Tom Howarth
Tom is trends editor at BBC Science Focus. He obtained an MPhil degree in advanced chemical engineering from the University of Cambridge, where he conducted research into amyloid protein folding using fluorescent lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). Before joining BBC Science Focus, Tom worked as a science communicator at the European Southern Observatory and has previously written GreenBiz and Geographical Magazine too. Today, he covers all types of trending science stories, from ecology to epidemiology, chemistry to computer science.
Recent articles by Tom Howarth
How to cut your dementia risk: 7 key lessons from the world’s best studies
The latest research is revealing clues about how you might be able to lower your chances of getting dementia. Here’s what the science says about keeping your mind sharp.
Climate change will soon make Earth's days longer. Here’s what that means for the planet
Two recent studies have shown that global warming is changing things in ways we couldn’t imagine
Why you don’t have free will, according to a top neuroscientist
One of science and philosophy’s most profound questions may have finally been answered.
Mysterious forces are causing Earth's continents to rise. Now scientists think they know why
When the continents split hundreds of millions of years ago, a chain reaction was set off with major consequences for the planet.
Common kitchen worktop material is causing incurable lung disease - new study
Doctors call for ban on artificial stone as silicosis cases emerge.
Scientists may have finally found a cheap, natural cure for baldness
Balding has left researchers scratching their heads for decades. Could all that be about to change?
This Egyptian mummy was found screaming 90 years ago. Now scientists might know why
3,500 years after she died, this Egyptian mummy is finally revealing her secrets.
Struggle to focus? You could be the 1 in 20 people with cognitive disengagement syndrome
The lesser known cousin of ADHD, CSD is far more common than you might think.
Yes, even a mild UK heatwave feels much worse than in the US. Here's why
Paddling pool? Check. Ice cream? Check. Sweat patches? Check, check.
We might finally know how Egypt’s oldest pyramid was built
Just when you thought the Egyptians couldn’t get any smarter.
This diet can reverse your biological age in 8 weeks, claims bold new study
Going vegan could impact how your body ages, according to a small study of identical twins.
Oats mimic the effects of Ozempic, new study finds
However, scientists warn it's still not a weight loss superfood.
Losing your arm fat makes dementia 18% less likely - new study
A growth in muscle strength could also significantly lower your risk.
'Dark Oxygen' hidden on ocean floor could rewrite the rules of evolution
The discovery of mysterious oxygen sources deep below the surface calls into question our understanding of how life was kick started.
Alcohol has a dramatic impact on your biological age. Here’s how
The effects of alcohol extend beyond a sore head the next day.
Autism could soon be detected in your poop. Here’s why
Your gut microbiome could be the key to understanding autism spectrum disorder.
This bold new space mission will intersect ‘incoming asteroid’ heading towards Earth
This is a rare opportunity to study an asteroid at close quarters.
World’s pluckiest lion survives record-breaking swim across crocodile-infested waters
Some would call it stupidity, others resilience. Whatever the case, this lion is a survivor like no other.
Auroras could soon pose serious threat to our electrical infrastructure, study reveals
Sure, they’re pretty, but a new study has revealed how the northern lights can come with a nasty bite.
This gelatinous meat blob could one day replace beef
Do you prefer your gelatin-based hydrogel medium-rare or well done?
Here’s how NASA plans to finally destroy the International Space Station
After 30 years of dutiful service, our home among the stars will be ripped apart by the atmosphere.
The real reason cats scratch furniture – and how to make them stop
They're cute, so they get away with it.
Something very strange is happening to Earth’s core, and scientists might finally know why
A bold new study has offered up fresh clues about the weird happenings beneath our feet.
Snacking on baby carrots could have serious health benefits, research shows
Seeing in the dark, making you live longer… is there anything carrots can’t do?