Capturing energy from the sun
MIT investigators are inspired by a deep-sea bacterium that is able to harvest tiny amounts of incoming solar energy with exquisite efficiency.
Putting the squeeze on cells
By deforming cells, researchers can deliver RNA, proteins and nanoparticles for many applications.
Science students hold design-thinking workshop
Program aims to help students gain perspective on new methodologies, improve overall research skills.
Microbiologists eavesdrop on the hidden lives of microbes
Scientists track ocean microbe populations in their natural habitat to create a ‘day in the life’ montage.
Rare earth oxides make water-repellent surfaces that last
Ceramic forms of hydrophobic materials could be far more durable than existing coatings or surface treatments.
Research update: Multiple steps toward the ‘quantum singularity’
Over three days in December, four research groups announced progress on a quantum-computing proposal made two years ago by MIT researchers.
Possible role for Huntington’s gene discovered
Mutant forms of the gene disrupt chemical modifications that control access to genes necessary for normal brain cell function.
Study finds a new culprit for epileptic seizures
Discovery that some seizures arise in glial cells could offer new targets for epilepsy treatment.
MIT students attend international talks on mercury
Students will blog and tweet about their experiences in Geneva, Switzerland.
New material harvests energy from water vapor
Polymer film could be used in artificial muscle and to power micro- and nanoelectronic devices.
Chips that can steer light
Record-setting ‘optical phased arrays’ could lead to better laser rangefinders, smaller medical-imaging devices and even holographic TVs.
Guaranteed delivery — in ad hoc networks
A new algorithm for message dissemination in decentralized networks is faster than its predecessors but, unlike them, guarantees delivery.
Tiny tools help advance medical discoveries
MIT researchers are designing tools to analyze cells at the microscale.
Using prizes to spur innovation
MIT Professor Fiona Murray produces concrete guidelines on designing and executing Grand Innovation Prizes.
Research update: Jumping droplets help heat transfer
Scalable nanopatterned surfaces designed by MIT researchers could make for more efficient power generation and desalination.