MIT chemists design impact-resistant plastics
Introducing weaker bonds into polystyrene and rubber helps these materials dissipate energy, making them more resistant to destructive forces.
MIT researchers teach AI models to interpret charts
The new ChartNet training dataset could improve the accuracy of vision-language models that help analyze business trends or interpret scientific figures.
Ultrasound-based pacemaker noninvasively steadies the heart
The new design could offer a surgery-free alternative to traditional cardiac implants.
A plan to preserve wetlands without stopping development
Study shows the tradeoff between conservation and growth is less stark with a locally adjusted policy featuring both tradeable offsets and taxes.
New propulsion system could make tiny satellites both fast and fuel-efficient
For satellites as small as a briefcase, getting around in space just got a whole lot easier.
Enzymes that assemble into droplets can speed up cellular reactions
MIT biologists find highly concentrated droplets can help cells keep enzymes organized and control growth signals.
New laboratory at MIT aims to advance quantum research for the nation
The Quantum Systems Laboratory will catalyze quantum innovation and be open to government, academic, and industry researchers.
MIT researchers develop a low-cost technique to get lithium out of rocks
The low-temperature process could unlock cleaner lithium from America’s abundant hard rock while minimizing waste.
A new sensor could enable earlier detection of bladder cancer
Using a catheter coated with carbon nanotubes, researchers can detect biomarkers produced by cancer cells in the bladder.
Media Advisory: MIT to establish regional quantum hub
With $25 million investment from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, MIT to build a new shared-use facility to serve as a statewide quantum toolbox.
Brighter MRI signals
New MRI sensors developed at MIT sensitively detect target molecules in the brain and body.
MIT students study plasma physics beneath Alaska’s aurora
Student-led expeditions use distributed instruments to observe auroral structures and probe space plasma in real-world conditions.
The rules neurons follow to make sense of what we see
Brain cells take in many signals through thousands of circuit connections. A new study discerns the rules that turn inputs into a functional arrangement for neurons that process vision.
Some democracies are struggling to ensure safe drinking water
Countries with developing economies provide at least some public water, but safety may lag because it’s less visible, researchers say.
Technology usually creates jobs for young, skilled workers. Will AI do the same?
A new study of the postwar U.S. shows which kinds of workers historically filled new tech-enabled jobs.