Enabling small language models to solve complex reasoning tasks
The “self-steering” DisCIPL system directs small models to work together on tasks with constraints, like itinerary planning and budgeting.
Department
Brain and Cognitive Sciences
School of Science welcomed new faculty in 2024
Eleven new professors join the departments of Biology; Brain and Cognitive Sciences; Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences; Mathematics; and Physics.
MIT study shows how vision can be rebooted in adults with amblyopia
Temporarily anesthetizing the retina briefly reverts the activity of the visual system to that observed in early development and enables growth of responses to the amblyopic (“lazy”) eye.
When it comes to language, context matters
MIT researchers identified three cognitive skills that we use to infer what someone really means.
Too sick to socialize: How the brain and immune system promote staying in bed
MIT researchers discover how an immune system molecule triggers neurons to shut down social behavior in mice modeling infection.
Astrocyte diversity across space and time
A new atlas charts the diversity of an influential cell type in the brains of mice and marmosets.
Staying stable
Whether they walk on two, four, or six legs, animals maintain stability by monitoring their body position and correcting errors with every step.
The cost of thinking
MIT neuroscientists find a surprising parallel in the ways humans and new AI models solve complex problems.
Symposium examines the neural circuits that keep us alive and well
Seven speakers from around the country convened at MIT to describe some of the latest research on the neural mechanisms that we need to survive.
The science of consciousness
Through the MIT Consciousness Club, professors Matthias Michel and Earl Miller are exploring how neurological activity gives rise to human experience.
Study suggests 40Hz sensory stimulation may benefit some Alzheimer’s patients for years
Five volunteers received 40Hz stimulation for around two years after an early-stage clinical study. Those with late-onset Alzheimer’s performed better on assessments than Alzheimer’s patients outside the trial.
MIT researchers invent new human brain model to enable disease research, drug discovery
Cultured from induced pluripotent stem cells, “miBrains” integrate all major brain cell types and model brain structures, cellular interactions, activity, and pathological features.
Study: Identifying kids who need help learning to read isn’t as easy as A, B, C
While most states mandate screenings to guide early interventions for children struggling with reading, many teachers feel underprepared to administer and interpret them.
Neural activity helps circuit connections mature into optimal signal transmitters
Scientists identified how circuit connections in fruit flies tune to the right size and degree of signal transmission capability. Understanding this could lead to a way to tweak abnormal signal transmission in certain disorders.
Blending neuroscience, AI, and music to create mental health innovations
Media Lab PhD student Kimaya Lecamwasam researches how music can shape well-being.