All the contributors were personally recommended by MBS editorial or advisory board members as young scientists whose work has the potential to influence the future directions of these fields. All submissions were subjected to full peer review and the result is an issue showcasing work in some of the most fascinating and important areas of biology.

We intend to run future issues of this kind so watch this space! Finally, MBS extends a big thank-you to all the Emerging Investigators themselves for making this such an excellent collection of papers. We wish them every success in their future careers and - in the words of Tom Kodadek, the MBS editorial board chair - 'Clearly the future of this exciting area of biology is in good hands!'

And watch out for a related theme issue from ChemSocRev in July; issue 7 will be a thematic issue examining the interface of chemistry with biology.

Leading the way in miniaturisation, Lab on a Chip has teamed up with Corning Incorporated to again host the Pioneers in Miniaturisation Prize. Spanning a variety of disciplines, this prize recognises outstanding achievements and significant contributions by a younger scientist to the understanding and advancement of micro- and nanoscale science.

As a leading-edge science and technology organisation, Corning Incorporated is keen to reward, recognise and encourage the development of miniaturisation in the chemical and biological sciences and promotes interdisciplinary research required for the most significant innovations in this area.

The recipient of the award will receive a US$5000 bursary to support their continued contribution to the field. A deadline for applications has been set for 31st August 2008. Following the final decision, which will be made by committee, a winner will be announced at the TAS 2008 conference, in San Diego, CA, US.

In addition, join the thousands of listeners who enjoy the Chemistry World monthly podcast and you could be the lucky winner of an iPod. It's simple: listen to the latest episode of the monthly podcast, answer our short feedback survey and we'll enter you into our prize draw.