We spotlight some of the most interesting academic studies published in early 2018, which delve into topics such as fake news, audience analytics, populism, virtual reality and fact-checking.

Foodborne illness can hide in our favorite comestibles. Luckily, researchers are developing tools to identify outbreaks and mitigate risks.

Research on consumer attitudes toward digital privacy and the practices of tech companies that shape data collection and use policies.

A new online course from First Draft -- our partner across the hall at Harvard’s Shorenstein Center -- helps journalists use free tools to track down, source and verify information they find online.

Smartphones are distracting. New research shows this distraction can lead to boredom, antisocial behavior and unhappiness.

We spotlight 10 of the most compelling academic studies published in 2017, which delve into meaty topics such as venture-backed startups, artificial intelligence and the spread of disinformation.

This study, published in Journalism in 2017, examines how journalism branding efforts affect the personal identities of reporters, editors and columnists.

This collection of research offers insights into the impacts of fake news, including fake Twitter images, and how people use the internet to spread rumors and misinformation.

This collection of academic research examines the issue of bullying and child suicide. We included research that looks specifically at suicide and bullying among sexual-minority youth, including gay and lesbian students.

Almost everyone has a smartphone. They can be distracting. But new research shows they may also impair our ability to think straight even when we’re not using them.