Renowned biologist Connie Cepko, recognized for her contributions to vision-related disease research, is handing over her scientific endeavors to a new generation of researchers. Cepko, who holds the title of Bullard Professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Harvard Medical School, will retire on July 31, motivated by a desire to provide opportunities for younger scientists…
Illustrated by Harry Haysom from Ikon Images, Harvard librarians unveil their top 27 summer book picks. Tenzin Dickie of Harvard Library Communications published the list on July 13, 2026, covering categories like Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, and Nonfiction. Among the fiction picks, Richard Russo’s ‘Straight Man’ stands out. It’s a humorous academic farce where…
Robots on city streets are becoming a more familiar sight, yet they are not yet the versatile helpers needed in kitchens or factories. A key hurdle is gathering data, as robots, like humans, learn effectively through experience. Teaching them various actions in different environments is a laborious and time-consuming process. “Using simulation as a training…
Infrared cameras can detect things invisible to the naked eye, like gas leaks from pipelines, chemicals in the air, or heat escaping from buildings. However, advanced infrared light sensing still requires costly and large systems. Researchers at MIT have developed a chip-based optical device capable of dynamically controlling incoming infrared light, functioning as a tunable…
The surge in the use of generative artificial intelligence has led to numerous open-source models being available online, enabling users to tailor them for specific tasks like creating product images in different artistic styles. Unfortunately, these models are also being exploited by malicious individuals to generate illegal content, such as hate speech or child sexual…
Higher education has long been a leader in social change worldwide. As American universities and colleges face challenges regarding their relevance and role, promoting innovation among instructors and students is crucial. Recognizing part-time faculty through instructional grants could drive excellence and alleviate burnout and compassion fatigue. Since 2017, Washington University’s Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS)…
The rapid availability of content today emphasizes the importance of how students think, apply, and develop understanding over time. Recent discussions about tools like the now-defunct AI agent Einstein, which could complete coursework for students, have highlighted academic integrity issues. The concern is less about the tool itself and more about its implications, as it…
