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
This top-secret US space plane could reshape space warfare forever
The X-37B returned to Earth this month, but details of its time in space remain hazy, to say the least.
This cholesterol-lowering drug combo could save hundreds of thousands of lives, claim scientists
Scientists are urging doctors to make this the go-to treatment for people across the globe
Clocks change UK 2025: When do they go forward and why?
Here we go again – time to sacrifice sleep in the name of sunshine
This simple snacking habit could improve your cholesterol levels: new study
This idea might seem nuts, but it really (pe)can work.
This stunning new cosmic map could decode our dark Universe
Millions of galaxies found; billions more await. The Euclid space telescope’s first glimpse into the universe will blow your mind.
Nicotine pouch flavours may make them more addictive, study claims
Nicotine is already highly addictive – now, a new animal study suggests certain flavourings make it even more so
We’ve finally discovered how your brain differs from a chimp’s: new study
Turns out that our brains are quite unique compared to our closest animal relatives – if you look hard enough.
Strange microscopic lightning may have kickstarted life on Earth
Tiny zaps of electricity may have provided the energy to form life as we know it.
This ‘switch’ could put an end to your weight loss plateaus, say scientists
Counting calories to no avail? Scientists may have found a way to stop your body fighting weight loss.
Daylight savings time is bad for our health. Here’s what to do about it
How to adjust to losing an hour of sleep.
4 ridiculously easy ways to upgrade your pancakes, according to science
Whether you’re going fluffy or thin, these easy science hacks will take your pancake game to the next level.
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.