My Writing

A selection of recent articles: 2016-present

Modeling the power of polarization

With assists from politicians and social media, people are increasingly dividing themselves into social and political factions. Models can hint at how it happens—and maybe offer ways to mitigate it.


Cities have become epicenters for confronting climate change, harnessing renewable energy, and mitigating pollution. The city plans striving for sustainability are many. Easy solutions are few.

Efforts are underway to exploit a strategy that could generate fusion with relative ease.

Virtual reality therapy set for a real renaissance

As the technology becomes cheaper and more accessible, and as research on its effectiveness matures, virtual reality is treating an array of vexing mental ailments.

The genuine problem of fake news

Intentionally deceptive news has co-opted social media to go viral and influence millions. Science and technology can suggest why and how. But can they offer solutions?

Special agents offer modeling upgrade

After playing a key role in the fight against Ebola, agent-based models are poised to help decision-makers tackle other disease outbreaks, economic turbulence, and more.

Four Online Articles on Einstein,

pegged to the premier of the National Geographic series Genius

A selection of my articles from Nature: 2008-2016

Some older articles