# Scientia Magazine

> Scientia


## Posts

- [Challenges in Science Education in Pakistan and the Shift Beyond Rote Learning](https://scientiamag.org/challenges-in-science-education-in-pakistan-and-the-shift-beyond-rote-learning/): Students quickly disengage from traditional science classes until something hands-on begins.
- [When the Brain Never Switches Off: Understanding Chronic Stress in Pakistan](https://scientiamag.org/when-the-brain-never-switches-off-understanding-chronic-stress-in-pakistan/): Public health specialists and mental health practitioners recommend integrating routine mental health screening into primary healthcare so stress-related conditions can be identified before they escalate.
- [Pakistan's Climate Migrants: A Window into an Escalating Crisis](https://scientiamag.org/pakistans-climate-migrants-a-window-into-an-escalating-crisis/): A 2020 analysis found that each severe weather event caused an average of 20,000 displacements in low-income countries compared to just 4,000 in the wealthiest.
- [Is Spacetime on the Brink? Why Physicists Are Rethinking Reality Itself](https://scientiamag.org/is-spacetime-on-the-brink-why-physicists-are-rethinking-reality-itself/): The continuum threatens us with infinities! Do these infinities threaten our ability to extract predictions from these theories—or even our ability to formulate these theories in a precise way?”
- [Engineering the Duplicate: How Digital Twins Are Transforming Industries](https://scientiamag.org/engineering-the-duplicate-how-digital-twins-are-transforming-industries/): The concept has been used in manufacturing and industry to create virtual copies of machinery for testing quality control, optimization, and potential failures.
- [Historic Day: NASA launches Artemis II Mission with Crew Onboard](https://scientiamag.org/historic-day-nasa-launches-artemis-ii-mission-with-crew-onboard/): NASA spacecraft orbiting Earth after the spectacular Artemis II Moon mission launch.
- [From Sunlight to Salary: How Young People Are Turning Clean Energy into Livelihoods](https://scientiamag.org/from-sunlight-to-salary-how-young-people-are-turning-clean-energy-into-livelihoods/): Energy transition is one of the pressing issues of our era, and young people in this scenario are crucial stakeholders. Across bustling be cities and quiet villages, a quiet revolution is underway, and its spark comes not from fossil fuels, but from the sun, the wind, and young, innovative minds. 1 The region of Asia-Pacific is home to over 60 per cent of the world’s population, and about 60 per cent of the youth population. Like in every other region, young people are central to driving a just energy transition, as they are both major stakeholders in energy demand in […]
- [Dr Pervaiz Amir on the Role of Water in Pakistan's Agro-based Economy](https://scientiamag.org/dr-pervaiz-amir-on-the-role-of-water-in-pakistans-agro-based-economy/): Pakistan has 1046 km of coastal areas; we export crawlers and planted them there. That totally destroys the natural flora and fauna over there.
- [Growing Suicide Rate in Students: When a Bad Semester Starts to Feel Like a Ruined Life](https://scientiamag.org/growing-suicide-rate-in-students-when-a-bad-semester-starts-to-feel-like-a-ruined-life/): When a student starts to believe one bad week has ruined their whole life, the problem is bigger than grades.  
- [The Paradox of Free Will: Neuroscience and Psychology on Human Decision-Making](https://scientiamag.org/the-paradox-of-free-will-neuroscience-and-psychology-on-human-decision-making/): Before even starting to read this article, your mind would have made a couple of choices about the neuroscientific and psychological views of the topic. Free will is considered the capacity to choose among various options, to exercise control over one’s actions as a moral responsibility, and to be the originator of one’s own actions.  Many observed discoveries in psychology and neuroscience support disagreements about the illusion of free will. Benjamin Libet’s experiments demonstrated that the brain’s readiness potential precedes an individual’s conscious decision to act. It suggests that neural procedures may precede conscious intention.  According to Libet, there is […]
- [Building Prosperity: How Financial Education is Empowering Women Across Pakistan](https://scientiamag.org/building-prosperity-how-financial-education-is-empowering-women-across-pakistan/): International Women's Day 2026 theme is 'Give To Gain'. And the simple rule is: When we give, we gain. Together, let's help forge gender equality through abundant giving. It's time to shift from saving cash or gold to investing in mutual funds and having complete ownership of your assets.
- [How Clean Energy Access Can Alleviate Household Depression](https://scientiamag.org/how-clean-energy-access-can-alleviate-household-depression/): Clean energy changes how a home feels. It brings consistency, comfort, and a sense of safety, small things that allow tired minds to rest and emotional balance to slowly rebuild Mental health is often discussed in clinical terms, such as therapy, medication, and individual resilience. Yet a growing body of interdisciplinary research suggests that mental well-being is profoundly shaped by infrastructure, particularly by access to stable, affordable, and clean energy. For millions of households worldwide, energy insecurity is not simply an economic challenge; it is a persistent psychological stressor that can contribute to anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and depression within the […]
- [Green is the New Gold: A Gen-Z Guide to Renewable Investing](https://scientiamag.org/green-is-the-new-gold-a-gen-z-guide-to-renewable-investing/): Clean energy doesn’t just revolve around saving the planet anymore; it has now clawed its way into shaping the global economy. For Gen Z, investment in renewables isn’t solely a powerful, long-term financial stroke but also a measure to remain true to their principles and values when it comes to protecting the environment. As the global sustainability market blooms, affluent corporations are scurrying to invest in the trillion-dollar clean energy industry. But the big question remains- Are Gen Z investors aware of their options to make their lion’s share in the rapid commercialisation of the green market? As the energy […]
- [Pakistan's Solar Boom: When Clean Energy Breaks the System](https://scientiamag.org/pakistans-solar-boom-when-clean-energy-breaks-the-system/): Pakistan imported 22 gigawatts of solar panels in 2024. That is more than what Canada or the United Kingdom installed in five years combined. Rooftop solar systems are spreading across the country at a remarkable speed. Households are generating their own electricity. The technology works perfectly. On paper, this looks like one of the great energy success stories of the developing world. Yet the country’s circular debt hit PKR 3 trillion, growing by PKR 66 billion every single month. That is $235 million bleeding out every 30 days. Electricity prices keep rising for people who cannot afford solar panels. National […]
- [Global Energy Markets Power Up with LDES, Emerges as the Backbone of Renewable Revolution](https://scientiamag.org/global-energy-markets-power-up-with-ldes-emerges-as-the-backbone-of-renewable-revolution/): Long-Duration Energy Storage or LDES is rapidly moving out of the labs and into real-world deployments, capturing the attention of governments, tech giants, utilities, and energy markets worldwide. Once a niche concept, LDES is now being touted as the missing link in the transition to 100% clean energy.  What is LDES, and why does it matter now? Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES) encompasses the technologies designed to store vast amounts of energy and release it over extended periods, often 8, 12, or even several days, rather than the few hours typical of conventional batteries. LDES takes various forms of energy, […]
- [The Role of Finance in the Clean Energy Shift: An Interview with Muhammad Ali Qamar](https://scientiamag.org/the-role-of-finance-in-the-clean-energy-shift-an-interview-with-muhammad-ali-qamar/): The relation between renewable energy systems and financial markets has become more critical than ever, as the global energy landscape undergoes a profound transformation. Today, investment decisions are no longer driven solely by technological feasibility but by robust economic modelling, data transparency, and policy certainty. For countries navigating energy transitions at different stages of development, understanding how markets price risk, opportunity, and sustainability is central to achieving long-term energy security and climate resilience. In this edition of Scientia, we discover these dynamics with Muhammad Ali Qamar, a doctoral researcher whose work sits at the intersection of energy systems engineering, techno-economic […]
- [The AI Nuclear Renaissance: How Diablo Canyon Became the Backbone of California's Power Boom](https://scientiamag.org/the-ai-nuclear-renaissance-how-diablo-canyon-became-the-backbone-of-californias-power-boom/): I have lived in San Luis Obispo for over a decade, about 40 km from Diablo Canyon, California’s last operational nuclear power plant. I also work in machine learning and artificial intelligence.  This combination makes Diablo Canyon feel less like an abstract policy debate and more like a high-stakes reality unfolding in my own backyard. Under a 2016 agreement, the Diablo nuclear plant was scheduled to shut down completely by 2025. It was deemed too expensive and too harmful to marine life. Then, California did one of the most significant policy U-turns of recent times. Diablo went from a facility […]
- [AI and Machines: There is No such thing as Conscious Artificial Intelligence!](https://scientiamag.org/ai-and-machines-there-is-no-such-thing-as-conscious-artificial-intelligence/): “There is no such thing as conscious artificial intelligence”! It was stated in a study published in Nature in October 2025. The authors Anderzj Porebski and Jakub Figura further argued that the association between consciousness and the computer algorithms used today (primarily large language models, LLMs) and those that would be invented in the foreseeable future is deeply flawed. We believe that these flawed associations arise from a lack of technical knowledge and the way several new technologies (especially LLMs) work, which can create the illusion of consciousness. The modern world attributes considerable credit to Artificial Intelligence (AI) for transforming lives, […]
- [Scientists Find a Natural SPF with UV-Protective Bacteria in Thailand’s Hot Springs](https://scientiamag.org/scientists-find-a-natural-spf-with-uv-protective-bacteria/): At the western Thailand’s Bo Khlueng hot spring, water temperatures rise close to 70 °C while sunlight reaches the surface with little attenuation. Heat and ultraviolet (UV) radiation are each stressful on their own; together, they create an environment that is hostile to most life. However, some microorganisms survive in these environments through biochemical adaptations that have evolved over long timescales.  Gloeocapsa species BRSZ, a thermophilic cyanobacterium, is one such organism currently attracting scientific interest to produce an unidentified UV-absorbing compound. The finding is noteworthy as it advances our understanding of microbial survival in harsh conditions. It also guides us […]
- [The Modern Alchemy at CERN: Turning Lead into Gold is Possible Now!](https://scientiamag.org/the-modern-alchemy-at-cern-turning-lead-into-gold-is-possible-now/): For centuries, alchemists from ancient China, India, and Europe dreamed of transforming base metals like lead into precious gold. This long-standing quest, known as Chrysopoeia. They believed in a mysterious substance called the “philosopher’s stone” that could unlock this secret. While their dreams never came true, modern science has finally achieved what they could only imagine, thanks to the incredible work of scientists at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in Switzerland. A Medieval Dream Realized – Through Science This isn’t magic. It’s the realization of an ancient alchemist’s dream through modern nuclear physics. In the 20th century, we learned that […]
- [Adélie Penguin Weird Behaviors from Climate Change](https://scientiamag.org/adelie-penguin-weird-behaviors-from-climate-change/): Clips of an Adélie penguin, often refered “Nihist Penguin” from a video, are gaining significant traction online. Filmmaker Werner Herzog took to Instagram to share the context behind a scene from his 2007 documentary, “Encounters at the End of the World”. This particular scene has reemerged as the popular “lonely penguin“ or “nihilist penguin“ meme circulating widely across social media. Herzog offered insights into how the scene was captured and why it continues to resonate with audiences. The viral trend centers on an image of a penguin wandering away from its colony towards Antarctica‘s desolate interior. Users have widely shared this clip […]
- [Gul Plaza Fire- Key Takeaways for Building Fires and Safety](https://scientiamag.org/gul-plaza-fire-key-takeaways-for-building-fires-and-safety/): On the night of January 17, 2026, a devastating fire engulfed Gul Plaza shopping center in Karachi. The blaze spread with terrifying speed, ultimately claiming 63 lives and leaving a scar on the city. This tragedy, like many before it, underscores a critical reality: fires in buildings pose a severe threat that can escalate rapidly. This incident is a tragic case study in rapid-fire spread. The fire, which started in a single shop, quickly consumed the multi-story complex. According to local media, much of the structure has collapsed, and what remains may have to be demolished due to severe structural […]
- [Stopping Cancer Before It Starts: A Cellular and Preventive Perspective](https://scientiamag.org/stopping-cancer-before-it-starts/): “Sorry, it’s too late. It has spread.” Those words resonate far beyond a medical report; they carry the weight of grief, regret, and the quiet horror of time lost. Cancer is rarely sudden. It develops silently over the years, often without symptoms, until it reaches advanced stages. Every day a disease remains undiagnosed, every symptom dismissed, every reassurance that delays testing increases the likelihood that treatment may no longer be effective. You hold their hand, wishing for a miracle, but sometimes the opportunity for intervention has already passed. The hardest question is not why, but what if it had been […]
- [JWST observed dozens of Little Red Dots that may be Black holes in early Universe](https://scientiamag.org/jwst-observed-dozens-of-little-red-dots/): The researchers suggest that "If these LRDs were made up of stars, they would be the densest galaxies in the universe."
- [From Nobel Prize to Sugary Drinks: A 2025 Science Wrap on Health](https://scientiamag.org/top-science-discoveries-in-2025-in-health-and-medicine/): When we think of a year wrap, we often think of Spotify Wrap, or maybe, if you’re more niche, LinkedIn or Duolingo wraps. In Science Discoveries 2025, however, the wrap looks very different. Here, we give you our top 3 research wraps. From the immunology discovery that won the researchers a Nobel Prize, to stopping cancer in its tracks, to the drastic rise of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases because of sugary drinks. The Immunology Discovery that Won the 2025 Nobel Prize! The word “immunology” may bring up the instinct to skim the topic and move on to the next interesting […]
- [Scientia’s TOP Ten Stories of the Year 2025](https://scientiamag.org/scientias-top-ten-stories-of-the-year-2025/): The year 2025 was a defining year for Scientia Pakistan, as the magazine strengthened its role and continued serving as a trusted bridge between science and society. From laboratories and courtrooms to classrooms and climate frontlines, our stories focused on how science shapes everyday life in Pakistan and beyond. This year, we leaned harder into clear, engaging storytelling for professionals and young readers alike— without diluting scientific rigor. The result was a growing, more engaged community that didn’t just read science news but discussed, questioned, and shared it widely. Our Top Ten Stories of 2025 reflected the issues that mattered […]
- [2025 Scientific Triumph: Unifying the Laws of Physics through Mathematical Genius](https://scientiamag.org/2025-scientific-triumph-unifying-the-laws-of-physics-through-mathematical-genius/): In a breakthrough more than a century ago, researchers solved one of the legendary problems posed by mathematician David Hilbert in 1900. In 2025, Zaher Hani of the University of Michigan, along with his colleagues, resolved a challenge that not only revisits the foundations of mathematics but also unifies several key laws of physics. The problem—Hilbert’s sixth—called for deriving the laws that govern fluid motion from basic mathematical axioms. Hilbert believed that physics should rest on such first principles, but his vision remained unrealised for 125 years, until now. In March 2025, Yu Deng from the University of Chicago, with his […]
- [Imposter Syndrome Bruises the Confidence of Young Female Researchers](https://scientiamag.org/imposter-syndrome-bruises-the-confidence-of-young-female-researchers/): Young female scientists working in research centres and laboratories across the world are thinking outside the box and conducting groundbreaking research. Yet behind scientific progress lies a silent and unnoticed internal combat: a perpetual fear that their research is “not suitable” to be shared with the scientific community.  Have you ever sensed this? The pit in your stomach when your supervisor proposes that you present your research at a symposium. The numbness when you gawk at your manuscript draft rather than submitting it. The constant whispering of the inner voices, “your work is not enough.” You are not alone; many […]
- [Rape Cases in Pakistan: Behind Closed Doors, the Forensic Fight to Find the Truth](https://scientiamag.org/rape-cases-in-pakistan-behind-closed-doors-the-forensic-fight-to-find-the-truth/): On 20th July 2021, Noor Mukaddam, a 27-year-old resident of Sector F-7/4, Islamabad, an elite area, was brutally killed. Her death did not come out of the blue; she spent two days in captivity, torment, torture, and rape in the hands of Zahir Jaffer. Zahir Jaffer was no ordinary man, but a US national of Pakistani descent, the son of a wealthy industrialist family, someone who believed his privilege could protect him.[1] He held her at ransom when Noor turned down his proposal to get married. The CCTV footage further revealed that Noor was seen trying to escape twice, only […]
- [Educating for Tomorrow: The Impacts of Science Communication in Sustainability Awareness](https://scientiamag.org/educating-for-tomorrow-the-impacts-of-science-communication-in-sustainability-awareness/): The city of Sudbury, Ontario, faced severe environmental degradation due to a century of mining and smelting, resulting in 80,000 hectares of contaminated land. Sudbury is Canada’s largest mining community and was built on Atikameksheng Anishinaabek, known as the people of Whitefish Lake. The boundaries of their tiny reserve were deliberately drawn to exclude mineral-rich lands. Although over $1 trillion has been taken from the Sudbury region, the First Nation has received no compensation and no apology. Over more than 100 years of smelter operations, the major pollutants were sulphur dioxide, lead, nickel, cadmium, copper, arsenic, cobalt, and selenium. The […]
- [Think Twice: Understanding the Psychology of Irrational Decision-Making](https://scientiamag.org/think-twice-understanding-the-psychology-of-irrational-decision-making/): In 2017, the world was stunned to learn that Mike Tyson, one of the greatest boxers in history, had gone bankrupt despite earning over $400 million during his career. Tyson had all the fame, wealth, skill, and widespread respect. However, he prioritised short-term pleasures over long-term stability, spent impulsively, trusted the wrong people, and struggled to control his emotions. When the reporters asked him the reasons, Tyson was brutally honest: “I made emotional decisions.” Millions were left in shock. How could a man who was trained for discipline, strategy, and precision inside the ring turn out to be so indisciplined? […]
- [Humanity in Microgravity: How the ISS Is Transforming Medical Research](https://scientiamag.org/humanity-in-microgravity-how-the-iss-is-transforming-medical-research/): Space has always been a mirror. When we look it up, we search for it but discover more about ourselves. Orbiting 400 kilometers above Earth, the International Space Station (ISS) is not only a symbol of exploration. It is a laboratory where human biology is pushed beyond its design. In microgravity, bones begin to dissolve, muscles weaken, immunity becomes uncertain, and microbes adapt faster than we ever anticipated. [1–4] “Every time we push beyond the familiar, we discover something new about what it means to be human.” Thousands of kilometers above Earth, the International Space Station (ISS) orbits silently, a […]
- [Herds and Hurdles: New Research Highlights Looming Obstacles for Thar Desert Livestock](https://scientiamag.org/herds-and-hurdles-new-research-highlights-looming-obstacles-for-thar-desert-livestock/): Tharparkar, a district spanning 19,637 square kilometres, lies in Pakistan’s Sindh province. Tharparkar’s livestock population exceeds 6 million. But the region paints a picture of beauty and adversity, for beneath the alarming mortality figures lie deeper issues that hamper human existence in this geographically, culturally, and religiously diverse region.  The Thar desert is characterized mainly by marginal and diversified agriculture, reflecting the interaction of soil type, crop diversification, livestock grazing, crop management, and migration during lean periods for livestock feeding and off-farm work. Monsoon rains are the only wet period in the desert. Kharif cropping is the main option, fully […]
- [Palestine's Hope in Science: Insights from Neuroscientist Abdulrahman Abou Dahesh](https://scientiamag.org/palestines-hope-in-science-insights-from-neuroscientist-abdulrahman-abou-dahesh/): At the Lahore Science Mela 2025, the air buzzed with wonder and curiosity. Amid the incredible experiments and one of the most inspiring voices at the festival belonged to Abdulrahman Abou Dahesh, who stood out for his deeply personal mission. Despite Palestinian roots, his journey is a stirring testament to resilience, passion, and the power of science education as a force for good.  Abdulrahman is rewriting the narrative for young learners, using storytelling, immersive games, and vibrant characters. For him, neuroscience isn’t just a field of study; it is a bridge that links knowledge with empathy, helping children understand not […]
- [The Roots of Inequality: Understanding Gender Disparity in Pakistan's STEM Education](https://scientiamag.org/the-roots-of-inequality-understanding-gender-disparity-in-pakistans-stem-education/): It is widely acknowledged that in the twenty-first-century global information economy, STEM education is a vital component of innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development. Strong STEM skills throughout the populace enable nations to tackle difficult issues like public health emergencies and climate change, while also promoting competitive sectors and high-value job opportunities.[2] “For women and young girls, they’re expected to be a housewife, to mother a child, to take care of the husband and be in the kitchen,” said Rida Abbas, a second-year business economics and political science student from Pakistan. “People should have access to choose what’s right for […]
- [The Surprising Smarts of Sea Urchins: Nature's Tiny Brainiacs](https://scientiamag.org/the-surprising-smarts-of-sea-urchins-natures-tiny-brainiacs/): Imagine a creature you thought simple and spiky rocks roll in the shallow pool, or a fancy treat on your shushi plate. But new research has turned the idea that these prickly creatures are actually incredibly complex, possessing a brain everywhere. This stunning reality has revealed new research about sea urchins. It has made scientist question their brain and how they work. Sea urchins are more complex than we ever guessed, so do not let their looks fool you. Purple sea urchins (Paracentrotus lividus) begin life as tiny, swimming larvae. They undergo an incredible metamorphosis after maturity, transforming into the […]
- [Science, Leadership,  & Local Empowerment: An In-Depth Conversation with Hassun El-Zafar](https://scientiamag.org/science-leadership-local-empowerment-an-in-depth-conversation-with-hassun-el-zafar/): Hassun El-Zafar is the Chief Executive Officer of Edinburgh Science, leading one of the UK’s most influential science engagement organisations and managing its various local and international outreach programs. In 2024, he was recognised by Innovate UK for “his work on democratising access to museums and knowledge.” He carries a unique blend of creative leadership and community-centred vision. He has also developed several storytelling projects, including an installation called HEAR and a virtual reality experience, Mirpur: The Atlantis of Kashmir. We caught up with him before the Lahore Science Mela (LSM) to chat about his work and the landscape of […]
- [Marine Animals Die From Much Smaller Plastic Doses Than Previously Believed](https://scientiamag.org/marine-animals-die-from-much-smaller-plastic-doses-than-previously-believed/): The marine environment is no longer the ideal place for many aquatic animals. Most of the ocean water is a subtle mix of unwanted materials, including plastic. A recent study reveals that a minimal amount of plastic can prove fatal for marine life. For instance, less than three sugar cubes can be fatal to birds like Atlantic puffins. According to researcher Erin Murphy, an ocean plastic researcher at the Ocean Conservancy, this was already below the lowest threshold they expected The paper published by The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences saw researchers analyze necropsies from over 10,000 animals […]
- [The Largest and most detailed Radio Image of the Milky Way is just Revealed](https://scientiamag.org/the-largest-and-most-detailed-radio-image-of-the-milky-way-is-just-revealed/): According to research published in the Astronomical Society of Australia, in October 2025, a ribbon of red splotches interspersed with blue dots marks the largest, most detailed image of the Milky Way in radio wavelengths ever assembled. This new visible side of our fairly flat spiral galaxy, as seen from Earth’s southern hemisphere, will help astronomers find and classify objects within it and better understand ongoing processes, says astronomer Silvia Mantovanini of Curtin University in Perth, Australia. She briefed that the new image was captured during the search for supernova remnants, leftover bubbles of gas and dust from exploding stars. […]
- [A Legacy of Discovery: James Watson, Co-Architect of the DNA Double Helix, Passes at 97](https://scientiamag.org/a-legacy-of-discovery-james-watson-co-architect-of-the-dna-double-helix-passes-at-97/): James Watson, the co-discoverer of the double helix, the name every biology student has underlined at least once in a textbook, has passed away at the age of 97. In one of the greatest breakthroughs of the 20th Century, he identified the double-helix structure of DNA in 1953 alongside British scientist Francis Crick, setting the stage for rapid advances in molecular biology. Along with fellow researchers Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins, he won the 1962 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for the discovery of DNA’s double helix shape. James D. Watson was born on April 6, 1928, in the […]
- [Crime Scene Investigation, Clickbait, and Screens: How Media Reshapes Forensic Reality](https://scientiamag.org/crime-scene-investigation-clickbait-and-screens-how-media-reshapes-forensic-reality/): Cameras flash. The courtroom is more of a film set than a court of justice for a crime turned spectacle. Millions of people observe it through their phones and break down every look, every inhalation, and every tear. TikTok is swarmed with videos marked as evidence. YouTube gurus pass their judgment each day, way before the jury. It is streamed, clipped, and hashtagged. From the trial of Johnny Depp-Amber Heard to Making a Murderer, courtroom drama has become entertainment all over the world, and somewhere in between crime, clicks, and courtrooms, truth begins to lose definition. Everyone’s a detective now. […]
- [Lights, Camera… Forensic Science: Scientia Welcomes Dr Umair Haroon to its Advisory Board](https://scientiamag.org/lights-camera-forensic-science-scientia-welcomes-dr-umair-haroon-to-its-advisory-board/): In an era where science shapes every aspect of our lives—from the technology we use to the health decisions we make—hearing directly from those advancing and communicating scientific knowledge has never been more crucial. Recently, Scientia Pakistan had a brief conversation with Dr Umair Haroon, a forensic scientist, producer, director, and elected member of the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (IATAS), the organization responsible for the International Emmy Awards. Dr Umair Haroon is known for launching Pakistan’s first forensic science-based investigative TV series. He recently joined Scientia Pakistan as its Advisory Board member; with his diverse background, we […]
- [Flood Prevention Revolution: Harnessing Karez and Advanced Bio-Ecological Drainage for a Safer Future](https://scientiamag.org/flood-prevention-revolution-harnessing-karez-and-advanced-bio-ecological-drainage-for-a-safer-future/): A report published in Reuters showed that it was the thought-provoking testimony from 2025 flood survivors in Northern Pakistan. What began as seasonal rain resulted in a catastrophic environmental disaster. Climate change is projected to increase flood risks two to five times by 2050. Pakistan stands at the forefront of climate-hit countries, and its socio-economic and geographic conditions make it particularly vulnerable to flooding. The recent flood disasters in 2022 and 2025 are the harsh foreshadowing of the new normal. Conventional flood management approaches include constructing dams, effective drainage systems, and levees. Such interventions are linked with ecosystem disruption and […]
- [Reflections on Attending the Science Journalism Forum 2025: A Hybrid Gathering of Ideas and Innovation](https://scientiamag.org/reflections-on-attending-the-science-journalism-forum-2025-a-hybrid-gathering-of-ideas-and-innovation/): From October 27 to 30, 2025, our team attended the Science Journalism Forum (SJF) — a global hybrid event held at the Dubai Knowledge Park Conference Centre/Audi­torium, United Arab Emirates. The forum gathered hundreds of science journalists, communicators, researchers, and media professionals to discuss the evolving landscape of science reporting in a rapidly changing world. Hosted in a hybrid format, SJF 2025 offered participants across continents the opportunity to join interactive sessions, keynote talks, and workshops both online and in person. This inclusivity not only expanded participation but also reinforced the importance of global collaboration in strengthening science communication. Throughout […]
- [Reviewing "JANE" — When Science Meets Empathy and Courage](https://scientiamag.org/reviewing-jane-when-science-meets-empathy-and-courage/): Jane (2017), directed by Brett Morgen and produced by National Geographic, is a thought-provoking documentary that celebrates the life and legacy of Jane Goodall, the English primatologist, ethologist, conservationist, and humanitarian who forever changed our understanding of chimpanzees. Born on April 3rd, 1934, Jane Goodall’s life is a story of determination, curiosity, and a deep love for nature. It is captured by the film in beautiful shots that may evoke nostalgia.  The documentary opens with a stunning montage of the flora and fauna of Gombe, Tanzania, which became Jane’s home for the next sixty years. At just twenty-six years old, […]
- [Lahore Science Mela 2025— The Ocean of Knowledge](https://scientiamag.org/lahore-science-mela-2025-the-ocean-of-knowledge/): “What we know is a drop, what we don’t know is an ocean.” You could sense the ocean the minute you crossed the gates of Crescent Model Higher Secondary School, Shadman in Lahore. There was an air of excitement at the Lahore Science Mela; children with curiosity in their minds, parents with their cameras, and volunteers running here and there among the colorful stalls were all united by the same factor: “curiosity”. Khwarizmi Science Society (KSS) transformed this school into a land of exploration on 25-26 October 2025. Out of smoldering chemical combinations to robots on command, from fossils that […]
- [Sudden Goodbyes: The Alarming Truth About Cardiac Arrest's Hidden Dangers](https://scientiamag.org/sudden-goodbyes-the-alarming-truth-about-cardiac-arrests-hidden-dangers/): It was a hot and humid evening on June 30, 2025, when a 36-year-old teacher named Niaz Ahmed died of a sudden cardiac arrest while giving a lecture during a professional training session at Crescent Model Higher Secondary School in Lahore, Pakistan. A video of the tragic incident, which showed him collapsing unexpectedly, quickly went viral on social media. Across the border, India was also awakened to equally shocking news in the same month, when actress and model Shefali Jariwala, a prominent figure in Indian pop culture, died at just 42. There were no known heart conditions or prior symptoms; […]
- [Antibiotics in Chicken Farming: A Recipe for Disaster in the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance](https://scientiamag.org/antibiotics-in-chicken-farming-a-recipe-for-disaster-in-the-fight-against-antimicrobial-resistance/): Imagine sitting at your favorite restaurant, your food served, and taking a bite of a crispy, fried chicken piece. Hot, juicy, and delicious. You don’t question it; you shouldn’t. But suppose that every piece of chicken had something more than spices and protein attached to it. What if it had residues of antibiotics, untouched and unaffected by cooking? What if that meal progressively caused you to become resistant to life-saving drugs? This is the untold story of how antibiotics have changed the way we grow chickens, and how, if we don’t act now, they could transform the future of medicine […]
- [Adapting to Space: How Microgravity Impacts Astronauts' Musculoskeletal Health](https://scientiamag.org/adapting-to-space-how-microgravity-impacts-astronauts-musculoskeletal-health/): Often, when we think of astronauts in space, we picture them floating around gracefully (much like ballet dancers but in slow motion) across the never-ending emptiness of space, marveling at the unworldly views of the orbiting planets and the glamorous galaxies. We imagine weightlessness, bodies gliding with ease and Freedom. However, behind that elegance is a hidden cost, and a quite hefty one; the very absence of gravity or microgravity imposes an extremely harsh toll on the human body.  How do Bones and Muscles Function under Normal Conditions?  Quite like many specialized cells in the body, bones and muscles are […]
- [Placebo Effect, Your Mind's Secret Weapon for Wellness](https://scientiamag.org/placebo-effect-your-minds-secret-weapon-for-wellness/): What if fake surgeries or sugar pills could work on our bodies like authentic medicines? Some might think it’s not possible that a fake medicine or treatment could heal us. Rationally, it doesn’t make sense; however, nature does not always make sense to us; it has no obligation on her part. Part of that same reality is the Placebo effect. An effect that is usually publicly dismissed as a mere psychological show, having no basis in the physiology of human beings. To put it in simple words, Placebo is the effect when improvement, regarding physiological condition and symptoms, is observed […]
- [Sindh's Flood Crisis: A Stark Reminder of Indus Delta's Vulnerabilities as Experts Forewarned](https://scientiamag.org/sindhs-flood-crisis-a-stark-reminder-of-indus-deltas-vulnerabilities-as-experts-forewarned/): It was a warm and humid evening in August when Rasadullah, an aging fisherman, dragged his weather-beaten net across the muddy shoreline. The sea breeze that once promised abundance now carries only silence and devastation. He has been trying to catch fish since dawn, but his nets were still empty. This has been happening for years; he merely catches a few fish that his family eats at night. There’s no more hope for his profession, and he was nearly giving up… Rasadullah lives with his family in Mubarak Goth in Kimari Town, Karachi. Mubarak Goth is a fishing village once […]
- [IEI Pakistan Reshaping the Educational Landscape in Remote North](https://scientiamag.org/iei-pakistan-reshaping-the-educational-landscape-in-remote-north/): A 23-hour drive, narrow roads, and mountains on every side. This is what separated Hunza and me at the start of my journey. This journey was neither for amusement nor a vacation, but rather to be part of an effort led by IEI Pakistan, an organization inspiring the youth and people in the North.  Innovate Educate & Inspire Pakistan, or IEI Pakistan, began as a travel-based, voluntary, in-residence teaching program. A pioneer in this field in Pakistan, providing people with an opportunity to teach and support public education in the North. Now, a registered non-profit organization, IEI focuses on improving […]
- [Sustainability in Astronomy — A conversation with Dr Leonard Burtscher from “Astronomers for Planet Earth”](https://scientiamag.org/sustainability-in-astronomy-a-conversation-with-dr-leonard-burtscher-from-astronomers-for-planet-earth/): Astronomy, for many centuries, has educated us about the wonders of the cosmos. From the first discovery of a supernova in Cassiopeia (a constellation) by Tycho Brahe to today’s powerful telescopes, such as the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) or the James Webb, humanity has made significant technological advancements within the realm of Astronomy. As this discipline has evolved into a global multi-billion-dollar industry, questions have emerged about how to sustain excellent research while considering its environmental impact. Climate change is the most pressing issue humanity faces today, and it is the responsibility of the residents of this only known living […]
- [Space for All: Can Developing Countries Compete in the New Space Habitat Era?](https://scientiamag.org/space-for-all-can-developing-countries-compete-in-the-new-space-habitat-era/): When we picture humanity’s future among the stars, the images are often bold and familiar: astronauts treading across the rusty plains of Mars, glittering domes rising on the Moon, or massive spacecraft funded by space giants like NASA, ESA, or CNSA. These visions spark awe and excitement, but they also tend to leave much of the world out of the frame. For many developing countries, the story is very different, where daily life can mean coping with rolling blackouts, navigating fragile healthcare systems, or struggling through gaps in education. In such places, the dream of space colonization often feels impossibly […]
- [COVID-19 Vaccine and Heart Health: Separating Facts from Misinformation](https://scientiamag.org/covid-19-vaccine-and-heart-health-separating-facts-from-misinformation/): “Globally, no study has shown an increase in heart disease or sudden deaths among COVID-19 vaccinated individuals,” as quoted by Professor Dr Nadeem Rizvi, a senior cardiologist, talking with a Samaa news representative [1]. This statement came in light of rising concerns and misinformation on social media following the tragic, sudden death of Niaz Ahmad, a 36-year-old teacher in Lahore in early July 2025. Dr Steven Gundry presented a non-peer-reviewed abstract in November 2021 at a medical conference, claiming that mRNA vaccines could “dramatically increase” endothelial inflammation, potentially raising the risk of future heart attacks [1]. Though the study lacked […]
- [Incandescent Concrete Jungle: A Looming Threat to Public Safety in Karachi](https://scientiamag.org/incandescent-concrete-jungle-a-looming-threat-to-public-safety-in-karachi/): It’s 8 PM on a hot and still June night in Karachi. Sweat trickles down your forehead as the fan does little more than shoot jets of hot air at you. You step outside your apartment expecting a cool breeze – instead, the air hits you like a blow dryer. The sun has long set below the horizon, but its presence lingers in the heat radiating from every surface. Everything around you is scorching hot. A cyclist wipes his forehead at a traffic signal, and a nearby shopkeeper fans himself with a newspaper. Frustrated, you call your cousin back in […]
- [In Loving Memory of Jane Goodall: The Hero Who Changed Our View of Nature](https://scientiamag.org/in-loving-memory-of-jane-goodall-the-hero-who-changed-our-view-of-nature/): Jane Goodall, the famed primatologist, anthropologist, and conservationist, has passed away, according to the institute she founded. She was 91 years old. Goodall died of natural causes while in California on a speaking tour of the United States, the institute said in a statement on social media on Wednesday. The British primatologist’s discoveries as an ethologist revolutionized science, and she was a tireless advocate for the protection and restoration of our natural world. At the age of 26, Goodall first traveled to Tanzania and began her research on chimpanzees in the wild forests. Her extensive research on species has demonstrated that […]
- [Grassroots Power in Crisis: Lessons from Climate Forward Pakistan’s Disaster Response](https://scientiamag.org/grassroots-power-in-crisis-lessons-from-climate-forward-pakistans-disaster-response/): I will never forget the summer of 2022. That was when the Kabul River rose and swallowed my hometown, Charsadda. Even now, it feels like it happened just yesterday. I remember the water rushing in with a force no one could stop. Within hours, the flood tore through our streets, our fields, and our homes. Schools, houses, everything disappeared under thick, muddy water. Families climbed onto rooftops, waving helplessly as their belongings and memories were washed away. What I saw still haunts me: friends and relatives standing in shock, children shivering and crying from hunger, mothers holding their babies under […]
- [Cosmic Breakthrough: JWST Identifies Mysterious New Class of Black Hole Stars!](https://scientiamag.org/cosmic-breakthrough-jwst-identifies-mysterious-new-class-of-black-hole-stars/): Astronomers may have finally found a clue to explain the strange “little red dots” that the James Webb Space Telescope spotted in 2022. The newly discovered object, nicknamed the Cliff, hints that these dots could be something entirely new in the universe — “a black hole star.” This happens when a black hole feeds so quickly that the gas around it lights up, making it look like a glowing star. Before this, scientists thought the red dots might be huge early galaxies or supermassive black holes actively consuming matter. Scientists are still debating what the mysterious “little red dots” really […]
- [Harvest at Risk: The Alarming Impact of Climate Change on Wheat Production in Sind](https://scientiamag.org/harvest-at-risk-the-alarming-impact-of-climate-change-on-wheat-production-in-sind/): Once called the “grain basket of the region,” Sindh now stands at a crossroads. The Indus River, which carved life into this desert province, is under threat; not from war or politics, but from climate change. Extreme heatwaves, erratic rainfall, and worsening water scarcity have turned once-fertile fields into barren soil. In just the past five years, wheat production in Sindh has declined significantly (due to various reasons, including climate change), posing a challenge not only to the livelihoods of farmers but to national food security. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, wheat yield per hectare in Sindh dropped […]
- [Tiny Giants: Bizarre and Mind-Blowing Tales from the Land of Ants!](https://scientiamag.org/tiny-giants-bizarre-and-mind-blowing-tales-from-the-land-of-ants/): “Oh no!” I jumped towards the bag of chocolates, which now had a parade of dots moving out in perfect congregation. I squinted to look closer, Ants. Somehow, these insects had so thoroughly and seamlessly integrated themselves into homes, hotels, pavement cracks, and construction sites. One can think of any place, particularly in Pakistan, and know with an awkward sense of comfort that their one and only friend, the ants, will be ever-present. With there being over 16,000 identified species of ants, there’s no shortage of these pesky pests. However, as prevalent as they are, very few of us have […]
- [“Seena Roshan Ho”: Lahore Science Mela Inspires a New Generation of Innovators!](https://scientiamag.org/seena-roshan-ho-lahore-science-mela-inspires-a-new-generation-of-innovators/): In Pakistani society, daily life is a relentless 24/7 grind, leaving little room for creativity or the pursuit of solutions to pressing issues through scientific understanding. From overwhelming disasters to critical challenges like water and food scarcity, as well as ineffective waste management, these problems are often viewed as solely the government’s responsibility. Consequently, children growing up in this environment often develop a lack of interest in practical science and hands-on work, becoming preoccupied with rote memorization of textbooks and theories. Many are conditioned to believe that earning a medical or engineering degree is the only pathway to a stable […]
- [Beyond Relief: The Missing Link In Pakistan’s Disaster Recovery Process—Physical Therapy](https://scientiamag.org/beyond-relief-the-missing-link-in-pakistans-disaster-recovery-process-physical-therapy/): Almost everyone is aware of the toll disasters take on the citizens of Pakistan, especially during the monsoon season. But what most people aren’t aware of is an important stage of the recovery process—rehabilitation. Before starting the “recovery” process, understanding what truly happens when a disaster strikes is crucial. As soon as the disaster occurs, alerts and warnings are issued nationwide. With the mission to rescue affected people and to save their lives, emergency response teams are immediately sent to the impacted areas. Despite the efforts, many lives are lost during this time, properties and facilities may be destroyed, and […]
- [Karachi's First Science Writing Workshop Set to Transform Public Understanding of Science](https://scientiamag.org/karachis-first-science-writing-workshop-set-to-transform-public-understanding-of-science/): Karachi: Scientia Pakistan successfully organized the 1st Science Writing Workshop in Karachi on September 12-13 at Habib University. The event was generously sponsored by the Association for Computing Machinery – Women (ACM-W) as part of their “Celebrating Women in Computing” initiative. ACM is the world’s largest educational and scientific computing society, uniting computing professionals, educators, and researchers to share knowledge, advance the field of computing, and promote ethical standards. Scientia is a leading science magazine in Pakistan that spotlights young science writers and communicators. Since February 2019, it has been publishing monthly and bi-monthly editions focused on various specific science […]
- [Training Tomorrow's Lifesavers: Why Schools Should Lead in Disaster Preparedness](https://scientiamag.org/training-tomorrows-lifesavers-why-schools-should-lead-in-disaster-preparedness/): Every school day starts with a bell. But what if, one day, it’s the fire alarm instead? Disasters are unpredictable, but their impact doesn’t have to be. While schools across the world teach young minds about atoms and algebra, many still neglect something far more urgent: how to survive a disaster?. In 2023, the World Bank reported that over 875 million school-aged children live in areas at high risk of natural disasters. Yet, the majority of educational institutions fail to produce a well-equipped disaster response. This isn’t just an oversight; it is a life-threatening gap. Disaster response education and training […]
- [Against All Odds: HPV Vaccination Rollout Begins in Flood-Affected Regions Despite Societal Pushback](https://scientiamag.org/against-all-odds-hpv-vaccination-rollout-begins-in-flood-affected-regions-despite-societal-pushback/): In Pakistan, an HPV vaccination campaign targeting girls aged 9–14 years is being held from September 15 to 27, 2025, across Punjab, Sindh, AJK, and Islamabad. This campaign is part of the government’s initiative, supported by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, the Global Vaccine Alliance (GAVI), to introduce the HPV vaccine and prevent cervical cancer.  Although the vaccination of 2.5 million out-of-school girls after the floods and rains, especially in remote areas and marginalised communities, could be challenging for the health teams. This nation-wide vaccination drive is part of larger global strategy for elimination of cervical cancer and Pakistan is […]
- [From Dry Bed to Flowing Waters: The Ecological Renaissance of the Ravi River in Punjab](https://scientiamag.org/from-dry-bed-to-flowing-waters-the-ecological-renaissance-of-the-ravi-river-in-punjab/): In August 2025, the Ravi River flooded Lahore after several decades of minimal activity. This event not only caused widespread inundation but also highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the river to the city. For many residents, the flood served as a reminder of Lahore’s longstanding relationship with the Ravi River. One of the five rivers for which Punjab was named of the Ravi River, which flows from northwest India to northeast Pakistan, flows from the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, India, passing Chamba, turning to Jammu & Kashmir, and then entering Pakistan. It flows 50 miles before entering the […]
- [Breaking the Cycle: Community Resilience is Key to Addressing Pakistan's Ongoing Flood Crises](https://scientiamag.org/breaking-the-cycle-community-resilience-is-key-to-addressing-pakistans-ongoing-flood-crises/): Natural Disasters do not wait for permission. I have watched floodwaters turn green fields to muddy wastelands overnight. I have felt the ground shake beneath my feet during earthquakes.  I have heard of landslides burying whole villages and valleys being washed away by flash floods. I have seen the news of the wildfire that reduces green forests to ashes. I have heard of droughts that have starved whole populations for months. I have experienced the panic of a pandemic that converts busy streets into empty ones. And I have personally experienced an unimaginable loss.  I still remember being eight years […]
- [Can Your Brain Really Grow New Cells? Exploring the Hype and Hope of Neuroplasticity](https://scientiamag.org/can-your-brain-really-grow-new-cells-exploring-the-hype-and-hope-of-neuroplasticity/): For more than a century, that belief reigned over the field of neuroscience like gospel. Neurons, the core units of thinking, feeling, connecting, remembering, and coordinating, were considered one-time miracles. Born in the womb, matured in youth, and then fated to fade without replacement. While all other cells of the body had replication power to some extent, some more than others. Even the Kidney and liver had their own replication ability to some extent, the neurons were rendered undividable.  And yet, deep inside the hippocampus of an adult brain, a spark refused to go out. In July 2025, a team […]
- [Bugs in Your Bites: How Insects Sneak into Food Packages and What You Can Do](https://scientiamag.org/bugs-in-your-bites-how-insects-sneak-into-food-packages-and-what-you-can-do/): A week after buying a bag of rice from a trusted store, I opened it only to find tiny insects crawling through the grains. The bag was properly closed, stored in a clean, dry place, and there were no signs of pests anywhere else in my kitchen. Yet somehow, an infestation appeared out of nowhere! I remembered a thought I’d once had, and I’m sure it has crossed many people’s minds at some point: Do insects in stored grains really come from nowhere? Could they just form inside the food on their own?! Finding insects in stored grains isn’t a […]
- [The Time is Now: Urgent Need for a Bold Call to Action for Universal Health Coverage in Pakistan](https://scientiamag.org/the-time-is-now-urgent-need-for-a-bold-call-to-action-for-universal-health-coverage-in-pakistan/): It was a sunny July afternoon when Sameer, a 45-year-old resident of Swat, rushed his mother to a nearby private hospital because her chest pain was becoming unbearable. However, the hospital quoted treatment costs that were two-thirds of Sameer’s monthly income. Overwhelmed by his mother’s falling health, he took his mother to a public hospital, where the area was already overcrowded. He stood in line with his head bowed down, grappling with unspeakable feelings as he waited for his turn to obtain an emergency slip. After a few moments, he was handed a list of necessary investigations and medications, which […]
- [Interactive Learning: Board Games Leading the Charge in Disaster Risk Reduction](https://scientiamag.org/interactive-learning-board-games-leading-the-charge-in-disaster-risk-reduction/): Pakistan’s education system relies on traditional teaching methods, where students memorize textbooks to pass exams. This approach is common in schools across urban and rural areas, focusing on grades rather than building practical skills like problem-solving and teamwork. For Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) education, which is vital in a country prone to floods, earthquakes, and other disasters, this method falls short. One effective way to integrate DRR into the curriculum is through interactive games and simulations. These tools can help students to understand complex concepts, such as flood risk management and earthquake preparedness, engaging them in experimentation. By incorporating games […]
- [Reviewing 'The Business of Disaster': A Critical Look at the Human Toll of Disaster Capitalism](https://scientiamag.org/reviewing-the-business-of-disaster-a-critical-look-at-the-human-toll-of-disaster-capitalism/): In 2012, Superstorm Sandy ravaged the U.S. East Coast, leaving devastation in its wake. But what followed was more revealing than the storm itself, a slow, painful unravelling of a system meant to help but rigged to profit. The Business of Disaster, a powerful investigative documentary by FRONTLINE and NPR, investigates the hidden truth of disaster capitalism in America under the guise of disaster management, showing how private companies, insurance firms, and government agencies turned tragedy into a business opportunity. President Barack Obama[The Then] himself visited Staten Island, affected by the flood, which raised the hopes of a lot of […]
- [Navigating Crisis: Dr Mujtaba Hassan on Space Technology’s Role in Disaster Management](https://scientiamag.org/navigating-crisis-dr-mujtaba-hassan-on-space-technologys-role-in-disaster-management/): Hundreds died, a rescue helicopter crashed, villages submerged, families torn apart, weddings turned to funerals. These are news headlines you must have heard. But have you thought about why this all happened? We ignored nature warnings for so long, and now Pakistan is facing a climate-driven disaster. From North to South, a surge in natural disasters has been experienced. Cloud bursts, flash floods, and landslides accompanied this season’s relentless monsoon rains. The scale of human suffering is staggering. Communities left to grapple with loss and livelihoods erased in moments. The overwhelming infrastructure in cities like Karachi and Rawalpindi could not […]
- [Healthcare Under Pressure: Are we Ready for the Next Big Disaster?](https://scientiamag.org/healthcare-under-pressure-are-we-ready-for-the-next-big-disaster/): As fate would have it, and pretty much like every other country in the world, Pakistan has been having its fair share of disasters since its inception. From insidiously developing epidemics to sweeping floods and devastating earthquakes, we have had it all. And whenever such calamities ensue, human life is affected, resulting in profound misery, which is both short-term and perpetual in consequences. As a Physician who has worked on the ground in different disaster responses in Punjab, I will reflect upon my experiences in the Govt healthcare sector and shed light on the four cornerstones for disaster management, namely […]
- [Scientia Pakistan Takes the Lead: Official Media Partner of the Science Journalism Forum 2025!](https://scientiamag.org/scientia-pakistan-takes-the-lead-official-media-partner-of-the-science-journalism-forum-2025/): We are thrilled to announce that Scientia Pakistan is a Media Partner of this year’s highly anticipated Science Journalism Forum 2025 (SJF25), going hybrid in Dubai. We have been serving as a community partner of the event for three consecutive years, and now, we are super excited to join forces to be a Media partner in SJF25. See you from October 27 to 30 in the UAE or virtually! What is the Science Journalism Forum? Think science journalism is just for scientists? Think again! The Science Journalism Forum 2025 (SJF25), the most diverse event in Science journalism, is opening its […]
- [Flooded Again: The Science and Policy Missteps Plaguing Resilience in Swat](https://scientiamag.org/flooded-again-the-science-and-policy-missteps-plaguing-resilience-in-swat/): In the quiet hush of early morning, Zahir, a shopkeeper in Mingora, Swat, stood at a distance, staring helplessly at his shop. Water rose above the roof. Bilal, a boy who watched the same river swallow his home three years ago, stood nearby. Now, the rains of 2025 have drowned Swat again, and the two are left picking up the pieces of their lives for the third time in fifteen years. This Cycle of Devastation had begun in 2010, devastating floods claimed almost 2,000 lives across the country, with around 95 deaths in Swat itself. Bridges, fields, and villages disappeared overnight. More […]
- [Teen’s AI Model Cracks NASA’s NEOWISE Toughest Dataset in Microseconds](https://scientiamag.org/teens-ai-model-cracks-nasas-neowise-toughest-dataset-in-microseconds/): When NASA launched its infrared space telescope NEOWISE (Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer), few imagined that a teenager, more than a decade later, would be the one to unlock some of its most elusive secrets. Among the classrooms of Pasadena High School, California, Matteo (Matthew) Paz was known as a stargazer, but not in the poetic sense. Like many budding astronomers, he was fascinated by the night sky. Through a summer internship, he got a glimpse of the real data used by space scientists and realized just how messy it can be. During his research internship at Caltech’s Infrared Processing […]
- [Blood Doesn’t Lie: How DNA and Serology Are Transforming the Legal Systems Worldwide](https://scientiamag.org/blood-doesnt-lie-how-dna-and-serology-are-transforming-the-legal-systems-worldwide/): In 1989, a young man, Gary Dotson, left prison after being unjustly convicted and spending six years in jail because someone convicted him of a crime he never committed. Not through a clever lawyer, not a law secreted witness, but his innocence was proved by blood, rather than a drop of blood. The appeal of the rape conviction of Dotson was based on circumstantial evidence relying on a testimony that was later changed, and at the same time lacked any feasible defense. However, the revolutionary application of DNA testing, which at that point was a young technology, was later used […]
- [AI in Space: Pioneering the Next Era of Interstellar Exploration](https://scientiamag.org/ai-in-space-pioneering-the-next-era-of-interstellar-exploration/): The rise of Artificial Intelligence has spurred all kinds of ambivalent discussions, from the loss of jobs to the improvement of productivity and the rise in global GDP. But beyond the archetype ChatGPT writing emails or, perhaps, generating your Ghilbi art for the gram, there exists a promising use case that AI entails: accelerating scientific research. In space exploration, this silent revolution has already been set in motion, and fortunately, we have the primary prerequisite ready for it to bear fruit: petabytes (even more) of observatory data that is, quite literally, lying around, yearning to be explored. Can AI, with […]
- [The Bizarre Lights Over Islamabad Before the Earthquake – Here’s What Experts Say!](https://scientiamag.org/the-bizarre-lights-over-islamabad-before-the-earthquake-heres-what-experts-say/): Blue, green, or violet lights have been observed in the sky before or during seismic events. These phenomena are referred to as earthquake lights (EQL). Earthquake lights are rare natural occurrences that have been documented for centuries. The underlying scientific mechanisms responsible for EQL remain undetermined. According to the US Geological Survey, phenomena such as sheet lightning, balls of light, streamers, and steady glows have been reported in association with earthquakes. Geophysicists differ on the extent to which they think that individual reports of unusual lighting near the time and epicenter of an earthquake represent EQL. Some experts doubt that […]
- [Transforming Pain into Power: Succeeding with PTSD Through a Positive Mindset](https://scientiamag.org/transforming-pain-into-power-succeeding-with-ptsd-through-a-positive-mindset/): Mark lost his innocence during four and a half months in a Turkish jail. He felt helpless and horrified, as no one was aware of his condition. He witnessed brutality beyond human perception, so extreme that, by the time he was released, he felt like nothing more than a puppet. Initially, he was unaware that he was suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Upon returning to Australia, he experienced anxiety, nightmares, and constant fear. He lost his job, home, and family, yet he remained unaware of the true nature of his mental struggle. In a society that considered him […]
- [When Nature Strikes: The Devastating Human Cost of Pakistan's Flood Crisis](https://scientiamag.org/when-nature-strikes-the-devastating-human-cost-of-pakistans-flooding-crisis/): “I went to Chakwal to interview people about how their lives were being affected by climate change. While I was there, the weather suddenly changed, and it rained heavily, 443 mm, which was the highest recorded rainfall. A few days later, it rained in Islamabad, and Saidpur village was badly hit by urban flooding, said to be caused by a cloudburst. My own area, near the Margalla Hills, was also drowned in rain. It came down so fast that in minutes, water was up to my knees. Roads were blocked, whole areas were cut off, the River Sawan flooded, and […]
- [A Celestial Discovery: New Images Uncover the Hidden Companion of Betelgeuse](https://scientiamag.org/a-celestial-discovery-new-images-uncover-the-hidden-companion-of-betelgeuse/): Cuddled with Betelgeuse, a bright red star in the constellation Orion, astronomers may have finally found the giant star’s long-sought companion. This close-orbiting partner, first postulated over a century ago, matches some predictions and adds another piece to the puzzle of the mysterious supergiant star. The images, to appear in the Astrophysical Journal Letters, show the companion only faintly. Astronomers and others in the field agree that the discovery, while exciting, is not definitive. “At this point, it is quite tough to say whether or not the detection is believable. We’ll have to wait and see if the companion can be confirmed […]
- [When Science Meets Silence: Decoding Post-Mortem Techniques in the Humaira Asghar Investigation](https://scientiamag.org/when-science-meets-silence-decoding-post-mortem-techniques-in-the-humaira-asghar-investigation/): On 8th July 2025, a court official broke a locked flat in the posh Defence Phase VI area of the city of Karachi and found nothing but bones and shredded pieces of garment, the skeletal remains of an actress, Humaira Asghar, who had disappeared in the eyes of the public a few months before. The house rent was not paid in months, she had left stale groceries in the fridge back in September 2024, and her phone settled into a period of silence in the first week of October. An early report of the autopsy, published on July 11, 2025, […]
- [The Power of Numbers: How Population Trends Impact Our Future](https://scientiamag.org/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 […]
- [Death, Resilience, and Hope: A Review of "As Long As the Lemon Trees Grow"](https://scientiamag.org/death-resilience-and-hope-a-review-of-as-long-as-the-lemon-trees-grow/): Most of us take safety for granted, but safety is not a universal reality, especially in our current world. Zoulfa Katouh’s novel “As Long As the Lemon Trees Grow” is a moving portrayal of survival, love, and resistance during the Syrian civil war. It is a deeply human story told through the eyes of Salama, a young pharmacy student who unexpectedly finds herself amid a revolution and is forced to become a surgeon. The book does not merely recount the horrors of war—it reveals how war lives inside a person and shapes their everyday reality. It highlights the stark contrast […]
- [Swat Flood Tragedy: A Wake-Up Call on Climate Change, not a Headline to Forget](https://scientiamag.org/swat-flood-tragedy-a-wake-up-call-on-climate-change-not-a-headline-to-forget/): I remember having a cup of tea that day with my colleagues beside a hotel along the road overlooking the Swat River. The water was calm, the scenery was photogenic, and tourist families were enjoying, taking selfies as a light breeze cooled the valley. I observed people having breakfast beside the hotel constructed on the riverbank, snapping pictures and even going into the water despite the unpredictable weather and numerous alerts. Then, in a matter of moments, the sky darkened, the river turned muddy, the water roared, and the calm river started to transform into a flash flood. Many people […]
- [Finding Your North Star: Dr Mohammad Mustafa on Passion, Purpose, and Careers](https://scientiamag.org/finding-your-north-star-dr-mohammad-mustafa-on-passion-purpose-and-careers/): Dr. Muhammad Mustafa, a renowned science communicator, professor, and cancer researcher, has represented Pakistan nationally and internationally on multiple occasions and platforms. He has empowered thousands of students both inside and outside classrooms to be more. More passionate, more empathetic, and more vocal about science. His passion is visible as he sits surrounded by children of all ages, social backgrounds, and interests, all smiling ear-to-ear, captivated by the words and scientific spectacles they see. His experience is reflected by the multiple lectures, teacher-training sessions, and guest talks he has given in university classrooms and conferences, both locally and internationally. However, […]
- [Typos, Slang Trip Up AI Medical Assessments](https://scientiamag.org/typos-slang-trip-up-ai-medical-assessments/): Common human typing errors and slang can trip up artificial intelligence (AI) programs designed to aid health care workers by reviewing health records, a new MIT study says. Typos and extra white spaces can interfere with AI’s ability to properly analyze patient records, researchers reported this week at an Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) conference in Athens, Greece. The researchers pointed out that the missing gender references or the use of slang can also foul up an AI’s treatment recommendations. They were also more likely to change these treatment recommendations for women, resulting in a higher percentage who were erroneously advised […]
- [Crisis and Courage: Inside the Lives of Emergency Physicians in the War-torn Regions](https://scientiamag.org/crisis-and-courage-inside-the-lives-of-emergency-physicians-in-the-war-torn-regions/): “I scroll aimlessly on my phone, stumbling onto video footage of Shaban Al-Dalou, a 19-year-old man engulfed in flames outside Al-Aqsa Hospital in Gaza. I immediately recognize the hospital and nearby flimsy tents crammed with displaced families. I had worked as a doctor on those very grounds, which became a makeshift village with its subculture.” “In my time working as a pediatrician in Gaza, I saw starving babies gasping for air and reaching for their mothers, who were buried under rubble. I treated an entire family who had sustained third-degree burns, eyes blistered shut, children’s genitalia scorched and disfigured from […]
- [Equipping Children with Survival Strategies in War Emergencies](https://scientiamag.org/equipping-children-with-survival-strategies-in-war-emergencies/): Over the last few decades, the concept of emergency management has evolved significantly to become a part of the field of school safety. The alarming rates of war, violent acts, terrorist activities, and natural calamities have raised awareness about the need to focus on this area of education. In addition to war-related emergencies, other crises also impact schools. These include medical emergencies, public health crises, accidents, injuries, and the loss of a school community member. Therefore, it is high time for school emergency management plans to adopt an “all-hazards” approach so that children are well-equipped to handle a wide range […]
- [Nuclear Fusion: The Urgent Solution to Our Climate Emergency and Clean Energy Needs](https://scientiamag.org/nuclear-fusion-the-urgent-solution-to-our-climate-emergency-and-clean-energy-needs/): The climate crisis is not an anomaly to us. The only difference between the climate crisis today and a few decades ago is that it’s worsening at an unprecedented, exponential pace. The Global Energy Review 2025 by the International Energy Agency shows CO₂ emissions reaching an all-time high of 37.8 billion tonnes in 2024! Rising population rate, indeed, is a major facet in increased energy usage, ultimately leading to extreme carbon emissions. In recent years, though, another major factor has presented itself: the rising energy requirements of enormous AI data centres. Another report by the International Energy Agency predicts that […]
- [Evolving Landscape of Biotechnology in Pakistan: Innovations and Future Prospects](https://scientiamag.org/evolving-landscape-of-biotechnology-in-pakistan-innovations-and-future-prospects/): As a teenager visiting my hometown and Abbottabad city, I was disappointed by the land waste at the gateway to the Northern areas, worrying about its impact on the tourists. I always used to think about sustainable and innovative waste treatment solutions. When I came across biotechnology’s potential to generate energy, treat waste, and remediate the impacts of industries and agriculture, I immediately decided to choose it as a field. Throughout my academic journey, I have commonly heard discouraging remarks regarding biotechnology as a field in Pakistan. Many credited it as a subject with uncertain career prospects. This concept is […]
- [Beyond the Battlefield: How Ethics Shapes the Reasons and Conduct of War](https://scientiamag.org/beyond-the-battlefield-how-ethics-shapes-the-reasons-and-conduct-of-war/): “Ethics in the Line of Fire: Pakistan’s Calculated Response vs India’s Civilian Toll” In modern warfare, where satellites guide missile routes and media shape the overall narratives, one element that is often overlooked becomes most defining: ethics. The recent tensions that escalated between India and Pakistan offered the world more than a clash between two nuclear-armed nations; it revealed a contrast in psychological discipline, military conduct, and ethical restraint. The current crisis originated on April 22, 2025, when terrorists brutally killed 26 tourists, including a Nepalese national, in Pahalgam. The attack was executed by the Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy […]
- [Taming Jumping Genes: Could Controlling Junk DNA Delay Aging?](https://scientiamag.org/taming-jumping-genes-could-controlling-junk-dna-delay-aging/): For a long time, scientists believed that much of our DNA was just biologically static, i.e., sequences that didn’t code for anything meaningful. These stretches were nicknamed “junk DNA” and considered evolutionary leftovers. But recent discoveries have challenged this view. Hidden in this so-called junk are fragments known as jumping genes, or transposable elements (TEs), which appear to play a surprising role in aging and disease. Researchers now suspect that these elements are not as dormant as once thought. They may be actively involved in causing DNA damage, stirring up inflammation, and undermining the genome’s stability as we grow older. […]
- [In the Shadows of War— How Trauma Writes Its Legacy on the Bodies of Women and Children](https://scientiamag.org/in-the-shadows-of-war-how-trauma-writes-its-legacy-on-the-bodies-of-women-and-children/): Some wars end with ceasefires. And then some wars live on in the womb, in the DNA, in the tear ducts of children too young to understand what they’ve inherited— A Trauma! When the Guns Go Silent, the Wounds Begin to Speak War isn’t just about showing off weapons or power. It’s a chain of broken families, incomplete homes, cries that never stop, and torn hearts. It destroys homes, schools, hospitals, and even animal shelters. It doesn’t just take lives, it rewrites them. Long after bullets stop flying and ceasefires are declared, the damage continues in quieter, more insidious ways. […]
- [Modern Warfare Redefined: Dr Tughral Yamin on the Indo-Pak War 2025](https://scientiamag.org/modern-warfare-redefined-dr-tughral-yamin-on-the-indo-pak-war-2025/): Today, war is no longer confined to battlegrounds, and understanding the interaction between strategy, technology, and statecraft has never been more urgent, especially in South Asia especially the sub-continent, where tensions and military advancements continue to shape regional dynamics. To discover these convolutions, Scientia Magazine speaks with Dr. Tughral Yamin, an exceptionally qualified expert who bridges the gap between military command and strategic scholarship. A retired Brigadier of the Pakistan Army, Dr. Tughral Yamin served from 1974 to 2008 in a variety of command, staff, and international roles, including peacekeeping deployment in Somalia (1992–93) and as Pakistan’s senior delegate to […]
- [May – Month of Patents, Dandy Horse and our Sewing Patterns](https://scientiamag.org/may-month-of-patents-dandy-horse-and-our-sewing-patterns/): May is the month of patents; from ice machines to Tesla’s cool tech things – everything got a patent. It is the month when we got our infamous condensed milk too – the sweet syrup on our traditional Gola Ganda. We have compiled a list of ten main events that happened this month in the past. May 1, 1888 Nikola Tesla is the name we all know for his interest in electricity and his capability to make it free for everyone. Yet this was not achieved, but do you know that the coolest guy got patent #308,280 from the U.S, […]
- [The STEM Whisperer: The Role of Female Tutors in Attracting More Women](https://scientiamag.org/the-stem-whisperer-the-role-of-female-tutors-in-attracting-more-women/): “I don’t think you have it in you, you might as well just give up”, my 6th-grade Math teacher said with a mix of exasperation and sarcasm. I looked at him and smiled awkwardly before turning back to my friend and giggling like those words hadn’t engraved themselves onto my heart. 15 years, an A* in Math, and a continuous string of scholarships later, I still remember his words. Despite his doubt, I did have it in me. What had changed, you may ask? I met teachers who believed in me and pushed me to be more than I thought […]

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