Zahra Khan
I completed my PhD in chemistry in 2023 at University College London (UCL) and A*STAR (Singapore). I have held positions in the university teaching faculty as well as research in gender-responsive policy before interning at Chemistry World. I have worked on corporate communications - writing blogs and newsletters as well as reference guides. I also have experience with copywriting on social media.
I am interested in science reporting and am passionate about sharing diverse voices in chemistry to a global audience, making the stories inclusive and accessible to all, and inspiring the next generation to pursue science.
I am particularly interested in materials chemistry, climate science and science policy.
ResearchIntelligent ionotronic wood device can keep an eye on people’s health
Infusing wood with ionic liquid enables creation of electronic wood
ResearchNew ‘supermolecule’ demonstrated for the first time at record-breaking ultracold temperature
Largest polyatomic molecule created and stabilised at just above absolute zero provides new insights into quantum chemistry
NewsChina conducts nationwide audit of research misconduct after thousands of papers retracted
Universities must submit a comprehensive list of all retracted academic papers in the past three years along with reasons for the retractions
FeatureThe chemistry of love
There’s chemistry behind every step of a romantic relationship, from the initial spark to the pain of break up, as Zahra Khan discovers
NewsApproval of nuclear pilot plant that uses molten salt coolant instead of water a step towards safer reactors
Historic milestone reached as US grants permission for non-water cooled reactor for first time in 50 years
ResearchThermodynamically stable ‘plumber’s nightmare’ structure self-assembles from block copolymers
The crucial role of end group and linker chemistry enabled creation of the infamous structure, offering a new way to produce nanoscale architecture
NewsSelf-cleaning period product to be trialled in rural communities in Nepal
Sanitary pad is designed to kill virtually all bacteria under visible light and reduce the risk of reproductive and urinary tract infections
OpinionMaria Augusta Arruda: ‘Poetry is my refuge’
The Brazilian research leader on thinking differently and supporting Black researchers
NewsJapan unveils plans to breathe new life into its higher education institutions
Facing a demographic crisis, Japan is hoping to attract more international students and make it easier for them to live and work there
OpinionScientists benefitted from the slave trade
The close relationship between science and slavery should not be forgotten
NewsTesting extends range of US chocolate foods containing lead and cadmium
Consumer Reports calls on brands to do more to lower levels of metals in their products
ResearchActivating a chemical reaction by ‘flipping a switch’
A low-cost microfluidic reactor could cut the environmental footprint of synthesis by directing electrons via an external electric field
CareersBig Manny’s viral science content is making chemistry relatable and accessible
From lab to back garden, this content creator is inspiring young people to continue studying science
ResearchPlaying her part in building South Africa’s scientific reputation
Meet Pinkie Ntola, an early-career Black researcher who is passionate about being a credible scientist, an inspiring teacher and a supportive mentor
ResearchChemists discover new lead(II) oxide pigments in the Mona Lisa and the Last Supper
Findings provide new insight into paints used by Leonardo da Vinci
NewseBay faces fines of up to $2 billion for unlawfully selling ‘rolling coal’ devices
Devices that bypass diesel vehicle emission controls allow drivers to emit clouds of black exhaust
NewsDisposable vapes contribute to nearly $10 billion of ‘invisible’ e-waste every year
Small items of electronic waste are not being recycled properly or are ending up in landfill
NewsEU’s carbon border tariff enters first phase
Carbon border adjustment mechanism aims to equalise the carbon price of domestic and imported products
NewsNew Royal Society fellowship to support Black researchers
Scheme may be expanded to other underrepresented groups if it’s successful