How to stay smart in the age of AI: the science of critical thinking

Nature, Published online: 23 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02930-6There is growing concern that AI can blunt memory and reasoning. But science shows ways to keep the brain sharp.

Nature, Published online: 23 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02930-6

There is growing concern that AI can blunt memory and reasoning. But science shows ways to keep the brain sharp.

In praise of human teachers: universities must resist outsourcing everything to AI

Nature, Published online: 23 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02949-9An AI revolution is sweeping through education. But teachers who can convey the excitement of thinking and learning are irreplaceable.

Nature, Published online: 23 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02949-9

An AI revolution is sweeping through education. But teachers who can convey the excitement of thinking and learning are irreplaceable.

This super-cold microscope could spur a quantum revolution

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02942-2The instrument, which operates near absolute zero for hours, will soon ship to a few labs. Researchers are thrilled.

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02942-2

The instrument, which operates near absolute zero for hours, will soon ship to a few labs. Researchers are thrilled.

About to give your first lecture? Read this first

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02369-9Ten researchers and faculty members share what surprised them when they began teaching — and what they wish they had known before walking into the room.

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02369-9

Ten researchers and faculty members share what surprised them when they began teaching — and what they wish they had known before walking into the room.

Why AI companies can’t be trusted to self-regulate

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-03014-1From aviation to banking, high-risk industries are subject to independent oversight and meaningful penalties. AI companies should be no exception.

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-03014-1

From aviation to banking, high-risk industries are subject to independent oversight and meaningful penalties. AI companies should be no exception.

Nepal floods pose biggest test yet for UN climate loss and damage fund

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-03000-7Countries should not have to wait months to receive relatively small grants for responding to the immediate impact of extreme weather.

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-03000-7

Countries should not have to wait months to receive relatively small grants for responding to the immediate impact of extreme weather.

Will AI really kill us all? The science behind the hype

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02941-3Nature examines whether the technology might spell the end for humans, and why AI companies are calling for a slowdown.

Nature, Published online: 22 September 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02941-3

Nature examines whether the technology might spell the end for humans, and why AI companies are calling for a slowdown.