Tiny sand grains trigger massive glacial surges
New model answers longstanding question of how these sudden flows happen; may expand understanding of Antarctic ice sheets.
Newly observed phenomenon could lead to new quantum devices
Exotic states called Kohn anomalies could offer clues to why some materials have the electronic properties they do.
Seven from MIT win 2020 Hertz Fellowships
Award recognizes scholars who pursue graduate studies focusing on “bold, risk-taking research.”
QS ranks MIT the world’s No. 1 university for 2020-21
Ranked at the top for the ninth straight year, the Institute also places first in 12 subject areas.
Serious science at home
Children Helping Science, co-led by Professor Laura Schulz, brings research to families, and families to research.
Unlocking the secrets of a plastic-eater
Graduate student Linda Zhong and professor of biology Anthony Sinskey are studying the plastic-devouring enzyme PETase as a way to improve recycling.
Research highlights immune molecule’s complex role in Huntington’s disease
Knocking out the immune cytokine IL-6 exacerbates symptoms in HD model mice, affects neural connection genes.
MIT’s first online Commencement, as seen through social media
Though the MIT community was spread around the world due to Covid-19, graduates and their families celebrated magic moments through social posts.
Citizen scientists spot closest young brown dwarf disk yet
Discovery made through the Disk Detective project could help the search for new planets.
Study: Reflecting sunlight to cool the planet will cause other global changes
Solar geoengineering proposals will weaken extratropical storm tracks in both hemispheres, scientists find.
Machine learning helps map global ocean communities
An MIT-developed technique could aid in tracking the ocean’s health and productivity.
Mathematics department recognized for STEM student enrichment program
Popular diversity and enrichment outreach program marks 10th anniversary with award as it adapts to Covid-19.
3 Questions: Seychelle Vos on detangling DNA
An unconventional geneticist uses cryogenic electron microscopy and crystallography to understand gene expression and cell fate.
New technology enables fast protein synthesis
Automated tabletop machine could accelerate the development of novel drugs to treat cancer and other diseases.
Algorithm quickly simulates a roll of loaded dice
Approach for generating numbers at random may help analyses of complex systems, from Earth’s climate to financial markets.