The Story
“The Wild Science of Water Bears”
http://kmkowalski.weebly.com/uploads/7/5/5/8/7558289/tardigradesmusemayjune2017.pdf
by Kathiann Kowalski
Muse, June 2017
The Pitch
Dear Johanna:
Scientists have recently finished sequencing the tardigrade genome, and a study being published this month reveals a gene whose protein protects against damage to DNA. That finding could help explain why tiny water bears are so tough. They can survive in extreme environments — even in the vacuum of outer space!
My proposed feature for MUSE’s May/June 2017 issue on What Water Knows will explore what this and other research show about tardigrades. In addition to showing how cool these creatures can be, the article will let kids see why water bear research matters.
Suggested length for the feature is about 1,200 words, including sidebars. Thanks for considering the idea. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Kathi /s/
Kathiann M. Kowalski
