MIT engineers design proteins by their motion, not just their shape
An AI model generates novel proteins based on how they vibrate and move, opening new possibilities for dynamic biomaterials and adaptive therapeutics.
Why solid-state batteries keep short-circuiting
New insights into metallic cracks that harm battery performance could advance the longstanding quest to develop energy-dense solid-state batteries.
Lasers, robots, action: MIT workshop explores Raman spectroscopy
Participants learn how laser “fingerprinting” can help identify materials in fields ranging from law enforcement to art restoration.
Turning extreme heat into large-scale energy storage
Fourth Power, founded by Professor Asegun Henry, is developing thermal batteries for efficiently storing excess electricity from utility grids and power producers.
3 Questions: On the future of AI and the mathematical and physical sciences
Professor Jesse Thaler describes a vision for a two-way bridge between artificial intelligence and the mathematical and physical sciences — one that promises to advance both.
Finding a nanoscale solution to safer spaceflight
Using boron nitride nanotubes, mechanical engineering doctoral student Palak Patel develops materials for space that block dangerous ionizing radiation.
Tackling industry’s burdensome bubble problem
MIT researchers uncovered the physics behind bubble-removing membranes that could improve bioreactors, chemical production, and more.
Exploring materials at the atomic scale
The X-ray diffraction and imaging facility at MIT.nano adds a new tool to support research in a wide variety of disciplines.
Bridging science and society in the emerging bioeconomy
In STS.059 (The Bioeconomy and Society), students explore the social and political factors at work in the biology, biotech, and biological engineering sectors.
3D-printing platform rapidly produces complex electric machines
Overcoming challenges of 3D printing with multiple functional materials, MIT researchers fabricated an electric linear motor in hours.
Accelerating science with AI and simulations
Associate Professor Rafael Gómez-Bombarelli has spent his career applying AI to improve scientific discovery. Now he believes we are at an inflection point.
A quick stretch switches this polymer’s capacity to transport heat
The flexible material could enable on-demand heat dissipation for electronics, fabrics, and buildings.
“Essential” torch heralds the start of the 2026 Winter Olympics
Professor of the practice Carlo Ratti designed this year’s Olympic torch with the ethos and principles he brings to his work at MIT.
Terahertz microscope reveals the motion of superconducting electrons
For the first time, the new scope allowed physicists to observe terahertz “jiggles” in a superconducting fluid.
How generative AI can help scientists synthesize complex materials
MIT researchers’ DiffSyn model offers recipes for synthesizing new materials, enabling faster experimentation and a shorter journey from hypothesis to use.