at Oregon State University through a USAID project.

After graduating from USPCASE in 2017, she earned a prestigious fellowship by the U.S. Department of Energy to work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) – the world’s biggest energy lab. She joined the Bredesen Center at the University of Tennessee (UTK) to pursue a Ph.D. in Energy Science and Engineering.

During her Ph.D., Sara’s groundbreaking research on thermal energy storage garnered numerous accolades, including being named a Linda Latham Scholar by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), being selected as an innovator through Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s tech-to-market accelerator program, IMPEL+, and winning various best paper awards at conferences such as Duke Energy Week.

Sara, currently a senior staff member in the Buildings Standards Branch of the California Energy Commission (CEC), leads the policy development for thermal storage and building envelopes, streamlining the compliance and rule-making for California’s energy code.

A proud alumnus of the University of Tennessee, she was recognised as “40 under 40 alumni” and joined an esteemed rank of alumni who demonstrated exemplary leadership and extraordinary achievements in their fields. Read more

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The Power of Numbers: How Population Trends Impact Our Future

Yameen Bin Yahya
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The Power of Numbers: How Population Trends Impact Our Future

We live in a world where one part could be experiencing huge population growth, and the other could collapse because of its aging population crisis. For example, Japan, with its aging population, is struggling to find a new workforce; China and India, with their rapidly growing populations, are struggling to develop infrastructure at such a rapid pace. And countries like Pakistan have issues feeding their huge population.

The rapid urbanization stresses infrastructure, while the youth demand education. Declining birth rates necessitate policy shifts. Understanding fertility, migration, and age structures is crucial.

Population projections aid healthcare and education planning. Spatial analysis reveals resource inconsistencies, and statistical models link trends to economic growth.

Understanding the dynamics of fertility, migration, and age structures is no longer an academic exercise. It is essential for planning our future. Population projections shape everything from healthcare systems to educational frameworks, while spatial analysis exposes deep inequities in resource distribution. Statistical models reveal how demographic patterns are intimately linked to economic growth or decline. This is not a distant issue; the population crisis is unfolding now, and if ignored, its consequences will be devastating.

Global Warning Signs: We Can No Longer Ignore!

The global population surpassed 8 billion in 2022 and is projected to exceed 10 billion by 2050. Much of this growth is occurring in regions least equipped to handle it—sub-Saharan Africa will nearly double in population, South Asia will increase by nearly 10 percent, and parts of the Middle East.

In these areas, essential services like clean water, electricity, healthcare, and education are already strained or inaccessible. High fertility rates combined with poverty, weak governance, and limited infrastructure create a cycle of suffering. The bigger the population grows, the harder it becomes to climb out of poverty or provide opportunities.

At the same time, many high-income nations are experiencing a demographic downturn. Japan, Germany, South Korea, and Italy all face shrinking populations due to dramatically low birth rates, with the latter having the lowest birth rates of any country, with 5.62 births per 1000, and longer life expectancies.

An aging population brings major consequences. Fewer working-age individuals mean slower economic growth, social welfare systems become unsustainable, healthcare costs skyrocket, and innovation and labor productivity decline. Without significant immigration or radical policy reform, these countries are headed for economic stagnation and social stress.

Meanwhile, in Pakistan, over the past two decades,  the population has grown rapidly from around 140 million in the early 2000s to over 240 million today. This explosive growth has placed immense pressure on the country’s already fragile infrastructure, society, and livelihoods. Major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad are struggling to keep up with the demand for housing, clean water, education, and healthcare. Rural areas face persistent issues of poverty, limited access to services, and high birth rates.

Although the federal government has introduced family planning initiatives and awareness campaigns, progress has been slow due to inconsistent implementation, political neglect, and cultural barriers. With a large portion of the population under 30, the country faces mounting challenges in creating enough jobs, feeding its people, and preventing further social instability. Without serious long-term policy planning and investment in human development, the consequences of this unchecked growth will only deepen.

The Dual Demographic Crisis: Declining Fertility and the Politics of Migration

Over 50 percent of the world’s population now lives in urban areas, a figure that’s growing rapidly. But instead of prosperity, urbanization often brings overcrowding, pollution, and infrastructure collapse. Informal settlements grow faster than cities can build roads, homes, or sanitation systems. Housing crises, traffic gridlock, rising inequality, and social unrest are all symptoms of urban systems pushed beyond their limits. In many cities, the pace of population growth has long since outstripped the capacity for planning.

Countries like Spain, Italy, South Korea, and parts of Eastern Europe have fertility rates far below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. This creates a domino effect. Schools and childcare services downsize, housing markets weaken, workforces shrink, and consumer demand drops. Governments introduce incentives like tax breaks and paid parental leave, but so far, these efforts haven’t been enough to reverse the trend.

Migration has always been a tool to balance demographic imbalances—young workers from one region helping support aging populations in another. But today, migration is increasingly viewed through a political lens. Climate refugees, economic migrants, and asylum seekers often face hostile borders and xenophobic rhetoric.

Developed nations resist the very migration flows they need to sustain their economies. Meanwhile, low-income countries lose valuable talent to brain drain. Without coordinated global policy, migration will continue to be a source of division rather than a solution.

population
Kolkata Flower Market. November 2022. Photo, Unsplash

The Data Has Been Clear for Years

Demographers, scientists, and data analysts have been sounding the alarm for decades. The tools exist to predict and prepare for these shifts, but are largely underused or ignored. Census and household surveys provide long-term demographic trends in age, fertility, and household composition. Statistical models help forecast economic, environmental, and health impacts of population shifts.

With the rise of artificial intelligence and big data, it is now possible to track migration patterns, urbanization, and resource use in real time. Spatial analysis can pinpoint which regions are being left behind or overburdened. Longitudinal studies reveal how demographic changes compound over time and affect generational outcomes.

Despite the wealth of data and insight, political will remains weak. Decision-makers often delay action due to short election cycles, misinformation, or public resistance to unpopular reforms. The gap between what we know and what we do continues to grow, with potentially catastrophic consequences.

The Price of Inaction

If current trends continue without significant intervention, the cost will be enormous. Countries with aging populations face rising healthcare costs, pension shortfalls, and slowed economic growth. Such as Finland and Japan, meanwhile, nations with uncontrolled population growth remain locked in cycles of poverty and underdevelopment, unable to scale up services or generate sufficient jobs.

More people mean more consumption of energy, water, land, and food. Overcrowded cities become hotbeds of pollution and disease. Natural resources are depleted faster than they can be replenished, and environmental degradation accelerates. An aging population requires expensive, long-term care. In overpopulated regions, hospitals become overwhelmed and sanitation systems collapse. Public health emergencies become more common and harder to control.

Youth unemployment, climate migration, and social inequality are fertile ground for extremism. When people lose faith in institutions and the future looks bleak, authoritarianism gains appeal. Polarized politics, ethnic tensions, and nationalist ideologies feed off demographic pressures. Social cohesion fractures, and the risk of conflict increases.

What Can Be Done?

There’s still time to respond—if we act wisely and quickly. Developed countries must create legal, efficient pathways for immigration. These policies should attract young, skilled workers and support their integration into society. At the same time, governments must invest in young families. Making parenthood more affordable through housing support, childcare subsidies, and workplace flexibility is crucial to reversing declining birth rates.

Urban planning must become more forward-looking and inclusive. Cities need better public transport, more green space, and sustainable infrastructure to meet the demands of the future. Technological solutions like automation and artificial intelligence can help offset labor shortages, particularly in healthcare, logistics, and aging services. But technology alone is not enough.

International collaboration is essential; Countries must work together to manage migration, share data, support vulnerable regions, and invest in climate resilience. Demographic challenges do not respect borders, and global cooperation is the only way to manage them effectively.

The Clock Is Ticking

The population crisis is already reshaping our world. The data is clear, the impacts are visible, and the stakes are incredibly high. Whether it’s the collapse of an aging society, the strain of overpopulation, or the chaos of unmanaged migration, inaction is no longer an option. We can’t stop demographic change, but we can shape our response to it. With smart policy, global cooperation, and science-led strategies, we still have a chance to turn this crisis into a catalyst for renewal.

The question is not whether change is coming. It’s whether we will be ready when it does!

References: 

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