Maria Temming

Assistant Managing Editor, Science News Explores

Maria Temming is the Assistant Managing Editor at Science News Explores. Maria has undergraduate degrees in physics and English from Elon University and a master's degree in science writing from MIT. She has written for Scientific AmericanSky & Telescope and NOVA Next. She’s also a former staff writer at Science News.

All Stories by Maria Temming

  1. Psychology

    Listening to slightly different sounds in each ear may boost focus, teen finds

    While “binaural beats” may boost attention, his research shows video game music is distracting.

  2. Ants are better team players than people

    For ants, teamwork makes the dream work. For humans, teamwork can be a trip-up.

  3. Chemistry

    Let’s learn about surprising uses for human waste

    Around the world, scientists are investigating ways to turn poop and pee into fertilizer, fuel and construction materials.

  4. Artificial Intelligence

    AI shouldn’t be trusted with your mental health, teen finds

    Her research suggests that ChatGPT and similar AI systems are not suitable replacements for human therapists.

  5. Space

    Let’s learn about spooky ‘dark energy’

    No one knows exactly what this stuff is, but it’s shaping our universe on the largest scales.

  6. Animals

    Let’s learn about tardigrades

    These tiny animals can survive drying out, freezing, harsh radiation and other hazards.

  7. Earth

    Let’s learn about rivers

    Rivers vary a lot in size and terrain, but all share a few basic features.

  8. Tech

    You can ‘grab’ these virtual displays and manipulate them midair

    Such interactive floating graphics and virtual objects could be used to make more immersive video games and museum exhibits.

  9. Health & Medicine

    Let’s learn about vaccines

    These medical treatments have saved millions of lives and spared many others from seriously unpleasant infections.

  10. Animals

    Sheep, llamas and goats fall for optical illusions too

    These findings could help reveal when and why falling for optical illusions evolved in animals.

  11. Plants

    Let’s learn about plant movement

    Some plants use their powers of superspeed to spread spores, while others use it to snatch up prey.

  12. Brain

    Let’s learn about memory

    Brain injuries, drug use and other factors can impair our memory. But targeted practice and healthy habits can boost our ability to remember.