MIT News

MIT mathematicians solve age-old spaghetti mystery

It’s nearly impossible to break a dry spaghetti noodle into only two pieces. A new MIT study shows how and why it can be done.

Novel optics for ultrafast cameras create new possibilities for imaging

Technique can capture a scene at multiple depths with one shutter click — no zoom lens needed.

In neutron stars, protons may do the heavy lifting

The positively charged particles may have an outsize influence on the properties of neutron stars and other neutron-rich objects.

Study suggests glaucoma may be an autoimmune disease

Unexpected findings show that the body’s own immune system destroys retinal cells.

Artificial intelligence model “learns” from patient data to make cancer treatment less toxic

Machine-learning system determines the fewest, smallest doses that could still shrink brain tumors.

Risk, failure, and living your life: The economics of being an early-career scientist

Doctoral student Ryan Hill studies factors that influence researchers’ professional paths, while lending his voice to support student families.

Introducing the latest in textiles: Soft hardware

Researchers incorporate optoelectronic diodes into fibers and weave them into washable fabrics.

President Reif urges “farsighted national strategy” to address China competition

New York Times op-ed by MIT president says a national focus on innovation and research is more effective than only playing defense on trade practices.

Sensor could help doctors select effective cancer therapy

Hydrogen peroxide-sensing molecule reveals whether chemotherapy drugs are having their intended effects.

A targeted approach to treating glioma

With new method, surgeons would remove tumor, then implant microparticles that attack remaining cancer cells.

Meet the women shaping science and engineering in Saudi Arabia

Through the Ibn Khaldun Fellowship for Saudi Arabian Women, postdoctoral scientists and engineers develop their professional skills during a one-year stay at MIT.

How Africans developed scientific knowledge of the deadly tsetse fly

New book by MIT Associate Professor Clapperton Chakanetsa Mavhunga explores science in action in Africa.

On-chip optical filter processes wide range of light wavelengths

Silicon-based system offers smaller, cheaper alternative to other “broadband” filters; could improve a variety of photonic devices.

Boeing will be Kendall Square Initiative’s first major tenant

New research presence will serve to advance innovation in the aerospace industry and shape East Campus gateway.

China could face deadly heat waves due to climate change

One of the world’s most densely populated regions may push the boundaries of habitability by the end of this century, study finds.

Seth Mnookin brings bestselling author’s touch to teaching science journalism

Science “pushes me to constantly go out of my comfort zone,” says director of MIT’s science writing program.

MIT launches new homepage and daily email

3Q: Richard Milner on a new U.S. particle accelerator

Proposal for powerful particle collider gets National Academies’ go-ahead.

Environmental regulation in a polarized culture

Doctoral student Parrish Bergquist investigates how politics affects environmental decision-making.

Cell-sized robots can sense their environment

Made of electronic circuits coupled to minute particles, the devices could flow through intestines or pipelines to detect problems.

Doctors rely on more than just data for medical decision making

Computer scientists find that physicians’ “gut feelings” influence how many tests they order for patients.

Light-controlled polymers can switch between sturdy and soft

New material reversibly changes its structure in response to different wavelengths of light.

X-ray data may be first evidence of a star devouring a planet

New data may explain star’s mysterious dimming.

Study finds climate determines shapes of river basins

Results may help identify ancient climates on Earth or other planets.