At Research Features, we strive to showcase leading research from around the globe and make it accessible to all. This issue does just that. We’re excited to celebrate some of the pioneers driving the latest discoveries and innovations in research.

Rigorous statistical insight has many important applications, from deep learning algorithms to everyday consumer data. Research Features spoke with Professor Hansheng Wang, director of the Business Analytics Programme at Guanghua School of Management, Peking University. Wang explains more about the relationship between statistics and deep learning, and about his own serendipitous entry into the profession.

Elsewhere in this excitingly varied issue, we learn about a new combination treatment for late-stage breast cancer, and about how breast cancer survival rates are improved through the provision of integrative oncology. We also learn about important research undertaken by Professor Jamie Woodward into microplastic contamination of riverbeds.

We hope you enjoy learning about the latest research in this issue as much as we did.