Two from MIT named 2026 Knight-Hennessy Scholars

The prestigious fellowship funds graduate studies at Stanford University.

Building “hardcore” advanced machines

In 2.72/2.270 (Elements of Mechanical Design), “if it doesn’t break the laws of physics, it’s possible; you just have to figure out how to engineer it.”

From technical solution to systems change: Tackling the problem of plastic waste

Akorfa Dagadu, an MIT senior in chemical engineering, learns the importance of community-engaged research and innovation through the PKG Center for Social Impact.

3Q: Why science is curiosity on a mission

VP for Communications Alfred Ironside describes how a new initiative from MIT seeks to remind Americans of the value and power of curiosity-driven research.

“I have yet to meet a professor that cares more for their students”

Associate Professor Daniel “Danny” Hidalgo, a political scientist who studies elections, democracy, and political behavior in Latin America, is honored as “Committed to Caring” for graduate student mentorship.

Elazer Edelman receives the 2026-2027 Killian Award

The professor of medical engineering and science is honored for medical research that has led to better treatments for cardiovascular disease.

MIT chemists discover and isolate a new boron-oxygen molecule

The discovery of dioxaborirane could expand the chemistry of boron-based reagents, providing new tools for oxidation reactions in synthesis and materials science.

Researchers “reprogram” materials by quickly rearranging their atoms

A new method for precisely moving columns of individual atoms within a material could give rise to exotic quantum properties.

A new approach to cancer vaccination yields more powerful T cells

Using immune-remodeling mRNA molecules, researchers generated T cells that can slow tumor growth and, in some cases, eradicate tumors.

3 Questions: Shedding light on why power grids go dark

Pablo Duenas-Martinez, a MITEI research scientist, describes the “death spiral” of events that caused the 12-hour Iberian peninsula power outage in 2025, and five lessons learned.