A general method for inferring fitness from a sample of nucleotide sequences can predict the progenitor of next year's seasonal influenza.

Each stage of the scientific life cycle stands to benefit from the introduction of data science techniques.

Being able to take up DNA from their environment might allow pneumococcal bacteria to colonize the human nose and throat for longer periods of time.

The controlled infection of volunteers with Plasmodium falciparum parasites could provide a platform to evaluate new drugs and vaccines aimed at blocking malaria transmission.

Horizon scanning has been used to identify opportunities and risks presented by 20 emerging issues in the field of biological engineering.

The influenza virus mutates faster than we previously thought.

We identify key strengths and limitations in use of viral genotyping and phenotyping to estimate pandemic risk from influenza A viruses, focusing on 3 traits, hemagglutinin binding specificity, hemagglutinin pH of activation, and polymerase complex efficiency.

Data are reported for the monthly number of uploads to and downloads from bioRxiv, and for the number of preprints that are later published in peer-reviewed journals.