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Engineering transforms ideas into solutions that power progress. The National Academies explore advances in design, materials, manufacturing, and systems that improve lives and communities. Discover research that drives innovation while promoting safety, resilience, and sustainability. 

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The Risks and Benefits of Synthetic Cells: Q&A with Peter Carr

Feature Story

In an interview, synthetic biologist Peter Carr explains research on synthetic cells, their potential benefits and hazards, and how governance of this research should work. Carr co-chaired a recent National Academies study of the subject.

Jul 7, 2026

Best Practices, Opportunities for Plugging Orphan Wells Identified in New Report

News Release

Potentially hundreds of thousands of orphaned oil and gas wells across the U.S. remain unplugged or were sealed before modern standards existed, and pose risks to public health, the environment, and nearby communities. A new National Academies report examines technologies and best practices for plugging and remediating orphan wells.

Jun 11, 2026
Photo of the old rusty oil rigs with preasure valve

Does the current Ebola vaccine protect against every type of Ebola virus?

Based on Science

No. The currently approved Ebola vaccine used for outbreak response is called Ervebo. Ervebo protects against one species of Ebola virus, called Zaire ebolavirus. It has not been proven to protect against other Ebola viruses, including Bundibugyo virus. The 2026 outbreak in Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo is caused by Bundibugyo virus, a different Ebola virus for which there is currently no approved vaccine.

May 22, 2026
A doctor in Africa checks the vaccine syringe

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