Thomas Merritt
Full Professor in Genomics and Bioinformatics
What is Mitosis?
Backgrounders
Mitosis is an important part of cell division that helps organisms grow and repair themselves.
Celiac Disease: When You Really Need to Stay Gluten-Free
STEM Explained
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder. Gluten triggers an immune system response, seriously affecting nutrition.
Why Do People Get Hangovers?
STEM Explained
Why does drinking too much alcohol make people feel so bad? Read about four theories.
What are curds and whey?
Hands-on Activities
It starts with curds and whey! Explore the basic chemistry behind making cheese in this hands on activity.
The Classification of Life: From Linnaeus to DNA Barcoding
Backgrounders
Learn about two taxonomy systems that scientists use to classify the life around us.
The Immune Response
STEM Explained
When you cut your finger, your immune system kicks in to protect you from pathogens.
The Surprising Reason You Feel Awful When You're Sick
STEM Explained
Viruses can make you feel awful! This article explains how feeling bad might be your immune system’s way of helping you heal.
Should Scientists Clone Extinct Species?
STEM Explained
Cloning makes it possible to bring extinct species back to life. But is that a good idea?
Measles and Measles Prevention
STEM Explained
Learn about the measles virus, its impact and vaccination for prevention of the disease.
Meiosis Mistakes
STEM Explained
Errors during meiosis can alter the number of chromosomes in cells and lead to genetic disorders.
My Stem Cell Donation Story
STEM Explained
In April 2016, Let’s Talk Science volunteer Daniel Tarade donated stem cells to help a person who needed a stem cell transplant to survive. Learn what stem cells are, how and why people donate, and what Daniel’s experience was like.
Phages vs. Antibiotics
STEM Explained
Many doctors prescribe antibiotics to cure infections. But should they be prescribing viruses instead?
Is there a difference between baking powder and baking soda?
Hands-on Activities
Explore acid-base chemical reactions that really get things bubbling in the kitchen!
How is food packaged?
Hands-on Activities
Take a closer look at food packaging. Explore why and how food is packaged in different ways.