A new multistep hierarchical cascade controls activation of an integrative and conjugative element in a small subpopulation of cells in its bacterial host, yielding proficient DNA transferring cells.

DNA uptake and recombination in pneumococcus are highly efficient and independent of the cell-cycle or genetic location of the transformed allele, but limited to maximally 50% of the population.

Development from dual-origin mesenchyme with common competence explains anatomical parallels and shared patterning of the jawed vertebrate gill arch and paired fin skeletons.

Mathematical methods based on geometry that directly embody the developmental concepts of competency, commitment, and determination provide succinct descriptions of morphogenesis and allow quantitative predictions from fits to sparse genetic data in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Wikidata is continuously-updated resource that could improve the efficiency and accuracy of research in many areas of the life and biomedical sciences.

A method to assess the training of scientists, based on a set of 10 core competencies, is proposed.

Staff from the Mayo Clinic in the US and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden describe a joint transatlantic course intended to broaden the horizons of the next generation of researchers in the field of regenerative medicine.

Journals can benefit from listening to graduate students, postdocs and newly-independent group leaders.

A set of paintings by Gustav Klimt highlights ongoing tensions in the relationships between art, science and society.

Early-career researchers propose seven actions that can be taken by research institutions and departments to improve science training.