What really killed the dinosaurs?
Before an asteroid wiped out the dinosaurs, Earth experienced a short burst of intense volcanism.
Picower neuroscientists reveal fundamental discovery about cortical neurons
Inhibitory neuron functionality is not an immutable property of cortical cells, but a consequence of more complex network dynamics.
John D. Joannopoulos wins 2015 Aneesur Rahman Prize for Computational Physics
Eminent condensed matter theorist honored by American Physical Society for "spearheading the development of ab-initio nano-photonics."
Detecting gases wirelessly and cheaply
New sensor can transmit information on hazardous chemicals or food spoilage to a smartphone.
A renaissance in metals
Materials Day Symposium highlights breakthroughs in simulation methods, manufacturing techniques, and improved alloys.
3 Questions: Ben Weiss on the lunar dynamo
The moon’s molten, churning core likely once generated a dynamo.
Small volcanoes make a dent in global warming
Study shows that the effects of smaller eruptions have been underestimated in climate models.
Improving media coverage of climate science
New web-based Climate Feedback application provides a method for scientists and journalists to improve the accuracy of climate science reporting.
Losing air
New study finds a barrage of small impacts likely erased much of the Earth’s primordial atmosphere.
Transient contacts
Ibrahim Cissé is unraveling the mystery of DNA transcription, one molecule at a time.
Seeking answers from a mysterious parasite
Newly tenured biologist Jeroen Saeij wants to know what makes Toxoplasma gondii so unpredictable.
Plasma shield
Researchers find that Earth’s “plasmaspheric hiss” protects against a harmful radiation belt.
Claude Canizares to step down as vice president
Reif: “For 40 years MIT has benefited from Claude’s exceptional commitment and service.”