Sarah Rothman | For scientists, falsifying data is the ultimate crime

Because researchers often receive public dollars and results can affect public policy, falsifying data is a very serious crime.

Sarah Rothman | Phila. elephants find a better place to roam

Do you remember the first time you saw an elephant? Nah, me either. But if we were elephants we might remember. The old saying about having a memory like an elephant's isn't a myth. Science agrees that elephants build up a memory of each other over time. The oldest members of the group can indicate to the others whether a newcomer is friendly or not.

Sarah Rothman | Serve your country with service

Volunteerism is reaching record highs in many parts of the country; students should think about giving their time.

Sarah Rothman | Regulatory agency should oversee stem cells

America created the Atomic Energy Commission to oversee nuclear power; nation should take up similar effort stem cells.

Sarah Rothman | A country full of 300 million problems

From bankrupt social programs to a trashed environment, we aren't ready for continued American population growth.

Sarah Rothman | FDA may hold the key to stopping obesity

Many people are unable to stop their own obesity; allowing for the release of obesity pills could keep millions healthy.

Sarah Rothman | Far too many undergrads don't understand 'tenure'

Students must understand the teacher tenure process, since it decides which teachers stay and which teachers go.

Sarah Rothman | Bias doesn't stop female scientists

In January 2005, then-Harvard University President Lawrence Summers gave the speech heard 'round the world. In a talk presented at a conference on diversifying the science and engineering workforce, he hypothesised that differences in innate abilities are responsible for the relative scarcity of women in science.

Sarah Rothman | America may fall behind the research curve

As we speak, American scientists are packing their bags and moving to Singapore.

Sarah Rothman | The best rankings move: Ditch the system

I suppose it's old news by now that Penn has fallen to No. 7 (from No. 4) in the U.S. News & World Report rankings this fall. What a disappointment! What did we do to deserve this? Increasing class sizes? Disappointing statistics for the Class of '10? And, most importantly, was Amy Gutmann reprimanded? Apparently not.