A summer at the MSRP-Bio reveals connections between proteins, people, and passions
Undergraduate Meucci Ilunga spent 10 weeks investigating protein interactions, exploring career options, and making new friends.
Comparing primate vocalizations
Study shows Old World monkeys combine items in speech — but only two and never more, unlike humans.
A comprehensive catalogue of human digestive tract bacteria
Researchers identify nearly 8,000 strains of bacteria, while also clarifying their genetic and metabolic context.
For first time, astronomers catch asteroid in the act of changing color
Asteroid is likely shedding reddish dust, revealing a fresh, blue surface beneath.
New science blooms after star researchers die, study finds
Deaths of prominent life scientists tend to be followed by a surge in highly cited research by newcomers.
MIT’s fleet of autonomous boats can now shapeshift
New capabilities allow “roboats” to change configurations to form pop-up bridges, stages, and other structures.
Robotic thread is designed to slip through the brain’s blood vessels
Magnetically controlled device could deliver clot-reducing therapies in response to stroke or other brain blockages.
MIT engineers build advanced microprocessor out of carbon nanotubes
New approach harnesses the same fabrication processes used for silicon chips, offers key advance toward next-generation computers.
Ultrathin 3-D-printed films convert energy of one form into another
Low-cost “piezoelectric” films produce voltage, could be used for flexible electronic components and more.
Two studies reveal benefits of mindfulness for middle school students
Focusing awareness on the present moment can enhance academic performance and lower stress levels.
What’s the best way to cut vehicle greenhouse-gas emissions?
Study finds that in some locations, lightweight gas-powered cars could have a bigger emissions-reducing impact than electric ones.
A much less invasive way to monitor pressure in the brain
New technique could help doctors determine whether patients are at risk from elevated pressure.
Using CRISPR to program gels with new functions
Smart materials change properties in response to specific DNA sequences; could be used in a variety of devices.
New method classifies brain cells based on electrical signals
Making electrophysiology more informative, team shows how to distinguish four classes of cells by spike waveform.
Study: Climate change could pose danger for Muslim pilgrimage
When the Hajj comes in summertime, in some years it may not be safe for participants to remain outdoors.