2024
Researchers draw inspiration from ancient Alexandria to optimize quantum simulations
June 6, 2024
A new algorithm developed at UChicago, drawing inspiration from a famous experiment involving shadows in ancient Alexandria, could help quantum computers more efficiently simulate molecular systems with high accuracy.
What do we know about how the world might end?
June 6, 2024
New Yorker staff writer Rivka Galchen discusses UChicago class Are We Doomed?, cotaught by astrophysicist Daniel Holz. It’s in the interdisciplinary field of existential risk, which studies the threats posed by climate change, nuclear warfare, and artificial intelligence. Listen to the podcast and read the story.
UChicago to partner on $12 million NSF project to ‘decarbonize’ computing
June 6, 2024
Led by UMass Amherst, goal is to explore grid decarbonization and reduce carbon in computing.
Voltage-sensing protein moves in unexpected ways in Anton simulations
June 5, 2024
Malfunction of the proteins that sense voltage changes in our nerve cells underlies a number of human diseases throughout the body. A University of Chicago team used an Anton 2 supercomputer developed by D. E. Shaw Research and hosted at PSC to simulate a voltage-sensing protein from a primitive animal to learn how the sensor part of the protein behaves.
Could spraying sea salt into the clouds cool the planet?
June 5, 2024
An experiment in Alameda, CA, highlights the controversy surrounding research on altering the environment to cool the planet. GS Prof. David Keith comments.
No one really understands clouds
June 5, 2024
Atmospheric scientist Da Yang comments on "one of the greatest climate mysteries left."
PELICAN takes flight
June 5, 2024
A novel algorithm that harnesses math and physics principles offers enhanced pattern recognition capabilities.
UChicago scientists invent “living bioelectronics” that can sense and heal skin
June 4, 2024
A flexible, adaptable, storable patch combines bacteria and sensors to interface with the body.
Flight turbulence is getting worse—what to know
May 29, 2024
Following the Singapore Airlines turbulence incident, climate and aviation experts provide insight into worsening turbulence trends. Geophysical Sciences Prof. Noboru Nakamura comments.
Background check websites often fail to locate criminal records
May 29, 2024
NBC ran background checks on seven Chicago men convicted of serious crimes. In several cases, the paid background check sites we used couldn't find any record of them - criminal or otherwise. Computer scientist Marshini Chetty weighs in.
Atop a Chilean mountain, undergraduate students make cutting-edge astronomical observations
May 29, 2024
UChicago students conduct research at Magellan telescopes as part of new field course. This story is part of a series called UChicago Class Visits, spotlighting transformative classroom experiences and unique learning opportunities offered at UChicago.
Unveiling attention receipts: tangible reflections on digital consumption
May 29, 2024
PhD student Anup Sathya and Assistant Professor Ken Nakagaki introduce Attention Receipts, a tangible solution aimed at increasing awareness of digital consumption habits and navigating the complexities of technology's impact on human agency. Through this innovation, they seek to foster a culture of introspection in the digital age.
Scientists may have found the spot where our supermassive black hole “vents”
May 29, 2024
Chandra X-ray telescope reveals hot gas traveling along a “chimney” as it’s ejected.
Dickinson Lab maps RNA molecules with novel proximity labeling method
May 29, 2024
The Dickinson Lab introduced a proximity labeling method to map RNA molecules within cells. This technique, developed by graduate student Shubhasree Pani and Dr. Tian Qiu, enhances the understanding of RNA functions and cellular organization.
2024 Arthur L. Kelly Faculty Prize for Exceptional Service in the Physical Sciences Division
May 22, 2024
Congratulations to the 2024 recipient of the Arthur L. Kelly Faculty Prize: John Carlstrom!