How the brain recognizes objects
A new computational model sheds light on the workings of the human visual system and could help advance artificial-intelligence research, too.
3 Questions: Noelle Selin on curbing mercury
As U.N. negotiations begin this week on a global mercury treaty, an MIT atmospheric scientist explains the challenges ahead.
Operating in orbit
Astronaut and alumnus Bobby Satcher recounts his experience as the first orthopedic surgeon in space
Explained: Knightian uncertainty
The economic crisis has revived an old philosophical idea about risk and uncertainty. But what is it, exactly?
Sylvia T. Ceyer named head of Department of Chemistry
The specialist in surface science will succeed Timothy Swager, effective July 1
3 Questions: John Marshall on the Gulf of Mexico oil spill
An MIT oceanographer discusses why ‘we have never had a spill like this’ — and what that means for cleanup efforts.
Pooling MIT’s resources to ‘rethink’ water
Workshop assesses scope of water research currently underway at Institute, eyes work that lies ahead.
More precise food-allergy diagnoses
It turns out that many people mistakenly think they have food allergies. A new technology aims to erase all doubt.
Explained: The Carnot Limit
Long before the nature of heat was understood, the fundamental limit of efficiency of heat-based engines was determined
A look back in time
By linking the odd geometry of bacterial growths to photosynthesis, researchers may have a new way to study Earth’s oldest fossils.
Machines that learn better
New math will make it much easier to build machine-learning systems that tackle a wider range of problems.
Explained: Monte Carlo simulations
Mathematical technique lets scientists make estimates in a probabilistic world
New water-splitting catalyst found
Research by MIT’s Dan Nocera expands the list of potential electrode materials that could be used to store energy.
Chisholm receives Agassiz Medal from National Academy of Sciences
MIT professor selected for her pioneering studies of marine organisms