Just thinking about a location activates mental maps in the brain
MIT neuroscientists have found that the brain uses the same cognitive representations whether navigating through space physically or mentally.
Researchers use large language models to help robots navigate
The method uses language-based inputs instead of costly visual data to direct a robot through a multistep navigation task.
Making climate models relevant for local decision-makers
A new downscaling method leverages machine learning to speed up climate model simulations at finer resolutions, making them usable on local levels.
New algorithm discovers language just by watching videos
DenseAV, developed at MIT, learns to parse and understand the meaning of language just by watching videos of people talking, with potential applications in multimedia search, language learning, and robotics.
New computer vision method helps speed up screening of electronic materials
The technique characterizes a material’s electronic properties 85 times faster than conventional methods.
Protein study could help researchers develop new antibiotics
Researchers created a water-soluble version of an important bacterial enzyme, which can now be used in drug screens to identify new antibiotics.
Researchers demonstrate the first chip-based 3D printer
Smaller than a coin, this optical device could enable rapid prototyping on the go.
Exotic black holes could be a byproduct of dark matter
In the first quintillionth of a second, the universe may have sprouted microscopic black holes with enormous amounts of nuclear charge, MIT physicists propose.
The unexpected origins of a modern finance tool
Discounting calculations are ubiquitous today — thanks partly to the English clergy who spread them amid turmoil in the 1600s, an MIT scholar shows.
Reducing carbon emissions from long-haul trucks
MIT researchers show a promising plan for using clean-burning hydrogen in place of the diesel fuel now used in most freight-transport trucks.
Mouth-based touchpad enables people living with paralysis to interact with computers
The startup Augmental allows users to operate phones and other devices using their tongue, mouth, and head gestures.
Advocating for science funding on Capitol Hill
During the MIT Science Policy Initiative’s Congressional Visit Days, PhD students and postdocs met with legislators to share expertise and advocate for science agency funding.
New technique reveals how gene transcription is coordinated in cells
By capturing short-lived RNA molecules, scientists can map relationships between genes and the regulatory elements that control them.
Physicists create five-lane superhighway for electrons
The work could lead to ultra-efficient electronics and more.
All in the family
New studies show that caste and ethnic identity play an outsize role in how business interacts with government in developing countries.