Scientists anticipate significant advancements across several key areas in 2026, ranging from artificial intelligence and gene editing to space exploration and the impact of political policies on research funding. A recent Nature Podcast highlighted these upcoming developments, offering a glimpse into the scientific landscape of the year.

One of the most anticipated areas of progress is in the field of artificial intelligence. Researchers are exploring small-scale AI models as potential alternatives to Large Language Models (LLMs). These smaller models, while not possessing the vast data processing capabilities of LLMs, are showing promise in outperforming them in specific reasoning tasks. The shift towards smaller, more focused AI models could have significant implications for resource consumption and accessibility, potentially democratizing AI development and deployment. Experts suggest that these models could be more energy-efficient and easier to train, making them a viable option for applications where LLMs are not necessary or practical.

In the realm of medicine, 2026 is expected to see continued progress in gene editing therapies. Clinical trials are underway to assess the efficacy of gene editing techniques in treating rare human disorders. These trials build upon earlier successes, such as personalized gene editing that helped infants with previously incurable conditions. While the potential of gene editing is immense, researchers are proceeding cautiously, carefully evaluating the safety and long-term effects of these therapies. The ethical considerations surrounding gene editing remain a central focus, with ongoing discussions about equitable access and the potential for unintended consequences.

Space exploration will also be in the spotlight, with a sample collection mission from Phobos, one of Mars' moons, planned for 2026. This mission aims to gather samples from the Martian moon and return them to Earth for analysis. Scientists hope that these samples will provide valuable insights into the origin and evolution of the solar system, as well as the potential for past or present life on Mars. The mission represents a significant international collaboration, involving scientists and engineers from multiple countries.

Political factors are also expected to play a significant role in shaping the scientific landscape of 2026. Changes to US policy enacted by the Trump administration in 2025 have already had a noticeable impact on science, including grant cuts, arrests, and layoffs. These policy shifts have created a tumultuous environment for researchers, forcing them to adapt to new funding priorities and regulatory frameworks. The long-term consequences of these changes are still unfolding, but they underscore the importance of sustained government support for scientific research.