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Welcome to NEB's Science Blog, NEBinspired® -
Sharing our passion for science, one story at a time

NEBinspired is a science blog designed to share inspirational stories about trends in the life sciences, lab tips to help you save time, and life lessons to reflect on. Browse our collection of science stories, or filter to find a topic that you are passionate about. From groundbreaking discoveries to sustainable lab techniques and helpful online tools that will aid your experimental design, we have something for everyone. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, not to worry – simply send us a message about topics you would like to see covered.

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How Monarch nucleic acid purification offers sustainability without compromising quality

Posted on Thursday, April 30, 2026 By Iris Martinez, Illustrations by Tasha José

Plastics are an undeniable burden in the life sciences, but scientists can switch to greener, more sustainable products, like Monarch nucleic acid purification kits. In this blog, learn how Monarch offers a more sustainable solution while maintaining high quality and affordability.

Topic: Environment and social responsibility, Tips for the lab

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Monarch butterfly on top of sunflower

Cell-free DNA Synthesis for a Faster Path to RNA and DNA Therapeutics

Posted on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 By Joanne Gibson, Ph.D., Illustrations by Tasha José

Cell-free dbDNA provides a fast, enzymatic method for producing high-quality DNA without bacterial fermentation. By simplifying workflows and reducing impurities, it shortens development timelines and accelerates RNA and DNA therapeutic programs from design to clinic.

Topic: What is Trending in Science

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Closeup of twisted vine with loop

8 tips to Follow When Choosing a Restriction Enzyme for In vitro mRNA Transcription for Vaccine and Therapeutics Production

Posted on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 By New England Biolabs

Originally published in 2021; updated in March 2026

Choosing the right restriction enzyme is a critical first step in in vitro transcription for mRNA vaccine and therapeutic production. This post discusses key factors that influence enzyme choice and explains how careful selection supports efficient IVT, reduces unwanted by‑products, and enables scalable, compliance‑ready mRNA manufacturing.

Topic: What is Trending in Science

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Glass vials for liquid samples

A Universal PCR Annealing Temperature Means Balancing Convenience with Specificity

Posted on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 By Joanne Gibson, Ph.D., Illustrations by Tasha José

Annealing temperature is a critical parameter that can determine PCR specificity and yield. Some workflows benefit from a single thermocycling protocol across numerous primer sets. NEB scientists evaluated the benefits and limitations of using a universal annealing temperature to achieve robust amplification across diverse targets.

 

Topic: Tips for the lab

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Finger pressing setting buttons on thermocycler for PCR, with NEBinspired logo

What to Do After Your Life Science Degree: Post-baccalaureate and Post-doctoral Programs

Posted on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 By Iris Martinez, Illustrations by Tasha José

How do you decide what to do after graduation? This blog post outlines what postbacs, postdocs and internships are, and how the training can help launch a career in life science. 

Topic: Career advice

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Illustration of confused graduate, pathway and floating icons

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