Kathiann Kowalski

Freelance Writer

Kathiann Kowalski loves talking with scientists and engineers about their work and why it matters. And she loves getting into the field — whether that’s at a lab, in a research forest, at a drilling site or on a research boat. She has written more than 700 articles, plus 25 books for young people. “There’s always something new happening — and something new to learn,” she says.

 

Kathi graduated from Hofstra University in New York and got her law degree from Harvard Law School in Massachusetts. She previously practiced environmental law with a large firm. Kathi enjoys hiking, sewing, reading and travel.

All Stories by Kathiann Kowalski

  1. Genetics

    Explainer: DNA hunters

    Snippets of DNA can be left behind by a passing organism. Some researchers now act as wildlife detectives to identify the sources of such cast-off DNA.

  2. Genetics

    Can DNA editing save endangered species?

    Scientists may be able to help endangered species by changing the genes of a whole population of wild animals. But some question whether that is wise.

  3. Chemistry

    Human waste could power plastic-making in space

    Someday recycled urine and exhaled breath could feed specially engineered yeast to make plastics and other useful chemicals on long space missions.

  4. Health & Medicine

    Scientists probe new ways to control malaria

    In the quest to stop malaria, one researcher studies the disease in birds, bats and other animals. Another focuses on climate change and human sprawl.

  5. Chemistry

    Science works to save a salty world treasure

    Poland’s 700-year old salt mine, just outside Kraków, not only is a cultural art treasure, but also an active research site for geologists, chemists and more.

  6. Materials Science

    One day, your sunscreen may be made from DNA

    A new approach to sunscreen could use a thin layer of DNA to protect skin cells — and hopefully prevent cancer.

  7. Materials Science

    U.S. Army is developing high-tech underwear

    A new fabric could warm the skin of active soldiers in cold climates. At the same time, it could soak away sweat that might otherwise cause chills.

  8. Psychology

    Warnings may help flag fake news, but they also backfire

    Warning that a news story may be false can help people avoid being duped by hoaxes — but not as much as you might think, according to a new study.

  9. Tech

    Spying on brains in action

    New tools let scientists see inside the brain and nervous system as their research subjects move around.

  10. Chemistry

    Recycling urine may be a way to boost plant growth

    A new chemical method makes nutrient-rich fertilizers from human urine.

  11. Physics

    Disabilities don’t stop these experts in science and tech

    People with disabilities are as varied as the careers some of them pursue in science, technology, engineering and math.

  12. Science & Society

    Deaf students can overcome hurdles to careers in STEM

    Classroom tactics to help deaf students may also pay big benefits for students who hear just fine.