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EXHIBITIONS

Lunchtime: The History of Science on the School Food Tray

Our new exhibition explores the surprising story behind the school lunch. On view now through January 2026.

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President Kennedy stands in front of microphone with Frances Oldham KelseyPresident Kennedy stands in front of microphone with Frances Oldham Kelsey
THE DISAPPEARING SPOON PODCAST

The Woman Who ‘Turned Back a Plague of Old Testament Proportions’

FDA scientist Frances Oldham Kelsey spared thousands of babies from deadly birth defects and revolutionized drug research. But was her legacy all good? It’s a complicated story.

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NEWS

NEH, Open Philanthropy Award Institute More Than $590K in Grants

Funds will support new research projects, including collections archiving and a conference on the history and future of biotechnology.

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DISTILLATIONS MAGAZINE

Picric Acid’s Volatile History

A mutable chemical and our collective choices.

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Beckman Center Now Accepting Applications for 2025–2026 Fellowships

The Institute’s Beckman Center for the History of Chemistry is now accepting applications for our 2025–2026 fellowships. Scholars whose research would benefit from the use of our collections can apply for various long- and short-term programs, including a new $2,500 fellowship at the British Library. The deadline to apply is January 15, 2025.

Collect. Preserve. Interpret. Share.

Through research, storytelling, public programming, and educational outreach, we reveal how science is embedded in our daily lives.

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