Taming “information hazards” in synthetic biology research
Cryptography techniques to screen synthetic DNA could help prevent the creation of dangerous pathogens, argues Professor Kevin Esvelt.
To improve anesthesia, focus on neuroscience and nociception, experts urge
A principled approach can lead to less need for drugs, especially opioids, Emery Brown and colleagues say.
Movement-enhancing exoskeletons may impair decision making
In lab experiments, soldiers wearing exoskeletons designed to improve physical performance reacted more slowly to visual cues.
Detecting fake news at its source
Machine learning system aims to determine if an information outlet is accurate or biased.
Model helps robots navigate more like humans do
In simulations, robots move through new environments by exploring, observing, and drawing from learned experiences.
Takian Fakhrul: Paving “one-way streets” for light inside photonic devices
PhD student designs materials that help guide light within silicon chips, and seeks to advance materials science in her home country of Bangladesh.
Chemists discover unexpected enzyme structure
Metal cluster in enzyme that breaks down carbon dioxide can switch between two different shapes.
A new way to manufacture small batches of biopharmaceuticals on demand
System can be rapidly reconfigured to produce a variety of protein drugs.
Beach sand ripples can be fingerprints for ancient weather conditions
Experiments show shifting ripple patterns can signal times of environmental flux.
Software finds the best way to stick a Mars landing
Program users can tinker with landing and path planning scenarios to identify optimal landing sites for Mars rovers.
Honing quantum sensing
PhD student David Layden in the Quantum Engineering Group has a new approach to spatial noise filtering that boosts development of ultra-sensitive quantum sensors.
Developing new ways to advance copper production
U.S. Department of Energy grant will support the Allanore lab's advancement of copper production from sulfur-based minerals.
How Earth sheds heat into space
New insights into the role of water vapor may help researchers predict how the planet will respond to warming.
A big new home for the ultrasmall
MIT.nano building, the largest of its kind, will usher in a new age of nanoscale advancements.