Dr Claire Asher
Dr Claire Asher is a science journalist and has a PhD in Genetics, Ecology, and Evolution (GEE) at the University of Leeds. Her first book, Brave Green World: How Science Can Save Our Planet, was published in 2021.
Recent articles by Dr Claire Asher
Is it true you weigh less in Canada?
Data confirmed two theories decades after scientists discovered the phenomenon.
Here’s what monsters could actually be real, according to science
The real-life explanations for the creatures that haunt our imaginations.
What was the Great Moon Hoax of 1835?
'Fake news' was alive and well 200 years ago.
What is a skyquake?
Skyquakes are very real. What causes them, however, is shrouded in mystery.
Has anyone been killed by their own inventions?
Dumb ways to die: inventor edition.
This is the deadliest Olympic sport of all time
Which event has the most fatalities? (Spoiler: it's not the javelin).
Could anyone become an Olympian with enough practice?
Factors including genetics and even your birthday could have more influence on your medal hopes than practice alone.
Why is the pink lake in Australia pink?
Hint: it’s not a Barbie movie marketing ploy.
What is a fairy ring?
With fungi, there's a lot going on beneath the surface.
Volcanic eruption: Inside Iceland’s new battle to tame a wave of deadly lava
After three years of fiery eruptions, experts are now confident that Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula has entered a new fiery phase.
What ever happened with the Bermuda Triangle?
Turns out there's no much truth to the legend.
The strange science behind the 'rainbow' tree
This stunning, brightly coloured tree has neon stripes running along its trunk making it look as if it has been painted.
Snake Island: The bizarre true story of Earth’s most venomous isle
The deadly golden lancehead snakes living on Snake Island have fast-acting venom which cause a range of nightmarish symptoms.
What is guttation?
The build-up of water inside plants is released via sap through specialist pores in the leaf.
Is there a known limit on how tall a tree can grow?
The tallest tree in the world hasn’t reached the maximum height a tree can grow... yet.
What gives clouds their shape?
Why are some clouds puffy and other clouds wispy?
Climate CSI: How counting tree rings can unlock environmental mysteries
At its core, dendrochronology is the science of using tree rings to date and analyse events in the past. But how does it work? Here's a closer look at this fascinating process.
What is the best way to dry clothes indoors?
The ideal way to dry wet laundry is to hang it outside on a warm, sunny day, but that’s not always possible.
Can animals be allergic to humans?
Allergic alpacas and sneezing sloths - can animals be allergic to humans?
Why your chewing gum could be secretly destroying the planet
Sticky situation: Is your chewing gum outliving your great-great-great-grandchildren?
Can a contact lens get stuck behind your eye?
It's a common concern.
What is holy fire disease?
And yes, it still exists today.
How to build the ultimate snowman, according to science
Not all snow is created equal.
What’s the difference between wave energy and tidal energy?
Scientists and engineers are developing ways to capture these renewable resources.