2025 was a whirlwind year for scientific headlines. Join us as we explore the top stories that sparked debates, inspired hope, and unfolded unexpected narratives around the globe and in Australia.

A Year of Ruthless Political Shifts and Global Science Struggles

As stated in Scimex, the year was marked by dramatic political interventions in science, particularly due to the Trump Administration’s moves which challenged foundational global health frameworks. With vital partnerships teetering and increasing fears of a shift from evidence-based research, the ripple effects were felt worldwide.

While the statistics painted a grim reality for our planet, they were balanced by significant strides in renewable energy. Although climate extremes pummeled Australia, news of renewables overtaking coal worldwide brought a sigh of relief, indicating a transformative shift in how energy is perceived and consumed.

The Return of Extinct Legends to the Limelight

Thanks to audacious advances in gene-editing spearheaded by Colossal Biosciences, extinct species like the woolly mammoth captured the public’s imagination yet again. While the authenticity of some claims was scrutinized, the conversations have indeed pushed the boundaries of biotech possibilities.

Mitochondrial Milestones: The Birth of ‘Three-Parent’ Babies

Ending years of research, the successful births of mitochondrial DNA transfer babies in the UK signaled a breakthrough in genetic medicine. The journey of these children, representing the fusion of three people’s genetic materials, showcases the potential of science in overcoming hereditary diseases.

Australia’s Social Media Ban and Youth Wellbeing

Australia took a bold step by declaring a social media ban for those under 16, stirring a global conversation on the impact of digital lives on mental health. While the measures raised concerns, they reflect an urgent need to redefine digital engagement for younger generations.

PFAS Woes and Broader Environmental Concerns

The alarming spread of ‘forever chemicals’ across Australia highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive environmental regulation. With these pollutants appearing everywhere, from possum livers to tap water, the narrative underscored a pressing ecological crisis demanding immediate action.

Technological Turmoil and Cybersecurity Crises

The year was not devoid of technological turbulence as Australia faced significant cyber challenges. From Qantas’s data breach to Optus’s network failure, the events prompted a reevaluation of cybersecurity with an urgency that mirrored the growing reliance on digital systems.

DeepSeek’s Entry and the AI Revolution

Amidst an AI revolution, DeepSeek emerged as a disruptive force, highlighting the promise and potential peril of artificial intelligence. As it captivated and confounded users and regulators alike, the tech world was reminded of the challenges of ensuring trust and privacy in AI developments.

Reflecting on 2025, it’s clear that science remains both a beacon of knowledge and a canvas of constant change. From reinvigorating extinct species headlines to revolutionary biotech advances, this year’s stories remind us of the compelling narrative that science continues to craft in our world.