© 2026 WEKU
NPR for Central and Eastern Kentucky
Support WEKU!
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Thank you to everyone who has supported WEKU and our 1850 campaign! We are now just 11 away from reaching this goal of 1850 new supporters donating at least $10 a month. Existing supporters can help by increasing their monthly support by $10, and that will count towards the goal. Click here to join the campaign!

Researchers have created a synthetic cell that can adapt and learn survival skills

NPR | By Rob Stein
Published July 2, 2026 at 4:47 AM EDT

Scientists have created the most advanced synthetic cell yet made in a laboratory. They've dubbed it "Spudcell," echoing Sputnik, the first artificial satellite.

Copyright 2026 NPR
Rob Stein
Rob Stein is a correspondent and senior editor on NPR's science desk.
See stories by Rob Stein
Support nonprofit, fact-based public service journalism
WEKU depends on support from those who view and listen to our content. There's no paywall here. Please support WEKU with your donation.
Contribute now
Related Content