3 Questions: The pros and cons of synthetic data in AI
Artificially created data offer benefits from cost savings to privacy preservation, but their limitations require careful planning and evaluation, Kalyan Veeramachaneni says.
Soft materials hold onto “memories” of their past, for longer than previously thought
New findings could help manufacturers design gels, lotions, or even paving materials that last longer and perform more predictably.
3 Questions: On biology and medicine’s “data revolution”
Professor Caroline Uhler discusses her work at the Schmidt Center, thorny problems in math, and the ongoing quest to understand some of the most complex interactions in biology.
MIT researchers develop AI tool to improve flu vaccine strain selection
VaxSeer uses machine learning to predict virus evolution and antigenicity, aiming to make vaccine selection more accurate and less reliant on guesswork.
New method could monitor corrosion and cracking in a nuclear reactor
By directly imaging material failure in 3D, this real-time technique could help scientists improve reactor safety and longevity.
Simpler models can outperform deep learning at climate prediction
New research shows the natural variability in climate data can cause AI models to struggle at predicting local temperature and rainfall.
Can large language models figure out the real world?
New test could help determine if AI systems that make accurate predictions in one area can understand it well enough to apply that ability to a different area.
New laser “comb” can enable rapid identification of chemicals with extreme precision
The ultrabroadband infrared frequency comb could be used for chemical detection in portable spectrometers or high-resolution remote sensors.
Researchers glimpse the inner workings of protein language models
A new approach can reveal the features AI models use to predict proteins that might make good drug or vaccine targets.
A shape-changing antenna for more versatile sensing and communication
You can adjust the frequency range of this durable, inexpensive antenna by squeezing or stretching its structure.
A new way to test how well AI systems classify text
As large language models increasingly dominate our everyday lives, new systems for checking their reliability are more important than ever.
The art and science of being an MIT teaching assistant
Training an ever-growing percentage of MIT’s students, the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science relies heavily on dedicated and passionate TAs.
Surprisingly diverse innovations led to dramatically cheaper solar panels
New research can identify opportunities to drive down the cost of renewable energy systems, batteries, and many other technologies.
Building a lifeline for family caregivers across the US
Ianacare, co-founded by Steven Lee ’97, MEng ’98, equips caregivers with the resources, networks, and tools they need to support loved ones.
Eco-driving measures could significantly reduce vehicle emissions
New research shows automatically controlling vehicle speeds to mitigate traffic at intersections can cut carbon emissions between 11 and 22 percent.