In 1567, Spanish soldiers followed Indian trails and built a fort in the middle of the village of Joara, in what would become the North Carolina foothills. Indians eventually burned down the fort and killed the soldiers. The location remained a mystery until archaeologists found indisputable evidence of the first inland European settlement in the Carolinas.

The world's oceans, the creatures that live in the sea, and the climate that is influenced by the ocean are all connected. North Carolina researchers are studying how melting Antarctic glaciers will affect the Atlantic Ocean and the state's coastal resources.

Science helps create technical textiles for clothes that protect first responders, repel bacteria, and keep us cool and dry.

Scientists at the UNC Coastal Studies Institute are testing new technologies that would harness the power of the ocean to create new sources of energy. Ongoing studies look at the energy potential and feasibility of generating energy from wind, waves, and currents.

Scientists, with the help of students across NC, launch first radio tracking program of egrets to study behavior and habitat, and better protect the birds.

A biotech start-up at UNC Charlotte could revolutionize how we take medicines by using soybean seeds. Scientists are inserting the DNA from viruses in the protein rich seeds of soybeans. They believe eating the modified soybeans can turn the human immune system in the gut on or off against various diseases.

Mary-Dell Chilton's DNA discoveries launched the field of genetically modifying plants to ward off pests, use less water, and improve yields. Supporters say it could help feed the world. Opponents say it's not safe, threatening the environment and people in ways that may not be known yet. By discovering the mechanism of DNA transfer, Chilton bestowed that power to humans.

Because there is always more than one solution to a problem, a world-renowned snake expert and venomologist has joined the faculty at ECU and launched a search for an alternative anti-venom, the traditional remedy for snakebites.

With new understanding about the structures of human organs, scientists are growing miniature human livers, hearts and kidneys and linking them together with a blood substitute, to evaluate the effects of new drugs.

Researchers with the Appalachian State University Human Performance Institute are providing new insights into how even a small amount of exercise can cut the risk of disease in half.