https://clay.cam/feed/University Clay News RSS Feed - University specific feed https://clay.cam/rss-info.html Clay RSS Generator v1.0 Tue, 21 Jul 2026 04:30:18 +0000 https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/a-century-of-the-sat/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 13:59:41 +0000 How test of college readiness has changed with trends in education policy University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/a-century-of-the-sat/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 13:59:41 +0000 How test of college readiness has changed with trends in education policy University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/why-you-should-care-about-first-new-fda-approved-sunscreen-ingredient-in-20-years/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 13:55:10 +0000 HMS dermatology professor Hillary Tsibris explains why you should care University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/why-you-should-care-about-first-new-fda-approved-sunscreen-ingredient-in-20-years/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 13:55:10 +0000 HMS dermatology professor Hillary Tsibris explains why you should care University/Harvard_Gazette https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/20/1140655/ai-biases-hiring-humans/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 08:39:01 +0000 The next time you apply for a job, AI may screen your résumé before any human sees it. But there’s good reason to question whether AI will judge you fairly. Researchers already know that LLMs pick up human biases from their training data. New research suggests that LLMs can also develop their own biases from… University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/20/1140655/ai-biases-hiring-humans/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 08:39:01 +0000 The next time you apply for a job, AI may screen your résumé before any human sees it. But theres good reason to question whether AI will judge you fairly. Researchers already know that LLMs pick up human biases from their training data. New research suggests that LLMs can also develop their own biases from University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/how-nus-music-graduates-found-their-rhythm/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 09:48:39 +0800 As they prepare to take the stage at Commencement 2026, three music graduates from the Class of 2026 look back on how NUS empowered them to bridge disciplines, push musical boundaries and enrich Singapore’s arts scene. Huang Chao Hung: Of data science and musical numbers While Huang Chao Hung, a double bassist with the NUS Chinese Orchestra (NUSCO), enjoyed composing multimedia “diaries” featuring his own synthesised music and drawings, he didn’t always hit all the right notes. His friend had told him, “You have good intuition, but you don’t have strong training.” This prompted the Data Science and Analytics major to take up music courses at the NUS Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (YST) , such as “Introduction to Classical Composition” and “Classical Styles and Romantic Spirits”. When NUS launched its Second Major in Performing Arts at YST as part of its Arts for All initiative to increase student participation in the arts and enhance interdisciplinary learning, he seized the opportunity. “Music theory has always intrigued me. Though data science and music seem unrelated, both involve breaking down complex concepts into understandable ideas,” shared Chao Hung, 26. For his YST capstone project in 2026, he took on multiple roles: as producer, composer, performer and script writer. The multimedia performance explored loneliness through instruments including the violin, double bass and piano, with visuals he had drawn projected on screen. “I wanted to tell people that if you’re going through a phase of loneliness, you are not alone,” said Chao Hung. He took the same storytelling approach when he organised NUSCO’s annual concert “In Bloom” in 2024 as a student leader. Rather than simply performing pieces, he led his team to create a narrative journey using seeds as a metaphor for people who blossom despite life’s challenges, complete with original graphics and synchronised projections. Throughout his time leading NUS arts initiatives, Chao Hung found mentors in Ms Sing Mohli, Deputy Head of the Centre for the Arts at the NUS Office of Student Affairs and Mr Moses Gay, NUSCO conductor. “Working with them brought me to a higher level from just a student who follows instructions to someone who creates with a clear purpose and strategy,” he explained. Beyond NUS, he performs with the Singapore Foochow Association and The Purple Symphony, an inclusive orchestra comprising musicians with and without disabilities. “It’s meaningful to play with people from different backgrounds and age groups who enjoy music like I do – hearing their stories and sharing mine,” he said. Chao Hung will be graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics with Honours (Highest Distinction) and will notably be among the first batch of graduates from the Second Major in Performing Arts course. He plans to continue his twin passions after completing a Master’s in Data Science and Machine Learning at NUS, aiming for a public sector career while pursuing music. “I want to use data science to help citizens, while continuing to create and perform music that connects people.” Toh Chang Hui: Trombonist has a blast giving back to the community Toh Chang Hui was set to graduate with a diploma in Mechanical Engineering when he made the bold decision to change course. The reason: He had just secured a scholarship from YST to pursue a Bachelor of Music . It was a dream come true. “I was already in the Singapore National Youth Orchestra (SNYO) and knew I wanted to do music one day. I think I spent more time in the youth orchestra than in polytechnic studying,” said the 24-year-old wryly. At YST, Chang Hui discovered that music education extended beyond performance. His Music, Collaboration & Production major required him to conceptualise and execute independent projects – developing skills in ideation, planning and community engagement. Having received abundant support from YST and SNYO during his musical journey, he felt compelled to pay it forward. This shaped much of his time at YST, where he took on projects that created opportunities for young and developing musicians to perform, learn from professionals and grow as a community. Amongst them was a YST Trombone Weekend in 2023, which he organised to allow budding musicians to perform side by side with Singapore Symphony Orchestra brass musicians. “I learnt a lot as I had to do everything from marketing to finance to securing sponsorships. I’m thankful to have YST faculty mentors like Mr Sam Armstrong and seniors who guide me along,” he shared. That same year, he also co-founded SingaBones, a community trombone orchestra, encouraging trombonists of all levels to play together so less experienced players have the experience of playing alongside professionals. The group has since grown to about 100 members, ranging from secondary school students to professional musicians. Chang Hui credits the overseas travel opportunities in YST for broadening his musical horizons. His exchange semester at the Koninklijk Conservatorium in The Hague in 2024 proved formative as he immersed himself in intensive hours of practice and was inspired by European peers who balanced rigorous musical training with part-time work. The experience strengthened his belief in creating opportunities for others. Noticing that students there had limited opportunities to perform orchestral repertoire, he rallied peers to sight-read, rehearse and record Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony – all in one day. The project, which mirrored the intensity and discipline of professional music making, also marked his first time conducting an orchestra. “Music is all about playing with others. I want to share my love for music and try to get as many people on board, just like my seniors did for me,” he said. In August, Chang Hui will head to Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music in Texas to pursue a Master’s in Trombone Performance on a full scholarship. Kuah Hui Min: Stringing worlds together with the guzheng When Kuah Hui Min arrived at YST for orientation week, she faced an unexpected challenge: performing with 59 other students – all playing different instruments – to deliver a concert. For over a decade, Kuah, 26, had played only traditional Chinese music on her guzheng , a traditional Chinese plucked string instrument. This collaborative exercise was unlike anything she had experienced before. It was a refreshing foretaste of what her time at YST would be like, as her peers and mentors pushed her to explore how the guzheng can be presented beyond its traditional context. YST’s emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration from day one influenced her artistic identity. “My peers were very spontaneous. We could just go into the practice room and start jamming music. Those small moments made my YST life enjoyable,” she said. To expand her understanding of music, she enrolled in YST’s Music, Collaboration & Production programme. Through courses like Area Studies, she explored jazz and blues on guzheng , performing with her peers who played electric bass, percussion, drums and keyboard. She also experimented with electronics, connecting pickups to her guzheng and using digital audio software to explore new sonic possibilities. She shared, “It made me realise the guzheng has many possibilities for experimentation.” These multicultural influences inspired her 2026 capstone project titled “In Another Light”, featuring guzheng with a string quartet. She wanted to break the assumptions that Chinese instruments can only exist in the Chinese music world. “The most challenging part was learning about western string quartet instruments, like their range, technique and what kind of phrasing would be suitable,” said Hui Min, who also teaches young children to play the guzheng . She feels YST has helped shape her into a confident musician who can think critically, perform, collaborate and curate concerts across musical traditions. “I don’t see myself as a traditional Chinese guzheng player, but as a musician who can do a lot of things, who just happens to play the guzheng ,” she explained. She hopes to continue collaborating with players of western instruments while imparting her knowledge to the younger generation. “I want to share my knowledge with younger students, and help them build a strong foundation,” she said. This story is part of NUS News’ coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/how-nus-music-graduates-found-their-rhythm/ Mon, 20 Jul 2026 09:48:39 +0800 As they prepare to take the stage at Commencement 2026, three music graduates from the Class of 2026 look back on how NUS empowered them to bridge disciplines, push musical boundaries and enrich Singapores arts scene. Huang Chao Hung: Of data science and musical numbers While Huang Chao Hung, a double bassist with the NUS Chinese Orchestra (NUSCO), enjoyed composing multimedia diaries featuring his own synthesised music and drawings, he didnt always hit all the right notes. His friend had told him, You have good intuition, but you dont have strong training. This prompted the Data Science and Analytics major to take up music courses at the NUS Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (YST) , such as Introduction to Classical Composition and Classical Styles and Romantic Spirits. When NUS launched its Second Major in Performing Arts at YST as part of its Arts for All initiative to increase student participation in the arts and enhance interdisciplinary learning, he seized the opportunity. Music theory has always intrigued me. Though data science and music seem unrelated, both involve breaking down complex concepts into understandable ideas, shared Chao Hung, 26. For his YST capstone project in 2026, he took on multiple roles: as producer, composer, performer and script writer. The multimedia performance explored loneliness through instruments including the violin, double bass and piano, with visuals he had drawn projected on screen. I wanted to tell people that if youre going through a phase of loneliness, you are not alone, said Chao Hung. He took the same storytelling approach when he organised NUSCOs annual concert In Bloom in 2024 as a student leader. Rather than simply performing pieces, he led his team to create a narrative journey using seeds as a metaphor for people who blossom despite lifes challenges, complete with original graphics and synchronised projections. Throughout his time leading NUS arts initiatives, Chao Hung found mentors in Ms Sing Mohli, Deputy Head of the Centre for the Arts at the NUS Office of Student Affairs and Mr Moses Gay, NUSCO conductor. Working with them brought me to a higher level from just a student who follows instructions to someone who creates with a clear purpose and strategy, he explained. Beyond NUS, he performs with the Singapore Foochow Association and The Purple Symphony, an inclusive orchestra comprising musicians with and without disabilities. Its meaningful to play with people from different backgrounds and age groups who enjoy music like I do hearing their stories and sharing mine, he said. Chao Hung will be graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics with Honours (Highest Distinction) and will notably be among the first batch of graduates from the Second Major in Performing Arts course. He plans to continue his twin passions after completing a Masters in Data Science and Machine Learning at NUS, aiming for a public sector career while pursuing music. I want to use data science to help citizens, while continuing to create and perform music that connects people. Toh Chang Hui: Trombonist has a blast giving back to the community Toh Chang Hui was set to graduate with a diploma in Mechanical Engineering when he made the bold decision to change course. The reason: He had just secured a scholarship from YST to pursue a Bachelor of Music . It was a dream come true. I was already in the Singapore National Youth Orchestra (SNYO) and knew I wanted to do music one day. I think I spent more time in the youth orchestra than in polytechnic studying, said the 24-year-old wryly. At YST, Chang Hui discovered that music education extended beyond performance. His Music, Collaboration & Production major required him to conceptualise and execute independent projects developing skills in ideation, planning and community engagement. Having received abundant support from YST and SNYO during his musical journey, he felt compelled to pay it forward. This shaped much of his time at YST, where he took on projects that created opportunities for young and developing musicians to perform, learn from professionals and grow as a community. Amongst them was a YST Trombone Weekend in 2023, which he organised to allow budding musicians to perform side by side with Singapore Symphony Orchestra brass musicians. I learnt a lot as I had to do everything from marketing to finance to securing sponsorships. Im thankful to have YST faculty mentors like Mr Sam Armstrong and seniors who guide me along, he shared. That same year, he also co-founded SingaBones, a community trombone orchestra, encouraging trombonists of all levels to play together so less experienced players have the experience of playing alongside professionals. The group has since grown to about 100 members, ranging from secondary school students to professional musicians. Chang Hui credits the overseas travel opportunities in YST for broadening his musical horizons. His exchange semester at the Koninklijk Conservatorium in The Hague in 2024 proved formative as he immersed himself in intensive hours of practice and was inspired by European peers who balanced rigorous musical training with part-time work. The experience strengthened his belief in creating opportunities for others. Noticing that students there had limited opportunities to perform orchestral repertoire, he rallied peers to sight-read, rehearse and record Tchaikovskys Fifth Symphony all in one day. The project, which mirrored the intensity and discipline of professional music making, also marked his first time conducting an orchestra. Music is all about playing with others. I want to share my love for music and try to get as many people on board, just like my seniors did for me, he said. In August, Chang Hui will head to Rice Universitys Shepherd School of Music in Texas to pursue a Masters in Trombone Performance on a full scholarship. Kuah Hui Min: Stringing worlds together with the guzheng When Kuah Hui Min arrived at YST for orientation week, she faced an unexpected challenge: performing with 59 other students all playing different instruments to deliver a concert. For over a decade, Kuah, 26, had played only traditional Chinese music on her guzheng , a traditional Chinese plucked string instrument. This collaborative exercise was unlike anything she had experienced before. It was a refreshing foretaste of what her time at YST would be like, as her peers and mentors pushed her to explore how the guzheng can be presented beyond its traditional context. YSTs emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration from day one influenced her artistic identity. My peers were very spontaneous. We could just go into the practice room and start jamming music. Those small moments made my YST life enjoyable, she said. To expand her understanding of music, she enrolled in YSTs Music, Collaboration & Production programme. Through courses like Area Studies, she explored jazz and blues on guzheng , performing with her peers who played electric bass, percussion, drums and keyboard. She also experimented with electronics, connecting pickups to her guzheng and using digital audio software to explore new sonic possibilities. She shared, It made me realise the guzheng has many possibilities for experimentation. These multicultural influences inspired her 2026 capstone project titled In Another Light, featuring guzheng with a string quartet. She wanted to break the assumptions that Chinese instruments can only exist in the Chinese music world. The most challenging part was learning about western string quartet instruments, like their range, technique and what kind of phrasing would be suitable, said Hui Min, who also teaches young children to play the guzheng . She feels YST has helped shape her into a confident musician who can think critically, perform, collaborate and curate concerts across musical traditions. I dont see myself as a traditional Chinese guzheng player, but as a musician who can do a lot of things, who just happens to play the guzheng , she explained. She hopes to continue collaborating with players of western instruments while imparting her knowledge to the younger generation. I want to share my knowledge with younger students, and help them build a strong foundation, she said. This story is part of NUS News coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.umich.edu/to-trial-or-not-to-trial-veteran-vaccine-advisers-say-vaccine-clinical-trials-alone-dont-tell-whole-story/ Sat, 18 Jul 2026 11:30:00 +0000 Two nationally recognized scientists with decades of experience advising U.S. vaccine policy argue that it is a mistake to exclude well-designed observational studies in determining how well vaccines work on a year-to-year basis. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/to-trial-or-not-to-trial-veteran-vaccine-advisers-say-vaccine-clinical-trials-alone-dont-tell-whole-story/ Sat, 18 Jul 2026 11:30:00 +0000 Two nationally recognized scientists with decades of experience advising U.S. vaccine policy argue that it is a mistake to exclude well-designed observational studies in determining how well vaccines work on a year-to-year basis. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/school-humanities-arts-and-social-sciences-welcomes-six-new-faculty-0717 Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:45:00 -0400 Top row, left to right: Grisha Coleman, Tung-Hui Hu, and Claire Luchette. Bottom row, left to right: Shota Momma, Lindsey Raymond, and Makoto Harris Takao. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/school-humanities-arts-and-social-sciences-welcomes-six-new-faculty-0717 Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:45:00 -0400 Top row, left to right: Grisha Coleman, Tung-Hui Hu, and Claire Luchette. Bottom row, left to right: Shota Momma, Lindsey Raymond, and Makoto Harris Takao. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/following-questions-where-they-lead-bailey-flanigan-0717 Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:25:00 -0400 “From the beginning, I got this sense of belonging at MIT — like my ways of thinking and problem-solving, which had seemed peculiar in many situations, actually made me belong more,” says Assistant Professor Bailey Flanigan. “This was a super refreshing feeling, and it has been 100 percent borne out since I arrived.” University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/following-questions-where-they-lead-bailey-flanigan-0717 Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:25:00 -0400 From the beginning, I got this sense of belonging at MIT like my ways of thinking and problem-solving, which had seemed peculiar in many situations, actually made me belong more, says Assistant Professor Bailey Flanigan. This was a super refreshing feeling, and it has been 100 percent borne out since I arrived. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/17/1140640/the-download-perimenopause-misinformation-china-moonshot-ai/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is today’s edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what’s going on in the world of technology. There’s a lot of hype around perimenopause. Don’t buy it. Perimenopause used to be considered taboo, but not anymore. Thanks at least in part to TV doctors and social media influencers,… University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/17/1140640/the-download-perimenopause-misinformation-china-moonshot-ai/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. Theres a lot of hype around perimenopause. Dont buy it. Perimenopause used to be considered taboo, but not anymore. Thanks at least in part to TV doctors and social media influencers, University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/25m-department-defense-grant-funds-triple-negative-breast-cancer-therapies Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:07:17 +0000 Weill Cornell Medicine has received a three-year, $2.5 million grant from the Department of Defense to develop therapies with fewer side effects for triple-negative breast cancer, one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat breast cancers. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/25m-department-defense-grant-funds-triple-negative-breast-cancer-therapies Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:07:17 +0000 Weill Cornell Medicine has received a three-year, $2.5 million grant from the Department of Defense to develop therapies with fewer side effects for triple-negative breast cancer, one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat breast cancers. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.mit.edu/2026/how-influx-salt-may-affect-microbial-ecosystems-0717 Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Climate-driven sea level rise is making freshwater ecosystems saltier, and MIT researchers have uncovered how that shift could reshape the microbial communities that sustain rivers and estuaries. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/17/1140608/theres-a-lot-of-hype-around-perimenopause-dont-buy-it/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 Perimenopause has entered the chat. Perimenopause—and its better-known relative, menopause—used to be considered taboo. Not anymore, thanks at least in part to TV doctors and social media influencers. Perhaps it’s my age, but these days, both my algorithm and my conversations with friends increasingly swing toward perimenopause. Menopause is defined as the life stage that… University/MIT_Technology https://news.mit.edu/2026/how-influx-salt-may-affect-microbial-ecosystems-0717 Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Climate-driven sea level rise is making freshwater ecosystems saltier, and MIT researchers have uncovered how that shift could reshape the microbial communities that sustain rivers and estuaries. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/17/1140608/theres-a-lot-of-hype-around-perimenopause-dont-buy-it/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 Perimenopause has entered the chat. Perimenopauseand its better-known relative, menopauseused to be considered taboo. Not anymore, thanks at least in part to TV doctors and social media influencers. Perhaps its my age, but these days, both my algorithm and my conversations with friends increasingly swing toward perimenopause. Menopause is defined as the life stage that University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/17/1140622/weather-data-sabotage/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:57:32 +0000 Every morning, airline dispatchers, grid operators, and farmers around the world make decisions based on the same thing: a weather forecast. While these forecasts are something that most people glance at for two seconds, weather predictions influence major strategic decisions in many industries, with real money, livelihoods, and even actual lives at stake. Farmers use… University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/17/1140622/weather-data-sabotage/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:57:32 +0000 Every morning, airline dispatchers, grid operators, and farmers around the world make decisions based on the same thing: a weather forecast. While these forecasts are something that most people glance at for two seconds, weather predictions influence major strategic decisions in many industries, with real money, livelihoods, and even actual lives at stake. Farmers use University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-spotlights-research-strengths-in-sustainability-and-environmental-innovation-siww-2026/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:15:00 +0800 NUS took centre stage at the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) 2026, with the NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI) leading the charge. From 16 to 18 June 2026, at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, the University highlighted its pioneering work in sustainability and environmental innovation. Anchored by the theme, “Innovative Environmental Solutions for Climate Resilience and Mitigation”, the NUS booth brought to life the University’s expertise with interactive research exhibits, digital posters, videos and technology-sharing sessions. Through these engaging displays, NUS reaffirmed its commitment to advancing impactful solutions for pressing environmental and water-related challenges. Deepening international collaboration in water research, education, and innovation A key highlight was the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding with Beijing Normal University’s College of Water Sciences and Nanjing Normal University, held at the NUS booth on 17 June 2026. This significant milestone is an important step in strengthening international collaboration in water-related research, education and innovation. These partnerships will create new opportunities for joint research, academic exchange and knowledge sharing, while further reinforcing NERI’s commitment to advancing impactful environmental solutions for the future. NERI and partners launch ceramic membrane demonstration plant SIWW 2026 also marked the official commencement of operations of the Ceramic Membrane Demonstration Plant at Tuas Desalination Plant. The facility, a collaboration between NERI, national water agency PUB and Meiden Singapore Pte Ltd (MSL), will provide valuable insights into ceramic membrane performance under real operating conditions. It will also generate operational data to assess the potential of ceramic membrane technologies for seawater desalination. To support informed decision-making and accelerate the deployment of more energy-efficient and resilient desalination systems, NERI hosted a workshop on “Ceramic Membranes for Pre-Treatment of Seawater Desalination” during SIWW 2026. Led by Professor Hu Jiangyong, Deputy Director of NERI, co-organised by Dr Tai Zhong Sheng from NERI, and co-hosted with Jonathan Clement, Global Director of JAC Water, the workshop brought together experts from academia and industry, including Mr Daniel Teo from PUB, Dr Hiroshi Noguchi from MSL and Dr Christian Volker Goebbert from Nanostone Water. During the workshop, the speakers shared valuable insights on ceramic membrane technologies for seawater desalination, including operational challenges, achievements, demonstration projects and future developments. Discussions also explored the impact of algal blooms on desalination operations and the role of ceramic membrane pre-treatment in enhancing resilience under challenging feedwater conditions. Public lecture and panel discussion on water safety In conjunction with SIWW 2026, NERI and the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering under NUS’ College of Design and Engineering (CDE) jointly hosted a public lecture by Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2026 Laureate Professor Joan B. Rose from Michigan State University on 18 June 2026 at NUS. Prof Rose delivered an insightful public lecture titled, “Risky Business: The Art and Science of Safe Water” where she highlighted the continuing global challenge of water contamination, from long-standing threats such as cholera to emerging pathogens, and emphasised the importance of Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment in integrating science, engineering, management and policy to support better decision-making. The lecture was followed by a panel discussion on water safety, public health, resilience and sustainability in the face of global change, chaired by Professor Karina Gin, Acting Head of the Department of Civil and Engineering at NUS CDE. SIWW 2026 provided an exciting platform for NUS to build new collaborations, showcase its latest research, and demonstrate the impact of its work to a global audience. The University looks forward to building on these new partnerships and continuing to advance innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-spotlights-research-strengths-in-sustainability-and-environmental-innovation-siww-2026/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:15:00 +0800 NUS took centre stage at the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) 2026, with the NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI) leading the charge. From 16 to 18 June 2026, at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, the University highlighted its pioneering work in sustainability and environmental innovation. Anchored by the theme, Innovative Environmental Solutions for Climate Resilience and Mitigation, the NUS booth brought to life the Universitys expertise with interactive research exhibits, digital posters, videos and technology-sharing sessions. Through these engaging displays, NUS reaffirmed its commitment to advancing impactful solutions for pressing environmental and water-related challenges. Deepening international collaboration in water research, education, and innovation A key highlight was the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding with Beijing Normal Universitys College of Water Sciences and Nanjing Normal University, held at the NUS booth on 17 June 2026. This significant milestone is an important step in strengthening international collaboration in water-related research, education and innovation. These partnerships will create new opportunities for joint research, academic exchange and knowledge sharing, while further reinforcing NERIs commitment to advancing impactful environmental solutions for the future. NERI and partners launch ceramic membrane demonstration plant SIWW 2026 also marked the official commencement of operations of the Ceramic Membrane Demonstration Plant at Tuas Desalination Plant. The facility, a collaboration between NERI, national water agency PUB and Meiden Singapore Pte Ltd (MSL), will provide valuable insights into ceramic membrane performance under real operating conditions. It will also generate operational data to assess the potential of ceramic membrane technologies for seawater desalination. To support informed decision-making and accelerate the deployment of more energy-efficient and resilient desalination systems, NERI hosted a workshop on Ceramic Membranes for Pre-Treatment of Seawater Desalination during SIWW 2026. Led by Professor Hu Jiangyong, Deputy Director of NERI, co-organised by Dr Tai Zhong Sheng from NERI, and co-hosted with Jonathan Clement, Global Director of JAC Water, the workshop brought together experts from academia and industry, including Mr Daniel Teo from PUB, Dr Hiroshi Noguchi from MSL and Dr Christian Volker Goebbert from Nanostone Water. During the workshop, the speakers shared valuable insights on ceramic membrane technologies for seawater desalination, including operational challenges, achievements, demonstration projects and future developments. Discussions also explored the impact of algal blooms on desalination operations and the role of ceramic membrane pre-treatment in enhancing resilience under challenging feedwater conditions. Public lecture and panel discussion on water safety In conjunction with SIWW 2026, NERI and the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering under NUS College of Design and Engineering (CDE) jointly hosted a public lecture by Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2026 Laureate Professor Joan B. Rose from Michigan State University on 18 June 2026 at NUS. Prof Rose delivered an insightful public lecture titled, Risky Business: The Art and Science of Safe Water where she highlighted the continuing global challenge of water contamination, from long-standing threats such as cholera to emerging pathogens, and emphasised the importance of Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment in integrating science, engineering, management and policy to support better decision-making. The lecture was followed by a panel discussion on water safety, public health, resilience and sustainability in the face of global change, chaired by Professor Karina Gin, Acting Head of the Department of Civil and Engineering at NUS CDE. SIWW 2026 provided an exciting platform for NUS to build new collaborations, showcase its latest research, and demonstrate the impact of its work to a global audience. The University looks forward to building on these new partnerships and continuing to advance innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/diana-grass-listens-to-bodys-language-0717 Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 Diana Grass develops soft bioelectronic devices that monitor how neural communication coordinates physiology across the entire body. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/diana-grass-listens-to-bodys-language-0717 Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 Diana Grass develops soft bioelectronic devices that monitor how neural communication coordinates physiology across the entire body. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/diamonds-forged-under-pressure-three-inspiring-nus-graduates-who-turned-their-challenges-into-hope/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:53:09 +0800 One turned the challenge of financial hardship into a drive for intellectual inquiry. Another transformed her experience with hearing loss into a passion for advocacy. A third found her calling in medicine after a family crisis. Now celebrating their Commencement, these Class of 2026 graduates exemplify how resilience and determination can turn setbacks into stepping stones. Eliza Lim: Broadening her horizons An innate curiosity has always fuelled Eliza Lim’s intellectual pursuits. While other teenagers might set aside their books after exams, Eliza was poring over a wide range of books after her A-Levels, from cosmology to geriatrics and human psychology. “I didn’t grow up in a very good environment,” said Eliza, 24, who came from a low-income background. “Studying helped me to feel a sense of control in my life.” She received financial aid from primary school to junior college and did not have access to private tuition. She then set her sights on NUS, where she majored in philosophy at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences , supported by a bursary. It was her love for physics that led her to philosophy. “Philosophy was the first-ever science, before it branched out into physics. I found it very mathematical and I liked it a lot.” Beyond her demanding academic schedule and extracurriculars, Eliza juggled multiple part-time jobs to support herself and her family. These included working as a freelance copywriter and teaching Japanese, a language she picked up during a year in Japan on an external scholarship. In her third year, Eliza began applying to graduate school. Following Assistant Professor Lavinia Picollo and Associate Professor Daniel Waxman's advice, she decided to pursue a PhD in philosophy overseas to deepen global exposure. Her dedication paid off and she received an offer from the University of Oxford for their Bachelor of Philosophy in Philosophy course, a Master's level postgraduate degree. She also enrolled in advanced 4000-level philosophy courses, which exposed her to Master's and PhD-level topics, exploring abstract topics from mathematics to computational theory. Eliza, who will graduate with Honours (Highest Distinction) for her Bachelor of Arts degree and plans to go into academia, particularly valued the investigative and analytical approach of these advanced classes, which offered greater independence in choosing research topics. “You can choose ideas that interest you most, write papers on them, and consider expanding on your research,” she noted. “ Learning philosophy helps us to make decisions. Decision theory can provide theories that explain why we are making certain choices, and encourage reflection on whether to pursue these choices,” she said. “When I was younger, studying came from a place of desperation. Now, it comes from wanting to improve myself and contribute to society.” Nicolette Koh: Advocating for inclusivity in healthcare While most children grow up surrounded by sound, Nicolette Koh was no stranger to silence. Diagnosed with hearing loss at age two, Nicolette went for her first cochlear implant surgery when she was just five. After her second and third procedures at ages 12 and 13, her hearing improved. Her personal journey with health sparked an early interest in medicine. Prescribed various medications after each surgery, Nicolette’s curiosity was piqued as she researched how the various components of these prescribed drugs aided her postoperative recovery. This fascination deepened through chemistry and biology in secondary school, and later, pharmaceutical sciences in polytechnic. “I wanted to help people through medicine, and this also formed part of my motivation to pursue pharmacy at NUS,” said Nicolette, 25. The Bachelor of Pharmacy graduate from the Faculty of Science was drawn to NUS’ holistic curriculum which integrated all the pharmaceutical topics into distinct modules, with each focusing on a specific body system (i.e. gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory). In her first year, she and her batchmates also had the opportunity to study cadavers in anatomy classes, providing an up-close understanding of the human body. Beyond academics, Nicolette was committed to disability advocacy throughout her time in NUS. In her third year, she led NUS SIGNapse, a sign language club comprising students from healthcare courses. As project director, she was instrumental in transitioning sign language classes from a peer-learning model to instruction by deaf instructors. This change allowed students to authentically learn both the language and culture, ultimately aiming to bridge communication gaps in healthcare, and improve access to healthcare for underrepresented communities. Nicolette is resolute in continuing her advocacy for inclusivity in her future career. “I aspire to be a pharmacist who cares for each and every patient,” said Nicolette, who has started her training as a pre-registration pharmacist at Changi General Hospital. “They aren’t just names on a piece of paper, but real people who deserve the best possible care, regardless of their condition.” Yap Yu Ting: From patient’s daughter to doctor Eight years ago, when her parents did not arrive to pick her up from canoe training, Yap Yu Ting knew something was amiss. Her intuition proved correct: her mother, a teacher, had been rushed to the hospital after suffering a severe headache and vomiting. Doctors diagnosed a ruptured aneurysm, necessitating emergency surgery. Yu Ting, then 16, spent the following days at Tan Tock Seng Hospital’s intensive care unit. It was there, amidst the anxiety, that she experienced how the healthcare workers took the time to show her compassion. “They were not only focused on how they could cure my mom, but also very caring,” the 24-year-old recalled. “Their clear explanations, reassurance and presence made the overwhelming situation more manageable.” This powerful display of empathy ignited her dream of becoming a doctor — a path that would eventually lead her to the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine ( NUS Medicine ) a few years later. However, the journey to medical school was anything but easy. Her mother — who has since made a full recovery and returned to teaching part-time — was hospitalised for over a month, during which she underwent three major surgeries. During this challenging period, Yu Ting juggled schoolwork, extracurriculars and the responsibility of caring for her younger brother, then only eight. She credits her years in competitive sports, with training sessions taking place both before and after school, for helping her develop the mettle to navigate tough times. “I learnt a lot about time management and perseverance,” she said. At NUS, Yu Ting continued her passion for sports, joining the NUS Dragon Boat Team. She competed in two major competitions: the 2023 Singapore Dragon Boat Association Century Race and the 2023 Prime Minister’s Challenge Cup, where her team placed second and third, respectively. During competition seasons, she would balance rigorous training with her studies and spending time with her family — all while getting eight hours of sleep every night. “Planning and prioritisation were essential,” she said. “My responsibilities and my passions do not always have to compete with each other.” Now a house officer at Singapore General Hospital, the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) graduate is determined to embody the very qualities that inspired her as a teenager: compassion and sportsmanship. “My coach used to tell us that we’re only as strong as our weakest player. We never left anyone behind,” she said. “I hope to carry the same values into my working life in healthcare.” This story is part of NUS News’ coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/diamonds-forged-under-pressure-three-inspiring-nus-graduates-who-turned-their-challenges-into-hope/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 09:53:09 +0800 One turned the challenge of financial hardship into a drive for intellectual inquiry. Another transformed her experience with hearing loss into a passion for advocacy. A third found her calling in medicine after a family crisis. Now celebrating their Commencement, these Class of 2026 graduates exemplify how resilience and determination can turn setbacks into stepping stones. Eliza Lim: Broadening her horizons An innate curiosity has always fuelled Eliza Lims intellectual pursuits. While other teenagers might set aside their books after exams, Eliza was poring over a wide range of books after her A-Levels, from cosmology to geriatrics and human psychology. I didnt grow up in a very good environment, said Eliza, 24, who came from a low-income background. Studying helped me to feel a sense of control in my life. She received financial aid from primary school to junior college and did not have access to private tuition. She then set her sights on NUS, where she majored in philosophy at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences , supported by a bursary. It was her love for physics that led her to philosophy. Philosophy was the first-ever science, before it branched out into physics. I found it very mathematical and I liked it a lot. Beyond her demanding academic schedule and extracurriculars, Eliza juggled multiple part-time jobs to support herself and her family. These included working as a freelance copywriter and teaching Japanese, a language she picked up during a year in Japan on an external scholarship. In her third year, Eliza began applying to graduate school. Following Assistant Professor Lavinia Picollo and Associate Professor Daniel Waxman's advice, she decided to pursue a PhD in philosophy overseas to deepen global exposure. Her dedication paid off and she received an offer from the University of Oxford for their Bachelor of Philosophy in Philosophy course, a Master's level postgraduate degree. She also enrolled in advanced 4000-level philosophy courses, which exposed her to Master's and PhD-level topics, exploring abstract topics from mathematics to computational theory. Eliza, who will graduate with Honours (Highest Distinction) for her Bachelor of Arts degree and plans to go into academia, particularly valued the investigative and analytical approach of these advanced classes, which offered greater independence in choosing research topics. You can choose ideas that interest you most, write papers on them, and consider expanding on your research, she noted. Learning philosophy helps us to make decisions. Decision theory can provide theories that explain why we are making certain choices, and encourage reflection on whether to pursue these choices, she said. When I was younger, studying came from a place of desperation. Now, it comes from wanting to improve myself and contribute to society. Nicolette Koh: Advocating for inclusivity in healthcare While most children grow up surrounded by sound, Nicolette Koh was no stranger to silence. Diagnosed with hearing loss at age two, Nicolette went for her first cochlear implant surgery when she was just five. After her second and third procedures at ages 12 and 13, her hearing improved. Her personal journey with health sparked an early interest in medicine. Prescribed various medications after each surgery, Nicolettes curiosity was piqued as she researched how the various components of these prescribed drugs aided her postoperative recovery. This fascination deepened through chemistry and biology in secondary school, and later, pharmaceutical sciences in polytechnic. I wanted to help people through medicine, and this also formed part of my motivation to pursue pharmacy at NUS, said Nicolette, 25. The Bachelor of Pharmacy graduate from the Faculty of Science was drawn to NUS holistic curriculum which integrated all the pharmaceutical topics into distinct modules, with each focusing on a specific body system (i.e. gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory). In her first year, she and her batchmates also had the opportunity to study cadavers in anatomy classes, providing an up-close understanding of the human body. Beyond academics, Nicolette was committed to disability advocacy throughout her time in NUS. In her third year, she led NUS SIGNapse, a sign language club comprising students from healthcare courses. As project director, she was instrumental in transitioning sign language classes from a peer-learning model to instruction by deaf instructors. This change allowed students to authentically learn both the language and culture, ultimately aiming to bridge communication gaps in healthcare, and improve access to healthcare for underrepresented communities. Nicolette is resolute in continuing her advocacy for inclusivity in her future career. I aspire to be a pharmacist who cares for each and every patient, said Nicolette, who has started her training as a pre-registration pharmacist at Changi General Hospital. They arent just names on a piece of paper, but real people who deserve the best possible care, regardless of their condition. Yap Yu Ting: From patients daughter to doctor Eight years ago, when her parents did not arrive to pick her up from canoe training, Yap Yu Ting knew something was amiss. Her intuition proved correct: her mother, a teacher, had been rushed to the hospital after suffering a severe headache and vomiting. Doctors diagnosed a ruptured aneurysm, necessitating emergency surgery. Yu Ting, then 16, spent the following days at Tan Tock Seng Hospitals intensive care unit. It was there, amidst the anxiety, that she experienced how the healthcare workers took the time to show her compassion. They were not only focused on how they could cure my mom, but also very caring, the 24-year-old recalled. Their clear explanations, reassurance and presence made the overwhelming situation more manageable. This powerful display of empathy ignited her dream of becoming a doctor a path that would eventually lead her to the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine ( NUS Medicine ) a few years later. However, the journey to medical school was anything but easy. Her mother who has since made a full recovery and returned to teaching part-time was hospitalised for over a month, during which she underwent three major surgeries. During this challenging period, Yu Ting juggled schoolwork, extracurriculars and the responsibility of caring for her younger brother, then only eight. She credits her years in competitive sports, with training sessions taking place both before and after school, for helping her develop the mettle to navigate tough times. I learnt a lot about time management and perseverance, she said. At NUS, Yu Ting continued her passion for sports, joining the NUS Dragon Boat Team. She competed in two major competitions: the 2023 Singapore Dragon Boat Association Century Race and the 2023 Prime Ministers Challenge Cup, where her team placed second and third, respectively. During competition seasons, she would balance rigorous training with her studies and spending time with her family all while getting eight hours of sleep every night. Planning and prioritisation were essential, she said. My responsibilities and my passions do not always have to compete with each other. Now a house officer at Singapore General Hospital, the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) graduate is determined to embody the very qualities that inspired her as a teenager: compassion and sportsmanship. My coach used to tell us that were only as strong as our weakest player. We never left anyone behind, she said. I hope to carry the same values into my working life in healthcare. This story is part of NUS News coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/16/ruth-braunstein-named-snf-agora-institute-director/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 19:11:00 +0000 Braunstein, who joined the Johns Hopkins faculty in 2025, is a nationally recognized scholar who studies democracy, pluralism, religion, and civic engagement University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/16/ruth-braunstein-named-snf-agora-institute-director/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 19:11:00 +0000 Braunstein, who joined the Johns Hopkins faculty in 2025, is a nationally recognized scholar who studies democracy, pluralism, religion, and civic engagement University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/16/babies-brains-wired-for-sound/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:02:02 +0000 A Johns Hopkins study identifies a previously unknown neural 'shortcut' in mice that organizes the auditory system before birth, offering new insight into how the auditory system prepares to process sound and eventually learn language University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/16/babies-brains-wired-for-sound/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:02:02 +0000 A Johns Hopkins study identifies a previously unknown neural 'shortcut' in mice that organizes the auditory system before birth, offering new insight into how the auditory system prepares to process sound and eventually learn language University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://news.umich.edu/summer-of-a-thousand-wildfires-u-m-experts-available-to-comment/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 13:53:38 +0000 University of Michigan experts are available to comment on the causes and consequences of this year's devastating wildfires: more than 800 active wildfires in Canada, over 100 more in the U.S. and more than 1,000 wildfires this year in Europe. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/summer-of-a-thousand-wildfires-u-m-experts-available-to-comment/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 13:53:38 +0000 University of Michigan experts are available to comment on the causes and consequences of this year's devastating wildfires: more than 800 active wildfires in Canada, over 100 more in the U.S. and more than 1,000 wildfires this year in Europe. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/16/1140600/the-download-openai-unveils-gpt-red-heat-pumps-rise-us/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is today’s edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what’s going on in the world of technology. Meet GPT-Red: an LLM super-hacker OpenAI built to make its models safer OpenAI has built an LLM super-hacker called GPT-Red that it uses as a sparring partner to help its other… University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/16/1140600/the-download-openai-unveils-gpt-red-heat-pumps-rise-us/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. Meet GPT-Red: an LLM super-hacker OpenAI built to make its models safer OpenAI has built an LLM super-hacker called GPT-Red that it uses as a sparring partner to help its other University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/will-julia-felix-survive-classics-prof-case-pompeii-tv-series Thu, 16 Jul 2026 10:07:39 +0000 Cornell archaeologist Caitie Barrett helps actor Tom Hiddleston uncover some of the secrets of the daily lives of people who were living in Pompeii when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/will-julia-felix-survive-classics-prof-case-pompeii-tv-series Thu, 16 Jul 2026 10:07:39 +0000 Cornell archaeologist Caitie Barrett helps actor Tom Hiddleston uncover some of the secrets of the daily lives of people who were living in Pompeii when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/16/1140505/heat-pump-sales-us/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 It feels as if it should be illegal to even think about heating appliances during the height of summer—seriously, these heat waves in New York have been brutal—but we need to talk about heat pumps. The appliances use electricity for heating, they’re incredibly efficient, and they’re on the rise. (For what it’s worth, many heat… University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/16/1140505/heat-pump-sales-us/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 It feels as if it should be illegal to even think about heating appliances during the height of summerseriously, these heat waves in New York have been brutalbut we need to talk about heat pumps. The appliances use electricity for heating, theyre incredibly efficient, and theyre on the rise. (For what its worth, many heat University/MIT_Technology https://news.mit.edu/2026/energy-systems-reliable-grid-future-is-about-location-0716 Thu, 16 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400 MIT researchers have created a way to make more climate-informed energy siting choices and shown how it can be used to make energy systems more resilient and reduce blackouts. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/energy-systems-reliable-grid-future-is-about-location-0716 Thu, 16 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400 MIT researchers have created a way to make more climate-informed energy siting choices and shown how it can be used to make energy systems more resilient and reduce blackouts. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/how-singapores-business-leaders-are-positioning-ai-governance/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:37:00 +0800 By Prof Lawrence Loh, Director of the Centre for Governance and Sustainability at NUS Business School The Business Times, 16 July 2026, p22 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/how-singapores-business-leaders-are-positioning-ai-governance/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:37:00 +0800 By Prof Lawrence Loh, Director of the Centre for Governance and Sustainability at NUS Business School The Business Times, 16 July 2026, p22 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-scale-and-yayasan-mendaki-partner-to-advance-lifelong-learning-and-workforce-readiness/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:34:33 +0800 The NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education ( NUS SCALE ) and Yayasan MENDAKI (MENDAKI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen lifelong learning, workforce development and skills upgrading opportunities for Singapore's Malay/Muslim community. The partnership was announced on 11 July 2026 at Wacana Kita, MENDAKI's annual community dialogue platform. The MOU was signed by Associate Professor Chai Kah Hin, Dean of NUS SCALE, and Mr Feroz Akber, Chief Executive Officer of MENDAKI. Witnessing the signing were Mr Zaqy Mohamad, Senior Minister of State for Defence & Sustainability and the Environment, and Chairman of MENDAKI; and Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS President. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to equip individuals and organisations with the knowledge, skills and capabilities needed to navigate a rapidly changing economy. As technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) continue to transform industries and jobs, the collaboration aims to expand access to quality learning opportunities that support career progression, professional growth and social mobility. Under the three-year agreement, NUS SCALE and MENDAKI will collaborate in two key areas. The first focuses on continuing education and training for workforce development, including programmes for MENDAKI staff and partner organisations, as well as initiatives in entrepreneurship and innovation. The second centres on skills-based learning pathways, encompassing short courses, professional certifications, academic advising and enrichment opportunities to support higher learning and career advancement. Another feature of the partnership is its emphasis on research and evidence-based workforce development. Both organisations will explore joint studies on workforce trends, employment patterns and emerging skills gaps to ensure that learning opportunities remain aligned with evolving industry and societal needs. Assoc Prof Chai said the partnership reflects the shared commitment of NUS and MENDAKI to strengthen career and social mobility through lifelong learning, at a time when AI is poised to change how we work, live and learn. “By combining MENDAKI’s strength in mobilising the community with NUS’ expertise in continuing education, we aim to help learners renew and deepen their capabilities — particularly in critical thinking, judgement and adaptability — so that they remain relevant and confident in a changing world, while contributing to a more resilient and inclusive Singapore.” Echoing this sentiment, Mr Feroz described the MOU as an important milestone in MENDAKI’s efforts to prepare the community for the future. “As industries evolve and new technologies reshape the way we live and work, it is critical that our community has access to quality lifelong learning opportunities that enable individuals to continuously upgrade their skills, deepen their expertise and remain relevant. Through this collaboration, we seek to broaden access to skills development and lifelong learning, equipping Malay/Muslim individuals and organisations to navigate change with confidence and seize emerging possibilities.” Potential areas of collaboration include courses in entrepreneurship, product design and digital marketing; leadership and social impact programmes for non-profit and volunteer sectors; continuing education pathways for healthcare professionals; youth development initiatives; and data analytics projects to better understand community outcomes and programme effectiveness. By NUS SCALE University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-scale-and-yayasan-mendaki-partner-to-advance-lifelong-learning-and-workforce-readiness/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:34:33 +0800 The NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education ( NUS SCALE ) and Yayasan MENDAKI (MENDAKI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen lifelong learning, workforce development and skills upgrading opportunities for Singapore's Malay/Muslim community. The partnership was announced on 11 July 2026 at Wacana Kita, MENDAKI's annual community dialogue platform. The MOU was signed by Associate Professor Chai Kah Hin, Dean of NUS SCALE, and Mr Feroz Akber, Chief Executive Officer of MENDAKI. Witnessing the signing were Mr Zaqy Mohamad, Senior Minister of State for Defence & Sustainability and the Environment, and Chairman of MENDAKI; and Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS President. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to equip individuals and organisations with the knowledge, skills and capabilities needed to navigate a rapidly changing economy. As technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) continue to transform industries and jobs, the collaboration aims to expand access to quality learning opportunities that support career progression, professional growth and social mobility. Under the three-year agreement, NUS SCALE and MENDAKI will collaborate in two key areas. The first focuses on continuing education and training for workforce development, including programmes for MENDAKI staff and partner organisations, as well as initiatives in entrepreneurship and innovation. The second centres on skills-based learning pathways, encompassing short courses, professional certifications, academic advising and enrichment opportunities to support higher learning and career advancement. Another feature of the partnership is its emphasis on research and evidence-based workforce development. Both organisations will explore joint studies on workforce trends, employment patterns and emerging skills gaps to ensure that learning opportunities remain aligned with evolving industry and societal needs. Assoc Prof Chai said the partnership reflects the shared commitment of NUS and MENDAKI to strengthen career and social mobility through lifelong learning, at a time when AI is poised to change how we work, live and learn. By combining MENDAKIs strength in mobilising the community with NUS expertise in continuing education, we aim to help learners renew and deepen their capabilities particularly in critical thinking, judgement and adaptability so that they remain relevant and confident in a changing world, while contributing to a more resilient and inclusive Singapore. Echoing this sentiment, Mr Feroz described the MOU as an important milestone in MENDAKIs efforts to prepare the community for the future. As industries evolve and new technologies reshape the way we live and work, it is critical that our community has access to quality lifelong learning opportunities that enable individuals to continuously upgrade their skills, deepen their expertise and remain relevant. Through this collaboration, we seek to broaden access to skills development and lifelong learning, equipping Malay/Muslim individuals and organisations to navigate change with confidence and seize emerging possibilities. Potential areas of collaboration include courses in entrepreneurship, product design and digital marketing; leadership and social impact programmes for non-profit and volunteer sectors; continuing education pathways for healthcare professionals; youth development initiatives; and data analytics projects to better understand community outcomes and programme effectiveness. By NUS SCALE University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/turning-2d-designs-into-3d-models-for-rapid-prototyping-0716 Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 “GIFT” is a new system that teaches vision-language generative AI models to produce accurate, computer-aided design programs that can be used to simulate and test 3D objects. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/turning-2d-designs-into-3d-models-for-rapid-prototyping-0716 Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 GIFT is a new system that teaches vision-language generative AI models to produce accurate, computer-aided design programs that can be used to simulate and test 3D objects. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-athletes-sports-and-academics/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 09:30:00 +0800 As NUS honours its newest graduates at Commencement, we spotlight three Class of 2026 student-athletes who balanced national competitions with the demands of their degrees. Through diligence and tenacity, they have excelled in their pursuits and carved out a rich university experience. Gan Xin Chen: Shooting for the stars National shooter Gan Xin Chen first picked up a rifle when she was only 10 years old. Intrigued by the sport, her fascination quickly blossomed into a lifelong love affair with shooting, taking her from local competitions to international events around the world. Those experiences also shaped her academic interests. Travelling overseas exposed her to different cultures, political systems and ways of thinking, sparking a curiosity about international relations and global affairs. That interest eventually led Xin Chen to pursue a double degree in history and political science at the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences , completing it in four years instead of the usual five, earning a place on the Dean’s List, and graduating with Honours (Highest Distinction). While her life as a shooter and student may seem disparate at first, they overlap in many ways. “Participating in overseas competitions helped feed my interest in the world,” said Xin Chen. “History provides me with cultural context and the ability to read between the lines.” She chose to pair political science with history in part because of NUS’ strong reputation in Southeast Asian history. Studying both subjects helped her appreciate the many dimensions of international relations, from culture and science to defence and security. Xin Chen’s experiences as an athlete often reinforced what she learnt in the classroom. Travelling internationally for competitions gave her first-hand insights into how countries interact and cooperate. She cited, for example, her experience of travelling overseas for competitions with the team’s air rifles, noting how the security checks varied between countries. While some allowed them to pass with minimal hassle due to diplomatic courtesies, others subjected them to more rigorous scrutiny. “There’s a lot of undertones of diplomacy that you’ll observe in the sporting world... some things cannot be read or learnt,” she said. While balancing academics and elite sports was demanding, Xin Chen found that the discipline she developed through shooting helped her navigate both. “Learning how to control my emotions and stay focused during competitions was good personal growth,” she said. “It helped me in other aspects of my life as well.” The same mindset shaped her approach to her studies. When assignments did not go as planned, she sought feedback from professors and worked to improve. It is an academic feat she has replicated in the realm of sports. Aside from clinching a bronze medal at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games, she made her mark at the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup in 2025, placing 16th in the mixed team event. She has also been long-listed for the 2026 Asian Games, and will soon begin a career in public sector. Reflecting on her journey, Xin Chen expects to draw on many of the lessons she learnt through sport. “In a competition, you're bound to make mistakes,” she said. “Through shooting, I learned how to give myself grace and learn from them. No matter how much you train or prepare, you're still human.” Oliver Lim: ‘Pressure is a privilege’ At 17 years old, Oliver Lim fell during a race and broke his thumb. The injury left the track and field athlete, who had inter-school competitions coming up, distraught. But a visit to the doctor would ultimately shape his future career. “The doctor said, ‘I want to be able to help you achieve your dream,’” he recalled. Rather than simply treating Oliver's thumb, the doctor took the time to understand what the injury meant to him. Running wasn't just a sport - it was a huge part of Oliver's identity. Together, they discussed the risks and benefits of the available treatment options before making a shared decision that balanced his recovery with his hope of returning to competition. Oliver went on to compete in the 4×400m relay wearing a protective hand guard and eventually clinched a gold medal with his team. "What stayed with me wasn't just the decision itself," Oliver recalled. "It was that my doctor saw me as more than just a medical problem to fix. He recognised what running meant to me and took that into account when caring for me. That experience changed how I viewed medicine. I realised that being a doctor isn't just about treating a condition. It's about caring for the whole person.” In fact, Oliver was so inspired that he later applied to study medicine at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine . Although he was rejected on his first attempt, he reapplied the following year and succeeded on his second try. Not only that, but he was even awarded the NUS Merit Scholarship, a prestigious accolade given to top performers. “I didn’t expect it at all,” he said. “The scholarship gave me a certain level of financial freedom, allowing me to experience living in a hall and spend more time on training. More than that, after being rejected from medicine the first time, it felt like a form of validation that encouraged me to pursue both medicine and athletics wholeheartedly.” Indeed, Oliver continued to chase his passion for running amid his hectic schedule. “When I’m running, I enter a flow state. Time stands still,” he said, adding that he had never been a gold medal favourite throughout his track and field career. That changed with his “breakthrough” race in 2024. At the Singapore Athletics All Comers Meet, he shaved two seconds off his personal best in the 800m race to hit a timing of 1 minute and 59 seconds. The result helped earn him a place on the national team, and later gave him the confidence to test himself in the 1500m. “I decided, ‘Okay, I’m going to treat this as a game,’” said Oliver. “My coach gave me a very specific race plan… I executed (the race) according to how he told me to do it.” What began as an experiment quickly proved promising. Within a year, Oliver had improved enough to qualify for the Southeast Asian Games in 2025, where he recorded one of Singapore’s fastest 1500m performances in recent years. Oliver said his experiences in medicine have also shaped the way he views success and setbacks. During his clinical training, he encountered situations that reminded him that not everything is within one’s control. “It made me realise that it’s important to know your limits,” he said. “In life, we’re given the guise of control, but a lot of times, that’s not true. The best we can do is focus on what we can control and make the best out of the situation when things don't go as planned.” Although it was hard to juggle studies and training, Oliver made it to the academic finish line and will graduate with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in July. Looking back, Oliver believes the lessons he learnt through sport have helped him navigate both medicine and athletics. “Pressure is a privilege,” he said. “It was a challenge and I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it if I put my mind to it.” Oliver is now working as a house officer in the Internal Medicine department at a public hospital and will continue to pursue his dual passions for sports and medicine. Joanna Wu: From mentee to mentor When Joanna Wu first stepped into NUS, she had only one goal: try everything. Having spent most of her life playing badminton competitively as a member of the National Intermediate Squad, Joanna graduated from junior college feeling unsure of what came next. “Other than badminton, I felt useless,” she said. “So in university, my goal was to try as many things as possible. I did not say no to any opportunity.” This never-say-no attitude led the Real Estate undergraduate from NUS Business School to try out squash and tennis during her stints in Temasek Hall and Eusoff Hall . She even ventured beyond the arena of sports, joining the NUS Students’ Sports Club in 2022. There, she served as Project Director for RunNUS, an annual run that raises funds for the NUS Enhanced Financial Aid Scheme. Her experiences helped her pick up a wide range of skills, from communication and stakeholder management to project planning and leadership. The skills proved valuable during her internships with CapitaLand and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore, where she deepened her knowledge of Real Estate through handling placemaking initiatives and property tax. Yet the experiences she gained outside badminton ultimately brought her back to the sport. After dedicating four years to coaching badminton, Joanna and a business partner launched Wu Badminton Academy in 2025. The venture signalled her shift from mentee to mentor. “I wanted to help players compete at a higher level,” she said, adding that starting her own school gave her the autonomy to run lessons as she saw fit. Looking back, Joanna credits NUS with supporting her both on and off the court. As a recipient of the NUS Sports Scholarship, she benefitted from subsidised tuition fees, while staff from NUS’ Office Student Affairs (OSA) also conducted regular check-ins and supported her throughout her university journey. The support extended beyond campus. OSA staff even turned up to cheer her on during the 2025 Summer World University Games in Germany, which she participated in as a member of NUS’ Badminton varsity team. “Their hotel was far away, but they came down whenever they could and supported us the whole time,” she said. “I was so lucky to have all these people behind me.” The encouragement bolstered Joanna’s confidence, both as an athlete and as a student. As Joanna graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate with Merit this July, an exciting new journey begins, one guided by lessons from both the classroom and the court. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-athletes-sports-and-academics/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 09:30:00 +0800 As NUS honours its newest graduates at Commencement, we spotlight three Class of 2026 student-athletes who balanced national competitions with the demands of their degrees. Through diligence and tenacity, they have excelled in their pursuits and carved out a rich university experience. Gan Xin Chen: Shooting for the stars National shooter Gan Xin Chen first picked up a rifle when she was only 10 years old. Intrigued by the sport, her fascination quickly blossomed into a lifelong love affair with shooting, taking her from local competitions to international events around the world. Those experiences also shaped her academic interests. Travelling overseas exposed her to different cultures, political systems and ways of thinking, sparking a curiosity about international relations and global affairs. That interest eventually led Xin Chen to pursue a double degree in history and political science at the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences , completing it in four years instead of the usual five, earning a place on the Deans List, and graduating with Honours (Highest Distinction). While her life as a shooter and student may seem disparate at first, they overlap in many ways. Participating in overseas competitions helped feed my interest in the world, said Xin Chen. History provides me with cultural context and the ability to read between the lines. She chose to pair political science with history in part because of NUS strong reputation in Southeast Asian history. Studying both subjects helped her appreciate the many dimensions of international relations, from culture and science to defence and security. Xin Chens experiences as an athlete often reinforced what she learnt in the classroom. Travelling internationally for competitions gave her first-hand insights into how countries interact and cooperate. She cited, for example, her experience of travelling overseas for competitions with the teams air rifles, noting how the security checks varied between countries. While some allowed them to pass with minimal hassle due to diplomatic courtesies, others subjected them to more rigorous scrutiny. Theres a lot of undertones of diplomacy that youll observe in the sporting world... some things cannot be read or learnt, she said. While balancing academics and elite sports was demanding, Xin Chen found that the discipline she developed through shooting helped her navigate both. Learning how to control my emotions and stay focused during competitions was good personal growth, she said. It helped me in other aspects of my life as well. The same mindset shaped her approach to her studies. When assignments did not go as planned, she sought feedback from professors and worked to improve. It is an academic feat she has replicated in the realm of sports. Aside from clinching a bronze medal at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games, she made her mark at the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup in 2025, placing 16th in the mixed team event. She has also been long-listed for the 2026 Asian Games, and will soon begin a career in public sector. Reflecting on her journey, Xin Chen expects to draw on many of the lessons she learnt through sport. In a competition, you're bound to make mistakes, she said. Through shooting, I learned how to give myself grace and learn from them. No matter how much you train or prepare, you're still human. Oliver Lim: Pressure is a privilege At 17 years old, Oliver Lim fell during a race and broke his thumb. The injury left the track and field athlete, who had inter-school competitions coming up, distraught. But a visit to the doctor would ultimately shape his future career. The doctor said, I want to be able to help you achieve your dream, he recalled. Rather than simply treating Oliver's thumb, the doctor took the time to understand what the injury meant to him. Running wasn't just a sport - it was a huge part of Oliver's identity. Together, they discussed the risks and benefits of the available treatment options before making a shared decision that balanced his recovery with his hope of returning to competition. Oliver went on to compete in the 4400m relay wearing a protective hand guard and eventually clinched a gold medal with his team. "What stayed with me wasn't just the decision itself," Oliver recalled. "It was that my doctor saw me as more than just a medical problem to fix. He recognised what running meant to me and took that into account when caring for me. That experience changed how I viewed medicine. I realised that being a doctor isn't just about treating a condition. It's about caring for the whole person. In fact, Oliver was so inspired that he later applied to study medicine at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine . Although he was rejected on his first attempt, he reapplied the following year and succeeded on his second try. Not only that, but he was even awarded the NUS Merit Scholarship, a prestigious accolade given to top performers. I didnt expect it at all, he said. The scholarship gave me a certain level of financial freedom, allowing me to experience living in a hall and spend more time on training. More than that, after being rejected from medicine the first time, it felt like a form of validation that encouraged me to pursue both medicine and athletics wholeheartedly. Indeed, Oliver continued to chase his passion for running amid his hectic schedule. When Im running, I enter a flow state. Time stands still, he said, adding that he had never been a gold medal favourite throughout his track and field career. That changed with his breakthrough race in 2024. At the Singapore Athletics All Comers Meet, he shaved two seconds off his personal best in the 800m race to hit a timing of 1 minute and 59 seconds. The result helped earn him a place on the national team, and later gave him the confidence to test himself in the 1500m. I decided, Okay, Im going to treat this as a game, said Oliver. My coach gave me a very specific race plan I executed (the race) according to how he told me to do it. What began as an experiment quickly proved promising. Within a year, Oliver had improved enough to qualify for the Southeast Asian Games in 2025, where he recorded one of Singapores fastest 1500m performances in recent years. Oliver said his experiences in medicine have also shaped the way he views success and setbacks. During his clinical training, he encountered situations that reminded him that not everything is within ones control. It made me realise that its important to know your limits, he said. In life, were given the guise of control, but a lot of times, thats not true. The best we can do is focus on what we can control and make the best out of the situation when things don't go as planned. Although it was hard to juggle studies and training, Oliver made it to the academic finish line and will graduate with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in July. Looking back, Oliver believes the lessons he learnt through sport have helped him navigate both medicine and athletics. Pressure is a privilege, he said. It was a challenge and I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it if I put my mind to it. Oliver is now working as a house officer in the Internal Medicine department at a public hospital and will continue to pursue his dual passions for sports and medicine. Joanna Wu: From mentee to mentor When Joanna Wu first stepped into NUS, she had only one goal: try everything. Having spent most of her life playing badminton competitively as a member of the National Intermediate Squad, Joanna graduated from junior college feeling unsure of what came next. Other than badminton, I felt useless, she said. So in university, my goal was to try as many things as possible. I did not say no to any opportunity. This never-say-no attitude led the Real Estate undergraduate from NUS Business School to try out squash and tennis during her stints in Temasek Hall and Eusoff Hall . She even ventured beyond the arena of sports, joining the NUS Students Sports Club in 2022. There, she served as Project Director for RunNUS, an annual run that raises funds for the NUS Enhanced Financial Aid Scheme. Her experiences helped her pick up a wide range of skills, from communication and stakeholder management to project planning and leadership. The skills proved valuable during her internships with CapitaLand and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore, where she deepened her knowledge of Real Estate through handling placemaking initiatives and property tax. Yet the experiences she gained outside badminton ultimately brought her back to the sport. After dedicating four years to coaching badminton, Joanna and a business partner launched Wu Badminton Academy in 2025. The venture signalled her shift from mentee to mentor. I wanted to help players compete at a higher level, she said, adding that starting her own school gave her the autonomy to run lessons as she saw fit. Looking back, Joanna credits NUS with supporting her both on and off the court. As a recipient of the NUS Sports Scholarship, she benefitted from subsidised tuition fees, while staff from NUS Office Student Affairs (OSA) also conducted regular check-ins and supported her throughout her university journey. The support extended beyond campus. OSA staff even turned up to cheer her on during the 2025 Summer World University Games in Germany, which she participated in as a member of NUS Badminton varsity team. Their hotel was far away, but they came down whenever they could and supported us the whole time, she said. I was so lucky to have all these people behind me. The encouragement bolstered Joannas confidence, both as an athlete and as a student. As Joanna graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate with Merit this July, an exciting new journey begins, one guided by lessons from both the classroom and the court. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/odyssey-adaptations-homer-nolan-film Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Nearly three millennia after Homer’s epic tale, a Stanford lecturer explains why artists keep retelling the story of Odysseus. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/what-to-know-about-the-cyclosporiasis-outbreak Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Stanford Medicine’s David Relman transformed clinical diagnostics and food tracing for cyclospora, the parasitic organism behind the surge of this diarrheal illness. Here’s what he thinks you should know. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/odyssey-adaptations-homer-nolan-film Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Nearly three millennia after Homers epic tale, a Stanford lecturer explains why artists keep retelling the story of Odysseus. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/what-to-know-about-the-cyclosporiasis-outbreak Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Stanford Medicines David Relman transformed clinical diagnostics and food tracing for cyclospora, the parasitic organism behind the surge of this diarrheal illness. Heres what he thinks you should know. University/Stanford_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/3-questions-neural-transparency-and-future-of-ai-design-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:25:00 -0400 Pat Pataranutaporn University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/3-questions-neural-transparency-and-future-of-ai-design-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:25:00 -0400 Pat Pataranutaporn University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-professor-susumu-tonegawa-renowned-molecular-biologist-nobel-laureate-dies-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:00:00 -0400 Tonegawa made landmark discoveries about how the immune system generates antibody diversity and how the brain forms memories. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-professor-susumu-tonegawa-renowned-molecular-biologist-nobel-laureate-dies-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:00:00 -0400 Tonegawa made landmark discoveries about how the immune system generates antibody diversity and how the brain forms memories. University/MIT_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/bowling-alone-yes-but-watching-sports-is-another-thing/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:07:02 +0000 Kennedy School team says shared fandom has promise as undervalued social ‘medicine’ for division, isolation University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/bowling-alone-yes-but-watching-sports-is-another-thing/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:07:02 +0000 Kennedy School team says shared fandom has promise as undervalued social medicine for division, isolation University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/more-than-an-endowment-pioneer-a-good-man/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:19:41 +0000 Friends, colleagues recall Walter M. Cabot, longtime leader of Harvard Management Co., as modest, thoughtful, ‘with a rare combination of judgment and grace’ University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/more-than-an-endowment-pioneer-a-good-man/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:19:41 +0000 Friends, colleagues recall Walter M. Cabot, longtime leader of Harvard Management Co., as modest, thoughtful, with a rare combination of judgment and grace University/Harvard_Gazette https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/15/1140514/meet-gpt-red-an-llm-super-hacker-openai-built-to-make-its-models-safer/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:09:37 +0000 OpenAI has built an LLM super-hacker called GPT-Red that it uses as a sparring partner to help its other models boost their defenses against cyberattacks. Last week the company released the latest version of its flagship LLM, GPT-5.6. OpenAI says that training it against GPT-Red made the model its most robust release yet. GPT-Red automates… University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/15/1140514/meet-gpt-red-an-llm-super-hacker-openai-built-to-make-its-models-safer/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:09:37 +0000 OpenAI has built an LLM super-hacker called GPT-Red that it uses as a sparring partner to help its other models boost their defenses against cyberattacks. Last week the company released the latest version of its flagship LLM, GPT-5.6. OpenAI says that training it against GPT-Red made the model its most robust release yet. GPT-Red automates University/MIT_Technology https://news.mit.edu/2026/3d-printed-bridge-points-to-greener-construction-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 13:00:00 -0400 MIT Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering postdoc Hajin Kim-Tackowiak (left) and graduate student Zane Schemmer pose with the 3D-printed concrete bridge they designed and load-tested. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/3d-printed-bridge-points-to-greener-construction-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 13:00:00 -0400 MIT Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering postdoc Hajin Kim-Tackowiak (left) and graduate student Zane Schemmer pose with the 3D-printed concrete bridge they designed and load-tested. University/MIT_News https://news.umich.edu/loneliness-is-making-people-sick-doctors-cant-cure-it-alone/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:27:25 +0000 While loneliness has been shown to harm one's health, framing it as a health issue shifts responsibility from society to healthcare, even though healthcare alone cannot rebuild social ties, a new University of Michigan study warns. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/loneliness-is-making-people-sick-doctors-cant-cure-it-alone/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:27:25 +0000 While loneliness has been shown to harm one's health, framing it as a health issue shifts responsibility from society to healthcare, even though healthcare alone cannot rebuild social ties, a new University of Michigan study warns. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/electric-fields-help-guide-neural-activity-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:25:00 -0400 MIT researchers investigated how elecric fields can coordinate neural activity in the brain. This image represents one of the manifestations of coordinated electrical brain activity: brain waves. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/electric-fields-help-guide-neural-activity-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:25:00 -0400 MIT researchers investigated how elecric fields can coordinate neural activity in the brain. This image represents one of the manifestations of coordinated electrical brain activity: brain waves. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/ketogenic-diets-may-increase-cancer-risk-small-intestine-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0400 A new MIT study suggests a ketogenic diet can increase the risk of cancer in the small intestine. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/ketogenic-diets-may-increase-cancer-risk-small-intestine-0715 Wed, 15 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0400 A new MIT study suggests a ketogenic diet can increase the risk of cancer in the small intestine. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/15/1140498/the-download-useful-quantum-computer-subsea-tunnel/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is today’s edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what’s going on in the world of technology. PsiQuantum has a plan to make a massive quantum computer out of light The machine that could change the world will be housed in a room that looks like a data… University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/15/1140498/the-download-useful-quantum-computer-subsea-tunnel/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. PsiQuantum has a plan to make a massive quantum computer out of light The machine that could change the world will be housed in a room that looks like a data University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/diet-could-remake-modern-agriculture Wed, 15 Jul 2026 11:07:06 +0000 New study asserts that systematic change in food production and consumption requires real political capital and will. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/diet-could-remake-modern-agriculture Wed, 15 Jul 2026 11:07:06 +0000 New study asserts that systematic change in food production and consumption requires real political capital and will. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.nus.edu.sg/gillman-barracks---can-we-rethink-how-the-public-participates-in-decisions-on-redevelopment/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 13:49:00 +0800 By Ms Melissa Low, Head of the NUS Sustainability Academy and Research Fellow at the Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions at NUS CNA Online, 15 July 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/gillman-barracks---can-we-rethink-how-the-public-participates-in-decisions-on-redevelopment/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 13:49:00 +0800 By Ms Melissa Low, Head of the NUS Sustainability Academy and Research Fellow at the Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions at NUS CNA Online, 15 July 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-establishes-hylocc-to-accelerate-decarbonisation-efforts/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 10:09:35 +0800 To galvanise decarbonisation and combat climate change, the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) Centre for Hydrogen and Carbon Innovations (CHCI) , has established the Hydrogen and Low-Carbon Consortium (HyLoCC). The consortium, officially launched yesterday evening by Mr Keith Tan, Deputy Secretary (Energy, Carbon and Corporate) of Ministry of Trade and Industry Singapore, as part of CHCI’s Industry Day event, will kick off with four founding members, namely DBS Bank Limited, Keppel Ltd.’s Infrastructure Division (Keppel), Surbana Jurong Private Limited, and YTL PowerSeraya Pte. Limited. In 2024, global average carbon dioxide emissions reached a new record high. As greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide envelope the earth and trap heat, global warming occurs – our planet is now heating up faster than any point in recorded history, fuelling climate change and its rippling consequences such as increased frequencies of natural disasters, rising sea levels, destruction of food supplies, health risks, among many others. Undoubtedly, it has become increasingly imperative to find decarbonisation solutions. “Burning of fossil fuels to generate power is the biggest contributor of carbon dioxide emissions,” said Professor Yan Ning, Director of CHCI. “Projects at CHCI directly tackle this issue by researching on hydrogen, a promising alternative to fossil fuels, and developing innovative methods of carbon capture and transformation.” When used to generate power, hydrogen produces only water as a by-product; no carbon dioxide is emitted. Prof Yan continued, “Our research on hydrogen production and utilisation plays a vital role in curbing carbon emissions. However, translating these scientific innovations into widespread market adoption requires expertise beyond the laboratory. This is where HyLoCC comes in, by filling the crucial gap between academic research and industry. HyLoCC ensures that cutting-edge hydrogen and carbon innovations in the lab can be more readily translated into a reality.” Forging a decarbonisation powerhouse HyLoCC aims to drive research commercialisation of decarbonisation solutions by building a robust ecosystem that connects research labs, start-ups, and companies to relevant stakeholders across the value chain to ensure end-to-end technology deployment. Key activities and services of HyLoCC are as follows: Organise regular seminars featuring academic and industry speakers, targeted workshops, and networking sessions Facilitate collaborative research through personalised engagements between companies and CHCI researchers to solve specific problem statements Provide consortium members with access to CHCI’s integrated equipment and analysis platform to evaluate hydrogen and carbon utilisation technologies, including techno-economic analysis Develop talent and expertise through CHCI’s Continuing Education and Training courses and through collaborative postgraduate projects and undergraduate initiatives conducted with consortium members, research partners and companies “HyLoCC is an avenue where leading experts from various hydrogen and low-carbon sectors can come together to brainstorm ideas and share dedicated resources and information to solve real-world problems,” said Prof Yan. “These synergistic collaborations would build up our arsenal of decarbonisation solutions to fight against global warming and climate change.” The perspectives and insights of HyLoCC’s founding members will play a key role in shaping the strategic priorities of the consortium. For their remarks, please refer to the Annexe . About CHCI The Centre for Hydrogen and Carbon Innovations (CHCI) was formerly known as the Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, first established in July 2022 through an investment of S$25 million, comprising an endowed gift from Temasek along with additional funding from NUS. In July 2024, the Centre inaugurated its 600-sqm advanced research facility, which serves as an innovation hub to boost hydrogen research and its commercial application in Singapore. The renaming of the Centre on 14 July 2026 at the Industry Day event reflects its broader mission to advance both hydrogen and carbon innovations. CHCI now aims to support Singapore’s transition to a low-carbon future by developing new technologies and fostering collaboration across academia, industry, and government. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-establishes-hylocc-to-accelerate-decarbonisation-efforts/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 10:09:35 +0800 To galvanise decarbonisation and combat climate change, the National University of Singapores (NUS) Centre for Hydrogen and Carbon Innovations (CHCI) , has established the Hydrogen and Low-Carbon Consortium (HyLoCC). The consortium, officially launched yesterday evening by Mr Keith Tan, Deputy Secretary (Energy, Carbon and Corporate) of Ministry of Trade and Industry Singapore, as part of CHCIs Industry Day event, will kick off with four founding members, namely DBS Bank Limited, Keppel Ltd.s Infrastructure Division (Keppel), Surbana Jurong Private Limited, and YTL PowerSeraya Pte. Limited. In 2024, global average carbon dioxide emissions reached a new record high. As greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide envelope the earth and trap heat, global warming occurs our planet is now heating up faster than any point in recorded history, fuelling climate change and its rippling consequences such as increased frequencies of natural disasters, rising sea levels, destruction of food supplies, health risks, among many others. Undoubtedly, it has become increasingly imperative to find decarbonisation solutions. Burning of fossil fuels to generate power is the biggest contributor of carbon dioxide emissions, said Professor Yan Ning, Director of CHCI. Projects at CHCI directly tackle this issue by researching on hydrogen, a promising alternative to fossil fuels, and developing innovative methods of carbon capture and transformation. When used to generate power, hydrogen produces only water as a by-product; no carbon dioxide is emitted. Prof Yan continued, Our research on hydrogen production and utilisation plays a vital role in curbing carbon emissions. However, translating these scientific innovations into widespread market adoption requires expertise beyond the laboratory. This is where HyLoCC comes in, by filling the crucial gap between academic research and industry. HyLoCC ensures that cutting-edge hydrogen and carbon innovations in the lab can be more readily translated into a reality. Forging a decarbonisation powerhouse HyLoCC aims to drive research commercialisation of decarbonisation solutions by building a robust ecosystem that connects research labs, start-ups, and companies to relevant stakeholders across the value chain to ensure end-to-end technology deployment. Key activities and services of HyLoCC are as follows: Organise regular seminars featuring academic and industry speakers, targeted workshops, and networking sessions Facilitate collaborative research through personalised engagements between companies and CHCI researchers to solve specific problem statements Provide consortium members with access to CHCIs integrated equipment and analysis platform to evaluate hydrogen and carbon utilisation technologies, including techno-economic analysis Develop talent and expertise through CHCIs Continuing Education and Training courses and through collaborative postgraduate projects and undergraduate initiatives conducted with consortium members, research partners and companies HyLoCC is an avenue where leading experts from various hydrogen and low-carbon sectors can come together to brainstorm ideas and share dedicated resources and information to solve real-world problems, said Prof Yan. These synergistic collaborations would build up our arsenal of decarbonisation solutions to fight against global warming and climate change. The perspectives and insights of HyLoCCs founding members will play a key role in shaping the strategic priorities of the consortium. For their remarks, please refer to the Annexe . About CHCI The Centre for Hydrogen and Carbon Innovations (CHCI) was formerly known as the Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, first established in July 2022 through an investment of S$25 million, comprising an endowed gift from Temasek along with additional funding from NUS. In July 2024, the Centre inaugurated its 600-sqm advanced research facility, which serves as an innovation hub to boost hydrogen research and its commercial application in Singapore. The renaming of the Centre on 14 July 2026 at the Industry Day event reflects its broader mission to advance both hydrogen and carbon innovations. CHCI now aims to support Singapores transition to a low-carbon future by developing new technologies and fostering collaboration across academia, industry, and government. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/stanford-board-trustees-new-members Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Alumni Farah Champsi, Fred Harman, Reiko Osaki, and Josh Silverman will begin their terms with the board on Oct. 1. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/stanford-board-trustees-new-members Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Alumni Farah Champsi, Fred Harman, Reiko Osaki, and Josh Silverman will begin their terms with the board on Oct. 1. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/research-projects-family-first-approach-infant-care Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Stanford-led teams in U.S. NICUs and rural India are working to make parents active partners in newborn care, an approach linked to better outcomes for vulnerable infants. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/john-hennessy-marconi-society-award Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 The chip pioneer and Stanford president emeritus was honored with a lifetime achievement award for his transformative innovations to modern computing. University/Stanford_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/helping-ai-models-meet-real-world-0714 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:25:00 -0400 While most AI models have been taught using text and images, a system developed by Devavrat Shah takes tabular data as its input — structured data such as the row-and-column format used in spreadsheets — and then provides real-time planning on a large scale. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/helping-ai-models-meet-real-world-0714 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:25:00 -0400 While most AI models have been taught using text and images, a system developed by Devavrat Shah takes tabular data as its input structured data such as the row-and-column format used in spreadsheets and then provides real-time planning on a large scale. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/three-mit-press-journals-earn-clarivate-no-1-rankings-0713 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 15:55:00 -0400 Although relatively small compared to other commercial and university press publishers, MIT Press journals consistently publish widely cited scholarship across a broad range of disciplines, from social science and the humanities to neuroscience and artificial intelligence. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/three-mit-press-journals-earn-clarivate-no-1-rankings-0713 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 15:55:00 -0400 Although relatively small compared to other commercial and university press publishers, MIT Press journals consistently publish widely cited scholarship across a broad range of disciplines, from social science and the humanities to neuroscience and artificial intelligence. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/how-visual-learning-happens-in-the-brain-0714 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:30:00 -0400 Neuroscientists have debated how much change occurs in the brain’s visual-processing areas when an animal learns to recognize new objects. Some suspected that visual-processing pathways remain largely unchanged during learning to avoid broadly disrupting visual perception, but others have reported changes in activity within dedicated visual-processing areas with this kind of learning in humans and other primates. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/how-visual-learning-happens-in-the-brain-0714 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:30:00 -0400 Neuroscientists have debated how much change occurs in the brains visual-processing areas when an animal learns to recognize new objects. Some suspected that visual-processing pathways remain largely unchanged during learning to avoid broadly disrupting visual perception, but others have reported changes in activity within dedicated visual-processing areas with this kind of learning in humans and other primates. University/MIT_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/will-supreme-court-ruling-on-campaign-finance-yield-big-changes-for-parties/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:22:44 +0000 Nicholas Stephanopoulos says probably not, but it may make it easier for wealthy donors to bypass individual giving limits University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/will-supreme-court-ruling-on-campaign-finance-yield-big-changes-for-parties/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:22:44 +0000 Nicholas Stephanopoulos says probably not, but it may make it easier for wealthy donors to bypass individual giving limits University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/a-genetic-window-on-all-of-us/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:06:51 +0000 Broad Institute researcher details U.S. biobank’s value as global resource in study of roots of disease, health University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/a-genetic-window-on-all-of-us/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:06:51 +0000 Broad Institute researcher details U.S. biobanks value as global resource in study of roots of disease, health University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/lauren-groffs-poet-alter-ego/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:06:16 +0000 Writer lets secret slip in Radcliffe talk University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/lauren-groffs-poet-alter-ego/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:06:16 +0000 Writer lets secret slip in Radcliffe talk University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.mit.edu/2026/can-ai-build-jet-engine-jarvis-challenge-tests-ai-copilots-in-tough-tech-engineering-0714 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400 Faculty and TAs for the JARVIS Challenge were on hand throughout the competition to ensure safety, but students had to figure out their designs with minimal guidance. Here, Professor Zolti Spakovszky (center) helps team 811 Crew fire their jet engine. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/can-ai-build-jet-engine-jarvis-challenge-tests-ai-copilots-in-tough-tech-engineering-0714 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400 Faculty and TAs for the JARVIS Challenge were on hand throughout the competition to ensure safety, but students had to figure out their designs with minimal guidance. Here, Professor Zolti Spakovszky (center) helps team 811 Crew fire their jet engine. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/14/1140391/the-download-anthropic-claude-internal-thoughts-world-models/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. What Anthropics latest AI discovery doesand doesntshow James ODonnell When Anthropic announced last week that it had found a new window into its models internal thoughts as they reason through answers, University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/discovery-could-lead-drug-therapy-hypopigmentation-conditions Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:07:43 +0000 An NSAID-related compound called ampyrone appears to safely boost production of the pigment melanin in human skin, according to a preclinical study led by Weill Cornell Medicine and National Eye Institute investigators. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/discovery-could-lead-drug-therapy-hypopigmentation-conditions Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:07:43 +0000 An NSAID-related compound called ampyrone appears to safely boost production of the pigment melanin in human skin, according to a preclinical study led by Weill Cornell Medicine and National Eye Institute investigators. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/14/1140356/psiquantum-plan-massive-quantum-computer-out-of-light/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0000 The machine that could change the world will be housed in a room that looks like a data center crossed with an ice cream factory. Inside will be some 100 stainless-steel cabinets, each about six feet tall and connected to a supply of liquid helium that keeps them only a few degrees above absolute zero. University/MIT_Technology https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-engineers-find-precise-way-to-grow-artificial-blood-vessels-0714 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 With mechanical stretching, MIT engineers can control how artificial arteries sprout new capillaries. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-engineers-find-precise-way-to-grow-artificial-blood-vessels-0714 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 With mechanical stretching, MIT engineers can control how artificial arteries sprout new capillaries. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/no-rainbows-without-rain-nus-graduates-find-strength-amidst-personal-challenges/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 10:00:40 +0800 While academic challenges are a given in university life, some students navigate far greater storms. As we celebrate this season of Commencement, we spotlight two NUS graduates from the Class of 2026 who completed their studies while managing significant personal responsibilities at home, emerging stronger and more resilient. Sean Pang: An empathetic leader and son When Sean Pang became President of the NUS Students’ Union ( NUSSU ) in 2025, he made it his mission to help better support students. Among his key achievements was a significant policy enhancement that allowed NUS students to carry their first-year Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory credits over to their second year. Previously, these credits – which allow students to take eligible classes without their letter grade impacting their final cumulative average point – would expire after the first year. This change offers students greater flexibility. While he advocated for the student body, Sean, a Bachelor of Business Administration graduate from NUS Business School , who had specialised in Finance, Marketing, and Leadership & Human Capital Management, faced an unexpected crisis in his final semester. As he was preparing for a tutorial one morning, he received a call from his father: his mother had suffered a stroke and was admitted to the intensive care unit at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. "I'd be in the ward with her from 8pm to 8am, and my dad would take over from me each morning. We didn't know whether she could hear us at times, but we never wanted her to feel she was alone," recounted Sean. But things took a turn for the worse. “I was in the ICU when she suddenly became unresponsive,” he added. The doctors informed his family that his mother, in her 70s, had experienced a further brain bleed, and would need to undergo a high-risk surgery. At that point, Sean was juggling caregiving responsibilities with three final exams, individual assignments and presentations to complete. “I felt that I should still try my best, because if my mom were conscious, then she’d also tell me not to miss my exams,” he said wryly. His peers and professors from NUS Business School actively reached out during this tumultuous time, sending him class notes and offering emotional support. Sean’s mother managed to pull through, and he spent the next few months shuttling between the hospital, home and school. He eventually managed to graduate with Honours (Highest Distinction). “Going through a family crisis in my final semester gave me a perspective I did not have before. I learnt what it actually feels like to be the one who needs support,” he said. “Strength is not about holding everything together by yourself, but knowing when to let others in.” His personal experience deepened his understanding of mental health advocacy and student well-being initiatives he championed, including the UCare Mental Health Report presented to government stakeholders, and NUSSU Wellbeing Workshops to encourage students to engage in non-academic pursuits. “I want to be the kind of leader who creates space for the people around him to be human – to struggle, to ask for help, and to find their way through,” he said. Nur Harisa Binte Hassan: A family’s pride and joy Nur Harisa Binte Hassan’s childhood fascination with crime dramas ignited a dream of pursuing forensic science. This ambition was further fuelled by a deeper, more personal motivation: her mother's unfulfilled desire for a university education due to financial constraints. “My mother was really determined to go to university when she was younger, but (didn’t) manage to because of financial reasons,” Harisa said. “That motivated me to try my best and go to university for her, as well.” However, she did not do well enough to get into any of her chosen courses after A-levels. She decided to defer attending university, opting instead for Temasek Polytechnic’s Diploma in Medical Biotechnology. Her initial aim was to graduate quickly and secure a good job to supplement the family income, as her father was grappling with the effects of diabetes on his health. Three years later, she did well enough to pursue a degree in life sciences, offered by the Faculty of Science at NUS. Through fitDeen, an outdoor-based group under the NUS Muslim Society, she discovered a love for hiking and went on multiple expeditions, scaling mountains across Southeast Asia. Just before her third year of study, her father’s diabetes unfortunately worsened and he began showing early signs of dementia. This meant her mother had to take on additional work to support the family, while Harisa and her sister stepped up as caregivers to her father, sharing responsibilities like taking turns to bring him to daycare and administering medication. “You’d think that your parents’ health would only get bad when they become grandparents,” she said. “It’s a different feeling altogether, to have to take care of them earlier on in your life.” Despite these immense challenges, Harisa found solace and strength in her strong support network at NUS, particularly her friends in the Muslim Society, whose shared faith and frequent encouragement uplifted her. Reflecting on her journey, Harisa said, “We spend so much time wondering why bad things happen to us that we often forget to find the light in the darkness.” This story is part of NUS News’ coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/no-rainbows-without-rain-nus-graduates-find-strength-amidst-personal-challenges/ Tue, 14 Jul 2026 10:00:40 +0800 While academic challenges are a given in university life, some students navigate far greater storms. As we celebrate this season of Commencement, we spotlight two NUS graduates from the Class of 2026 who completed their studies while managing significant personal responsibilities at home, emerging stronger and more resilient. Sean Pang: An empathetic leader and son When Sean Pang became President of the NUS Students Union ( NUSSU ) in 2025, he made it his mission to help better support students. Among his key achievements was a significant policy enhancement that allowed NUS students to carry their first-year Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory credits over to their second year. Previously, these credits which allow students to take eligible classes without their letter grade impacting their final cumulative average point would expire after the first year. This change offers students greater flexibility. While he advocated for the student body, Sean, a Bachelor of Business Administration graduate from NUS Business School , who had specialised in Finance, Marketing, and Leadership & Human Capital Management, faced an unexpected crisis in his final semester. As he was preparing for a tutorial one morning, he received a call from his father: his mother had suffered a stroke and was admitted to the intensive care unit at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. "I'd be in the ward with her from 8pm to 8am, and my dad would take over from me each morning. We didn't know whether she could hear us at times, but we never wanted her to feel she was alone," recounted Sean. But things took a turn for the worse. I was in the ICU when she suddenly became unresponsive, he added. The doctors informed his family that his mother, in her 70s, had experienced a further brain bleed, and would need to undergo a high-risk surgery. At that point, Sean was juggling caregiving responsibilities with three final exams, individual assignments and presentations to complete. I felt that I should still try my best, because if my mom were conscious, then shed also tell me not to miss my exams, he said wryly. His peers and professors from NUS Business School actively reached out during this tumultuous time, sending him class notes and offering emotional support. Seans mother managed to pull through, and he spent the next few months shuttling between the hospital, home and school. He eventually managed to graduate with Honours (Highest Distinction). Going through a family crisis in my final semester gave me a perspective I did not have before. I learnt what it actually feels like to be the one who needs support, he said. Strength is not about holding everything together by yourself, but knowing when to let others in. His personal experience deepened his understanding of mental health advocacy and student well-being initiatives he championed, including the UCare Mental Health Report presented to government stakeholders, and NUSSU Wellbeing Workshops to encourage students to engage in non-academic pursuits. I want to be the kind of leader who creates space for the people around him to be human to struggle, to ask for help, and to find their way through, he said. Nur Harisa Binte Hassan: A familys pride and joy Nur Harisa Binte Hassans childhood fascination with crime dramas ignited a dream of pursuing forensic science. This ambition was further fuelled by a deeper, more personal motivation: her mother's unfulfilled desire for a university education due to financial constraints. My mother was really determined to go to university when she was younger, but (didnt) manage to because of financial reasons, Harisa said. That motivated me to try my best and go to university for her, as well. However, she did not do well enough to get into any of her chosen courses after A-levels. She decided to defer attending university, opting instead for Temasek Polytechnics Diploma in Medical Biotechnology. Her initial aim was to graduate quickly and secure a good job to supplement the family income, as her father was grappling with the effects of diabetes on his health. Three years later, she did well enough to pursue a degree in life sciences, offered by the Faculty of Science at NUS. Through fitDeen, an outdoor-based group under the NUS Muslim Society, she discovered a love for hiking and went on multiple expeditions, scaling mountains across Southeast Asia. Just before her third year of study, her fathers diabetes unfortunately worsened and he began showing early signs of dementia. This meant her mother had to take on additional work to support the family, while Harisa and her sister stepped up as caregivers to her father, sharing responsibilities like taking turns to bring him to daycare and administering medication. Youd think that your parents health would only get bad when they become grandparents, she said. Its a different feeling altogether, to have to take care of them earlier on in your life. Despite these immense challenges, Harisa found solace and strength in her strong support network at NUS, particularly her friends in the Muslim Society, whose shared faith and frequent encouragement uplifted her. Reflecting on her journey, Harisa said, We spend so much time wondering why bad things happen to us that we often forget to find the light in the darkness. This story is part of NUS News coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/michelle-landrey-cline-president-stanford-alumni-association Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 The Stanford alum will lead one of higher education’s largest and most influential alumni organizations following the retirement of Howard Wolf. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/multilingual-learner-policy-reclassification-research Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A Stanford partnership with nine California school districts found that reclassification barriers limit multilingual learners’ access to college-prep coursework – findings now shaping state legislation. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/jane-stanford-exhibit-cantor-arts-center Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 On view now at the Cantor Arts Center, JANE! offers a new look at the university’s founding mother. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/michelle-landrey-cline-president-stanford-alumni-association Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 The Stanford alum will lead one of higher educations largest and most influential alumni organizations following the retirement of Howard Wolf. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/multilingual-learner-policy-reclassification-research Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A Stanford partnership with nine California school districts found that reclassification barriers limit multilingual learners access to college-prep coursework findings now shaping state legislation. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/jane-stanford-exhibit-cantor-arts-center Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 On view now at the Cantor Arts Center, JANE! offers a new look at the universitys founding mother. University/Stanford_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/arthur-bahr-named-head-mit-literature-section-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 16:30:00 -0400 Arthur Bahr is a scholar of medieval literature whose work explores how different parts of physical manuscripts combine to create interest and meaning. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/arthur-bahr-named-head-mit-literature-section-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 16:30:00 -0400 Arthur Bahr is a scholar of medieval literature whose work explores how different parts of physical manuscripts combine to create interest and meaning. University/MIT_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/13/johns-hopkins-preserving-merit-based-review-federal-research-funding/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 19:33:00 +0000 University comment letter warns that proposed revisions to the Uniform Guidance could weaken merit-based review, increase administrative burden, and disrupt the federal research partnership University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/13/johns-hopkins-preserving-merit-based-review-federal-research-funding/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 19:33:00 +0000 University comment letter warns that proposed revisions to the Uniform Guidance could weaken merit-based review, increase administrative burden, and disrupt the federal research partnership University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/27-books-to-dive-into-this-summer/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 19:22:42 +0000 Harvard librarians share their faves University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/27-books-to-dive-into-this-summer/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 19:22:42 +0000 Harvard librarians share their faves University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/award-winning-biologist-connie-cepko-set-to-retire/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 19:19:24 +0000 Award-winning biologist Connie Cepko, who advanced work on vision-threatening disease, passes the torch to scientific successors University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/award-winning-biologist-connie-cepko-set-to-retire/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 19:19:24 +0000 Award-winning biologist Connie Cepko, who advanced work on vision-threatening disease, passes the torch to scientific successors University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-cybersecurity-clinic-preventing-cyberattacks-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:10:00 -0400 Visiting the cyber range and security operations center at Bridgewater State University are (left to right) Muhammad Umar (Brandeis University), Kahlen Wheaton (MIT), Jungwoo Chun (MIT), Hannarae Lee (BSU), Larry Susskind (MIT), and Almaz Kasymbekov (Brandeis). University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-cybersecurity-clinic-preventing-cyberattacks-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:10:00 -0400 Visiting the cyber range and security operations center at Bridgewater State University are (left to right) Muhammad Umar (Brandeis University), Kahlen Wheaton (MIT), Jungwoo Chun (MIT), Hannarae Lee (BSU), Larry Susskind (MIT), and Almaz Kasymbekov (Brandeis). University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/ai-agents-create-virtual-playgrounds-to-help-robots-get-crucial-training-data-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:50:00 -0400 A new system developed at MIT uses three agents to piece together the objects, walls, and overall look of a 3D scene. Its realistic recreations of indoor spaces help robots practice skills and try out different ways of doing tasks before theyre powered on. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/13/1140343/what-anthropics-latest-ai-discovery-does-and-doesnt-show/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:00:00 +0000 This story originally appeared in The Algorithm, our weekly newsletter on AI. To get stories like this in your inbox first, sign up here. Anthropiccurrently the worlds most valuable AI company, with a nearly $1 trillion valuationhas a reputation for publishing strange and heady research. Its looking into whether AI models can feel pain, for example, University/MIT_Technology https://news.umich.edu/for-black-girls-puberty-is-more-than-physicalit-transforms-conversations-about-identity/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:54:20 +0000 Some of the most meaningful changes during puberty may not happen in the body alone. They may also happen in conversation. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/for-black-girls-puberty-is-more-than-physicalit-transforms-conversations-about-identity/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:54:20 +0000 Some of the most meaningful changes during puberty may not happen in the body alone. They may also happen in conversation. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/running-for-shelter-u-m-alums-200-mile-quest-boosts-homeless-across-the-state/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:33:46 +0000 The day Brendan LaFrenier visited Wyoming Park Family Shelter near Grand Rapids to share his goal of running 200 miles to raise money for homeless people, Jim Davis thought it was a cool idea. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/running-for-shelter-u-m-alums-200-mile-quest-boosts-homeless-across-the-state/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:33:46 +0000 The day Brendan LaFrenier visited Wyoming Park Family Shelter near Grand Rapids to share his goal of running 200 miles to raise money for homeless people, Jim Davis thought it was a cool idea. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/13/alumni-startup-showcase-2026/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:22:00 +0000 Gargoyle Systems received $15,000 at JHU's first Alumni Startup Showcase, the culmination of a 20-week accelerator program University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://news.umich.edu/batter-up-bias-down-robot-umpires-curb-favoritism-for-star-hitters/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:30:44 +0000 When South Korea's professional baseball league introduced "robot umpire" ball-and-strike calls in 2024, famous batters appeared to lose an edge—but star pitchers did not. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/batter-up-bias-down-robot-umpires-curb-favoritism-for-star-hitters/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:30:44 +0000 When South Korea's professional baseball league introduced "robot umpire" ball-and-strike calls in 2024, famous batters appeared to lose an edgebut star pitchers did not. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/13/1140339/the-download-sperm-donor-limits-ai-world-models/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. Sperm donors need limits, says a European fertility group Ties van der Meer doesnt know how many siblings he has. The 47-year-old was conceived at a private fertility clinic using sperm University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/cancer-evolution-study-reveals-biology-glioma-progression Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:07:56 +0000 Glioma, a type of brain cancer, tends to progress toward greater malignancy due to an increasing tendency of the glioma cells to transform into immature, stem-cell-like states. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/cancer-evolution-study-reveals-biology-glioma-progression Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:07:56 +0000 Glioma, a type of brain cancer, tends to progress toward greater malignancy due to an increasing tendency of the glioma cells to transform into immature, stem-cell-like states. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/how-cornell-startup-scaled-13-billion-battery-tech Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:07:36 +0000 The startup was founded by Cornell alumni and a professor, inspired by a class in the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business and nurtured through Cornell’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/how-cornell-startup-scaled-13-billion-battery-tech Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:07:36 +0000 The startup was founded by Cornell alumni and a professor, inspired by a class in the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business and nurtured through Cornells entrepreneurship ecosystem. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.nus.edu.sg/dennis-lee-piano-series-kicks-off-with-technical-chops-dramatic-flair/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:22:00 +0800 The Straits Times, 13 July 2026, Life, pC5 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/dennis-lee-piano-series-kicks-off-with-technical-chops-dramatic-flair/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:22:00 +0800 The Straits Times, 13 July 2026, Life, pC5 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/with-less-than-1-of-its-land-used-for-farming-why-doesnt-singapore-face-food-shortages/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:17:00 +0800 By Prof Lawrence Loh, Director of the Centre for Governance and Sustainability at NUS Business School, and Assoc Prof Lin Dayan, from the School of Economics and Management, Nanjung University of Science and Technology, and a Visiting Scholar at CGS Lianhe Zaobao, 13 July 2026, Opinion, p12 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/with-less-than-1-of-its-land-used-for-farming-why-doesnt-singapore-face-food-shortages/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:17:00 +0800 By Prof Lawrence Loh, Director of the Centre for Governance and Sustainability at NUS Business School, and Assoc Prof Lin Dayan, from the School of Economics and Management, Nanjung University of Science and Technology, and a Visiting Scholar at CGS Lianhe Zaobao, 13 July 2026, Opinion, p12 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/asking-the-big-questions/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:30:00 +0800 At the heart of the research experience lies the pursuit of new knowledge. Going beyond what is taught in classrooms and textbooks, these students from the NUS Class of 2026 have led inquiries of their own — pushing disciplinary boundaries and exploring new frontiers of knowledge. Across diverse topics ranging from infectious diseases to language acquisition and the pedagogy of philosophy, undergraduates from the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme (UROP) at NUS have demonstrated how undergraduate research can deepen understanding while contributing meaningfully to society. Coming from different disciplines, NUS UROP undergraduates undertake research alongside academic mentors. The programme equips students with the knowledge and skills required for the inquiry process. Since 2023, students have also been able to deepen their research experience through the Research Experience (REx) programme, which offers a suite of research learning topics alongside financial grants to support their projects. Diverse topics: From playful philosophy to dengue defence For Joash Lee, there is room for play even in a highly theoretical field like Philosophy. The NUS Philosophy undergraduate set out to investigate whether playful pedagogy could encourage students to engage with philosophy as a way of thinking rather than merely an academic discipline. Under the supervision of Dr Sherice Ngaserin, Joash analysed qualitative data from students enrolled in her Philosophy of Games course , where Tabletop Role-Playing Games (TTRPGs) were used to explore philosophical concepts and ethical decision-making. Indeed, Joash found that immersing students in real-time gameplay that requires critical thinking, perspective-taking and nuanced moral reflection made abstract philosophical concepts more tangible and personally meaningful. His research opens potential possibilities for teaching philosophy – and other traditionally theoretical disciplines – in more engaging and impactful ways. Instead of targeting the dengue virus itself, NUS Biological Sciences undergraduate Sruthi Annamalai is studying the mosquito that carries it. Shifting the focus from virus to vector, she isolated the salivary protein produced by the Aedes aegypti mosquito – known as Neutrophil Stimulating Factor 1 (NeSt1) – which enters the body alongside the dengue virus and attacks the immune cells, where the virus then replicates. Through molecular laboratory techniques, Sruthi's research with Professor Jayaraman Sivaraman uncovered the three-dimensional structure of NeSt1 and its interactions with human immune cells, providing a much-needed blueprint for scientists seeking to block its function. Because NeSt1 is linked to the mosquito rather than any of the four unique strains of dengue, Sruthi’s findings could potentially solve the longstanding challenge of developing a tetravalent vaccine effective against all of them. In dengue-prone tropical regions such as Singapore, this strategy could complement existing vaccines and strengthen efforts to curb transmission. Medication labels could convey more than just essential information about dosage, risks and safe usage – depending on how they are presented. Utilising eye-tracking technology, Ziv Ng worked with Dr Mike Hou Minzheng and Dr Wong Chin Yi at the Institute of Policy Studies' Social Lab to track how people visually engaged with medication labels that differed in language and message framing. He found that the latter significantly influenced receptivity, suggesting that the way information is presented can meaningfully shape how individuals engage with health-related messages. Beyond medication labels, the study is especially pertinent to broader discussions on public health communication and policy design, as healthcare institutions increasingly rely on behavioural interventions to promote healthier choices. Identifying effective communication strategies that capture attention and increase engagement is therefore crucial in improving healthcare outcomes. MORE ON THE TOPIC Student research projects on love and plant-based abalone shine at NUS UROP+REx Conference NUS students drive impactful undergraduate research in healthcare and software Future-focused: Accelerating discoveries with AI By keeping pace with rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), UROP participants are adopting emerging techniques and best practices in their research methodologies, fostering a research environment that combines technological innovation with rigorous scientific inquiry. Working with Dr Steven Pan from NUS Psychology , REx Fellow Prathibaa Ramesh investigated whether self-generated or AI-generated mnemonics could help learners acquire Korean and Spanish vocabulary more effectively. Despite AI’s growing capabilities, Prathibaa found that AI-generated mnemonics were less effective than self-created ones and performed no better than having no mnemonic aid at all. However, when learners took AI-generated mnemonics and adapted them in their own way, their learning outcomes matched those achieved through self-created mnemonics – suggesting that active engagement remains a key tenet in language learning. Like humans, AI can evolve to solve complex problems more effectively and efficiently – this was Guo Wenjin’s ultimate goal when he embarked on his project with Assistant Professor Liu Yang from NUS Mathematics . Borrowing from the concept of natural selection from Darwinian evolution, Wenjin used the OpenEvolve framework to see how AI could propose meaningful improvements to representational reasoning and coding tasks. Rather than making random modifications to computer programmes, he evaluated the AI’s performance and retained only the best-performing versions – a process which went through rounds of iteration. Over time, simple programmes evolved into increasingly capable solutions. Refining AI through this evolutionary “trial-and-improvement” process highlights its potential in discovering better algorithms and solutions to complex problems in a range of fields, from scientific discovery to software engineering. This story is part of NUS News’ coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/asking-the-big-questions/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:30:00 +0800 At the heart of the research experience lies the pursuit of new knowledge. Going beyond what is taught in classrooms and textbooks, these students from the NUS Class of 2026 have led inquiries of their own pushing disciplinary boundaries and exploring new frontiers of knowledge. Across diverse topics ranging from infectious diseases to language acquisition and the pedagogy of philosophy, undergraduates from the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme (UROP) at NUS have demonstrated how undergraduate research can deepen understanding while contributing meaningfully to society. Coming from different disciplines, NUS UROP undergraduates undertake research alongside academic mentors. The programme equips students with the knowledge and skills required for the inquiry process. Since 2023, students have also been able to deepen their research experience through the Research Experience (REx) programme, which offers a suite of research learning topics alongside financial grants to support their projects. Diverse topics: From playful philosophy to dengue defence For Joash Lee, there is room for play even in a highly theoretical field like Philosophy. The NUS Philosophy undergraduate set out to investigate whether playful pedagogy could encourage students to engage with philosophy as a way of thinking rather than merely an academic discipline. Under the supervision of Dr Sherice Ngaserin, Joash analysed qualitative data from students enrolled in her Philosophy of Games course , where Tabletop Role-Playing Games (TTRPGs) were used to explore philosophical concepts and ethical decision-making. Indeed, Joash found that immersing students in real-time gameplay that requires critical thinking, perspective-taking and nuanced moral reflection made abstract philosophical concepts more tangible and personally meaningful. His research opens potential possibilities for teaching philosophy and other traditionally theoretical disciplines in more engaging and impactful ways. Instead of targeting the dengue virus itself, NUS Biological Sciences undergraduate Sruthi Annamalai is studying the mosquito that carries it. Shifting the focus from virus to vector, she isolated the salivary protein produced by the Aedes aegypti mosquito known as Neutrophil Stimulating Factor 1 (NeSt1) which enters the body alongside the dengue virus and attacks the immune cells, where the virus then replicates. Through molecular laboratory techniques, Sruthi's research with Professor Jayaraman Sivaraman uncovered the three-dimensional structure of NeSt1 and its interactions with human immune cells, providing a much-needed blueprint for scientists seeking to block its function. Because NeSt1 is linked to the mosquito rather than any of the four unique strains of dengue, Sruthis findings could potentially solve the longstanding challenge of developing a tetravalent vaccine effective against all of them. In dengue-prone tropical regions such as Singapore, this strategy could complement existing vaccines and strengthen efforts to curb transmission. Medication labels could convey more than just essential information about dosage, risks and safe usage depending on how they are presented. Utilising eye-tracking technology, Ziv Ng worked with Dr Mike Hou Minzheng and Dr Wong Chin Yi at the Institute of Policy Studies' Social Lab to track how people visually engaged with medication labels that differed in language and message framing. He found that the latter significantly influenced receptivity, suggesting that the way information is presented can meaningfully shape how individuals engage with health-related messages. Beyond medication labels, the study is especially pertinent to broader discussions on public health communication and policy design, as healthcare institutions increasingly rely on behavioural interventions to promote healthier choices. Identifying effective communication strategies that capture attention and increase engagement is therefore crucial in improving healthcare outcomes. MORE ON THE TOPIC Student research projects on love and plant-based abalone shine at NUS UROP+REx Conference NUS students drive impactful undergraduate research in healthcare and software Future-focused: Accelerating discoveries with AI By keeping pace with rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI), UROP participants are adopting emerging techniques and best practices in their research methodologies, fostering a research environment that combines technological innovation with rigorous scientific inquiry. Working with Dr Steven Pan from NUS Psychology , REx Fellow Prathibaa Ramesh investigated whether self-generated or AI-generated mnemonics could help learners acquire Korean and Spanish vocabulary more effectively. Despite AIs growing capabilities, Prathibaa found that AI-generated mnemonics were less effective than self-created ones and performed no better than having no mnemonic aid at all. However, when learners took AI-generated mnemonics and adapted them in their own way, their learning outcomes matched those achieved through self-created mnemonics suggesting that active engagement remains a key tenet in language learning. Like humans, AI can evolve to solve complex problems more effectively and efficiently this was Guo Wenjins ultimate goal when he embarked on his project with Assistant Professor Liu Yang from NUS Mathematics . Borrowing from the concept of natural selection from Darwinian evolution, Wenjin used the OpenEvolve framework to see how AI could propose meaningful improvements to representational reasoning and coding tasks. Rather than making random modifications to computer programmes, he evaluated the AIs performance and retained only the best-performing versions a process which went through rounds of iteration. Over time, simple programmes evolved into increasingly capable solutions. Refining AI through this evolutionary trial-and-improvement process highlights its potential in discovering better algorithms and solutions to complex problems in a range of fields, from scientific discovery to software engineering. This story is part of NUS News coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/tiny-infrared-chip-could-improve-gas-and-heat-detection-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 MIT researchers have created a chip-based optical device that can dynamically control incoming infrared light for more precise thermal imaging, chemical sensing, or pollution monitoring. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/new-method-keeps-kids-safe-from-illegal-ai-generated-content-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 Researchers developed an evaluation procedure that tests generative AI models for harmful capabilities without generating outputs. This could enable auditors to identify open-source models that have been adapted to produce illegal content. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/tiny-infrared-chip-could-improve-gas-and-heat-detection-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 MIT researchers have created a chip-based optical device that can dynamically control incoming infrared light for more precise thermal imaging, chemical sensing, or pollution monitoring. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/new-method-keeps-kids-safe-from-illegal-ai-generated-content-0713 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 Researchers developed an evaluation procedure that tests generative AI models for harmful capabilities without generating outputs. This could enable auditors to identify open-source models that have been adapted to produce illegal content. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-law-nus-nursing/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 10:01:42 +0800 Sitting in a courtroom watching a family in anguish as their loved one received a long prison sentence, law student Narakattuvalappil Netra felt the full weight of the law for the first time. Sprinting through an HDB corridor with a defibrillator in hand, nursing student Cheok Xin Lin was responding to a cardiac arrest emergency in his community, knowing that every second before the paramedics arrived could mean the difference between life and death. Netra and Xin Lin are two NUS students on very different paths, yet both realise that the most important lessons often take place outside the classroom. Human faces behind the law Netra joined NUS College ’s inaugural intake in 2022, pursuing an interdisciplinary education alongside her law degree at NUS Law that introduced her to the human realities of the legal system. Accumulating over 250 hours of pro bono work, including assisting in a capital drug trafficking case at the High Court, the 23-year-old found herself facing a side of the law that is not usually captured in textbooks. “When you interact with accused persons, you realise more about their personal struggles. It forms a lot more empathy,” she said. She found herself navigating a delicate balance as she felt for the families who watched their loved ones receive longer than expected sentences, yet as their legal assistant, she had to maintain a distance and remain professional. These experiences reinforced the importance of access to justice. "A lot of people facing criminal charges do not have legal knowledge, which includes how to access legal help, making it very hard for them to navigate the system, understand their odds and ultimately come to a decision that they can accept – this is important so that they do not feel resigned to a certain fate," she said. From the courtroom to Thailand’s rice fields NUS College also took Netra to the remote hills of Chiang Mai, Thailand. As part of her Impact Experience (IEx) project — NUS College’s two-year capstone where students work alongside communities in Singapore and Southeast Asia — Netra made six trips over two years to a Karen village, helping farmers transition from corn to coffee farming. Although she and her team were full of enthusiasm, reality quickly set in. The farmers, who had debts to service and livelihoods to protect, were wary after a failed non-governmental organisation-led coffee initiative years earlier. Her professor, Associate Professor Peter Vail at NUS College, reminded her that it was about the journey, not the destination. “There are a lot of things outside your control, and you can’t really fixate on that,” she recounted. Rather than push for a wholesale transition, the team adjusted their approach by introducing farmers to how coffee is made and distributed, the qualities the industry looks for, and connecting them to a network they could turn to in the future. “It’s about understanding what they want from you, rather than what you want to bring for them,” she said. Paramedic to nurse While Xin Lin started volunteering and responding to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) cases since his junior college days, serving as a brigade combat medic during his National Service (NS) was what deepened his interest in healthcare. After his NS, he continued volunteering with his constituency’s Community Emergency Response Team in Taman Jurong and continued responding to OHCAs through the myResponder app. In those critical moments, he would work alongside paramedics from the Singapore Civil Defence Force to support the affected individual, solidifying his interest in medicine. Inspired by these experiences, Xin Lin entered NUS Nursing with aspirations of becoming a paramedic. As it turned out, a different calling awaited him. As part of his NUS nursing training, Xin Lin was posted to Ng Teng Fong General Hospital for four weeks. Attached first to a neurosurgery ward and then to a neuro-rehabilitation ward, Xin Lin found himself following the same patient through both postings, from acute care to recovery. He realised that while paramedics work to keep a patient alive until they reach the hospital, nurses stay for the whole journey. “In healthcare, nursing is one of the few careers, if not the only career, that stays with the patient throughout,” he said. Over time, his ambition changed from becoming a paramedic to becoming a nurse, as he found himself drawn to the more sustained care that nursing provides. To ensure Xin Lin knew what he was in for, his father stress-tested his commitment for several months by pointing out the long hours, the demands, and the thankless nature of nursing. He was undeterred. “Nursing gives me a sense of accomplishment as I’m able to directly impact someone’s life, to literally try to save them,” said Xin Lin, who received a Ministry of Health Holdings scholarship to study nursing at NUS. He will be bonded to Alexandra Hospital for four years upon graduation. His role model For 25-year-old Xin Lin, being a nurse means more than delivering care at the bedside. It is also about giving voice to the nursing profession. As cohort representative, Xin Lin started a feedback channel where fellow nursing students could raise concerns directly with the school. Acting as a bridge between the student body and faculty, he raised issues such as the discomfort of the traditional white nursing uniform during clinical postings, which eventually led the school to transition to scrubs. “There’s sometimes a gap between what the student body feels and what the school sees, and someone has to bridge that,” he said. Xin Lin credits Ms Mary Yeo Kim Luang, an Associate Adjunct Lecturer at NUS Nursing and nursing veteran with 58 years of experience, for leaving a deep impression on him through her stories of fearless advocacy for her patients and fellow nurses. “I want to be a nurse who is vocal, who won’t be silent on things that don’t sit right,” he said. Living their dreams With her sights set on criminal law and white-collar crime, Netra is studying for her bar exam, while a training contract beckons in January 2027. “My experiences at NUS have given me a much better idea of what I want, what I value, and what I think the law should do,” she said. For Xin Lin, the journey to becoming a nurse begins at Alexandra Hospital. He also dreams of one day becoming a nurse clinician or even representing nursing on a bigger stage, giving voice to a profession he feels is underappreciated and undervalued. “There’s so much more that you can do,” he said to aspiring nurses. “Don’t confine yourself to just what you see today.” This story is part of NUS News’ coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-law-nus-nursing/ Mon, 13 Jul 2026 10:01:42 +0800 Sitting in a courtroom watching a family in anguish as their loved one received a long prison sentence, law student Narakattuvalappil Netra felt the full weight of the law for the first time. Sprinting through an HDB corridor with a defibrillator in hand, nursing student Cheok Xin Lin was responding to a cardiac arrest emergency in his community, knowing that every second before the paramedics arrived could mean the difference between life and death. Netra and Xin Lin are two NUS students on very different paths, yet both realise that the most important lessons often take place outside the classroom. Human faces behind the law Netra joined NUS College s inaugural intake in 2022, pursuing an interdisciplinary education alongside her law degree at NUS Law that introduced her to the human realities of the legal system. Accumulating over 250 hours of pro bono work, including assisting in a capital drug trafficking case at the High Court, the 23-year-old found herself facing a side of the law that is not usually captured in textbooks. When you interact with accused persons, you realise more about their personal struggles. It forms a lot more empathy, she said. She found herself navigating a delicate balance as she felt for the families who watched their loved ones receive longer than expected sentences, yet as their legal assistant, she had to maintain a distance and remain professional. These experiences reinforced the importance of access to justice. "A lot of people facing criminal charges do not have legal knowledge, which includes how to access legal help, making it very hard for them to navigate the system, understand their odds and ultimately come to a decision that they can accept this is important so that they do not feel resigned to a certain fate," she said. From the courtroom to Thailands rice fields NUS College also took Netra to the remote hills of Chiang Mai, Thailand. As part of her Impact Experience (IEx) project NUS Colleges two-year capstone where students work alongside communities in Singapore and Southeast Asia Netra made six trips over two years to a Karen village, helping farmers transition from corn to coffee farming. Although she and her team were full of enthusiasm, reality quickly set in. The farmers, who had debts to service and livelihoods to protect, were wary after a failed non-governmental organisation-led coffee initiative years earlier. Her professor, Associate Professor Peter Vail at NUS College, reminded her that it was about the journey, not the destination. There are a lot of things outside your control, and you cant really fixate on that, she recounted. Rather than push for a wholesale transition, the team adjusted their approach by introducing farmers to how coffee is made and distributed, the qualities the industry looks for, and connecting them to a network they could turn to in the future. Its about understanding what they want from you, rather than what you want to bring for them, she said. Paramedic to nurse While Xin Lin started volunteering and responding to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) cases since his junior college days, serving as a brigade combat medic during his National Service (NS) was what deepened his interest in healthcare. After his NS, he continued volunteering with his constituencys Community Emergency Response Team in Taman Jurong and continued responding to OHCAs through the myResponder app. In those critical moments, he would work alongside paramedics from the Singapore Civil Defence Force to support the affected individual, solidifying his interest in medicine. Inspired by these experiences, Xin Lin entered NUS Nursing with aspirations of becoming a paramedic. As it turned out, a different calling awaited him. As part of his NUS nursing training, Xin Lin was posted to Ng Teng Fong General Hospital for four weeks. Attached first to a neurosurgery ward and then to a neuro-rehabilitation ward, Xin Lin found himself following the same patient through both postings, from acute care to recovery. He realised that while paramedics work to keep a patient alive until they reach the hospital, nurses stay for the whole journey. In healthcare, nursing is one of the few careers, if not the only career, that stays with the patient throughout, he said. Over time, his ambition changed from becoming a paramedic to becoming a nurse, as he found himself drawn to the more sustained care that nursing provides. To ensure Xin Lin knew what he was in for, his father stress-tested his commitment for several months by pointing out the long hours, the demands, and the thankless nature of nursing. He was undeterred. Nursing gives me a sense of accomplishment as Im able to directly impact someones life, to literally try to save them, said Xin Lin, who received a Ministry of Health Holdings scholarship to study nursing at NUS. He will be bonded to Alexandra Hospital for four years upon graduation. His role model For 25-year-old Xin Lin, being a nurse means more than delivering care at the bedside. It is also about giving voice to the nursing profession. As cohort representative, Xin Lin started a feedback channel where fellow nursing students could raise concerns directly with the school. Acting as a bridge between the student body and faculty, he raised issues such as the discomfort of the traditional white nursing uniform during clinical postings, which eventually led the school to transition to scrubs. Theres sometimes a gap between what the student body feels and what the school sees, and someone has to bridge that, he said. Xin Lin credits Ms Mary Yeo Kim Luang, an Associate Adjunct Lecturer at NUS Nursing and nursing veteran with 58 years of experience, for leaving a deep impression on him through her stories of fearless advocacy for her patients and fellow nurses. I want to be a nurse who is vocal, who wont be silent on things that dont sit right, he said. Living their dreams With her sights set on criminal law and white-collar crime, Netra is studying for her bar exam, while a training contract beckons in January 2027. My experiences at NUS have given me a much better idea of what I want, what I value, and what I think the law should do, she said. For Xin Lin, the journey to becoming a nurse begins at Alexandra Hospital. He also dreams of one day becoming a nurse clinician or even representing nursing on a bigger stage, giving voice to a profession he feels is underappreciated and undervalued. Theres so much more that you can do, he said to aspiring nurses. Dont confine yourself to just what you see today. This story is part of NUS News coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/autistic-teens-brain-response-unfamiliar-voices Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A new Stanford Medicine study finds differences in how autistic teens process unfamiliar voices, pointing toward new therapies for adolescents. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/ai-financial-investing-advice-research Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A Stanford GSB study finds LLMs nudge users toward smart savings and investing habits – but the guidance skews weaker for women and less financially literate prompters. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/autistic-teens-brain-response-unfamiliar-voices Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A new Stanford Medicine study finds differences in how autistic teens process unfamiliar voices, pointing toward new therapies for adolescents. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/ai-financial-investing-advice-research Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A Stanford GSB study finds LLMs nudge users toward smart savings and investing habits but the guidance skews weaker for women and less financially literate prompters. University/Stanford_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/spottiswoode-park-estate-renewal-proposals-ready-for-voting/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 15:04:00 +0800 The Sunday Times, 12 July 2026, The Big Story, pA6 zbSunday, 12 July 2026, News, p3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/spottiswoode-park-estate-renewal-proposals-ready-for-voting/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 15:04:00 +0800 The Sunday Times, 12 July 2026, The Big Story, pA6 zbSunday, 12 July 2026, News, p3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/cultural-heritage-opens-up-various-opportunities-pathways-to-success-for-youth/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0800 Berita Minggu, 12 July 2026, p2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/cultural-heritage-opens-up-various-opportunities-pathways-to-success-for-youth/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0800 Berita Minggu, 12 July 2026, p2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/an-ancient-ice-body-passing-through-the-solar-system-uncovering-the-mysterious-origins-of-the-interstellar-visitor/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 14:56:00 +0800 By Mr Feng Junyuan, a Joint Master of Science Degree Programme in Science Communication at NUS with Australian National University zbSunday, 12 July 2026, Science, p2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/an-ancient-ice-body-passing-through-the-solar-system-uncovering-the-mysterious-origins-of-the-interstellar-visitor/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 14:56:00 +0800 By Mr Feng Junyuan, a Joint Master of Science Degree Programme in Science Communication at NUS with Australian National University zbSunday, 12 July 2026, Science, p2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/the-old-house-still-stands/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 14:53:00 +0800 By Assoc Prof Thang Leng Leng, Dept of Japanese Studies, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at NUS zbSunday, 12 July 2026, Opinion, p21 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/the-old-house-still-stands/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 14:53:00 +0800 By Assoc Prof Thang Leng Leng, Dept of Japanese Studies, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at NUS zbSunday, 12 July 2026, Opinion, p21 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/mendaki-signs-2-mous-to-enhance-opportunities-in-technology-and-lifelong-learning/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 14:41:00 +0800 Suria News Online, 11 July 2026 Berita Minggu, 12 July 2026, p3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/mendaki-signs-2-mous-to-enhance-opportunities-in-technology-and-lifelong-learning/ Sun, 12 Jul 2026 14:41:00 +0800 Suria News Online, 11 July 2026 Berita Minggu, 12 July 2026, p3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/stanford-athletes-mlb-draft Sun, 12 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Aidan Keenan, Rintaro Sasaki, Eric Jeon, and Cort MacDonald were picked in this year’s draft, Stanford's largest class since nine players were selected in 2023. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/stanford-athletes-mlb-draft Sun, 12 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Aidan Keenan, Rintaro Sasaki, Eric Jeon, and Cort MacDonald were picked in this years draft, Stanford's largest class since nine players were selected in 2023. University/Stanford_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/discovery-could-lead-brighter-more-energy-efficient-digital-displays-0710 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400 MIT researchers studied the microscopic changes that occur inside LEDs that utilize electrically-excited quantum dots, which are nanoscale particles that emit extremely pure colored light. Their insights could be used to make advanced, more energy-efficient QD-LED displays commercially viable for applications like flat-screen TVs and medical imaging devices. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/discovery-could-lead-brighter-more-energy-efficient-digital-displays-0710 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400 MIT researchers studied the microscopic changes that occur inside LEDs that utilize electrically-excited quantum dots, which are nanoscale particles that emit extremely pure colored light. Their insights could be used to make advanced, more energy-efficient QD-LED displays commercially viable for applications like flat-screen TVs and medical imaging devices. University/MIT_News https://news.umich.edu/housing-bill-set-to-become-law-u-m-experts-can-comment/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:57:29 +0000 The largest piece of federal housing affordability legislation to pass in decades is expected to become law today. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/housing-bill-set-to-become-law-u-m-experts-can-comment/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:57:29 +0000 The largest piece of federal housing affordability legislation to pass in decades is expected to become law today. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/is-that-bot-a-pomeranian-or-a-wolf-and-who-to-sue-when-it-bites/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:51:26 +0000 Legal expert says canine law provides useful framework for leashing AI University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/is-that-bot-a-pomeranian-or-a-wolf-and-who-to-sue-when-it-bites/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:51:26 +0000 Legal expert says canine law provides useful framework for leashing AI University/Harvard_Gazette https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/10/1140316/the-download-anthropic-claude-hidden-space-openai-super-app/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. Anthropic found a hidden space where Claude puzzles over concepts The AI firm Anthropic has got the clearest glimpse yet at whats really going on inside large language models as they University/MIT_Technology https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/10/declining-gun-homicides-record-gun-suicides-2024/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:00:00 +0000 Analysis of CDC data finds increases in rates among certain demographics, particularly Black females University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/10/declining-gun-homicides-record-gun-suicides-2024/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:00:00 +0000 Analysis of CDC data finds increases in rates among certain demographics, particularly Black females University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/demystifying-molecular-mechanisms-general-anesthesia Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:07:46 +0000 Researchers have identified a site where a commonly used anesthetic binds to sodium ion channels, revealing a molecular mechanism that may explain how these drugs dampen communication between neurons. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/demystifying-molecular-mechanisms-general-anesthesia Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:07:46 +0000 Researchers have identified a site where a commonly used anesthetic binds to sodium ion channels, revealing a molecular mechanism that may explain how these drugs dampen communication between neurons. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/10/1140289/sperm-donors-need-limits-says-a-european-fertility-group/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 Ties van der Meer doesnt know how many siblings he has. The 47-year-old was conceived at a private fertility clinic in the Netherlands using sperm provided by an anonymous donor. After the Netherlands banned anonymous donation in 2004, the doctor who ran the clinic destroyed records that might have identified those donors, he says. He University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/kay-kuok-oon-kwong-and-lim-pin-were-conferred-the-nus-honorary-doctor-of-letters-for-their-outstanding-contributions-in-professional-and-social-spheres/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:48:00 +0800 8world Online, 9 July 2026 Lianhe Zaobao, 10 July 2026, Singapore, p10 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/kay-kuok-oon-kwong-and-lim-pin-were-conferred-the-nus-honorary-doctor-of-letters-for-their-outstanding-contributions-in-professional-and-social-spheres/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:48:00 +0800 8world Online, 9 July 2026 Lianhe Zaobao, 10 July 2026, Singapore, p10 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/the-moral-compass-in-the-age-of-technology/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:12:00 +0800 By Ustaz Syafiq Mardi, PhD candidate in the Dept of Malay Studies, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at NUS Berita Harian, 10 July 2026, p18 & p19 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/the-moral-compass-in-the-age-of-technology/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:12:00 +0800 By Ustaz Syafiq Mardi, PhD candidate in the Dept of Malay Studies, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at NUS Berita Harian, 10 July 2026, p18 & p19 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/education-arms-race-cannot-be-solved-by-moe-alone/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:09:00 +0800 By Mr Nicholas Thomas, Research Fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies at NUS The Straits Times, 10 July 2026, Opinion, pB1 & pB2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/education-arms-race-cannot-be-solved-by-moe-alone/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:09:00 +0800 By Mr Nicholas Thomas, Research Fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies at NUS The Straits Times, 10 July 2026, Opinion, pB1 & pB2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/better-together-working-across-disciplines-for-real-world-impact/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:58:43 +0800 As the NUS Class of 2026 mark their Commencement, two graduates share how a drive to solve real-world problems led them to look beyond their own faculties for solutions. One co-developed a documentation tool for special education teachers, while the other launched a platform for cross-collaboration in healthcare. They are proof that a holistic education is not just about acquiring knowledge, but applying it to solve real-world problems. Givson Ong: Design for a cause When teachers at AWWA School go on Inclusive Journey trips, they support students with special needs, while observing, documenting, and preparing information for post-trip reporting. To keep track of students’ progress, they use a mix of hand-written notes, mobile apps, and phone cameras – an approach that allows for flexibility in the moment, but also requires observations to be manually compiled after each trip. Seeing an opportunity to improve this process, NUS Industrial Design student Givson Ong led the development of FieldNote, an AI-assisted documentation platform designed to help teachers capture observations, organise student progress records, and generate structured draft reports after each trip. The project was developed as part of the Innovation and Design Capstone at the College of Design and Engineering at NUS, supervised by Mr Eugene Ee and Adjunct Professor Chan Tong Leong. The design direction and research approach behind FieldNote were shaped by a concurrent design thesis supervised by NUS Adjunct Associate Professor Jung-Joo Lee, through which Givson developed his understanding of co-design, stakeholder engagement, and design’s role in complex care contexts. To bring FieldNote from concept to prototype, Givson worked with an interdisciplinary student team comprising members from Communications and New Media , Data Science and Economics , and Mechanical Engineering . Givson led the project by defining the problem space, shaping the design direction, and assembling a team whose collective strengths spanned qualitative research, software development, testing, and quantitative evaluation. “I wanted to do projects where you can really engage a broader community, but you can't hope to solve problems or challenges with just a single discipline,” said Givson. “I was very lucky that I was able to access different departments in NUS.” His role was to bridge these contributions through design, translating field research and co-design insights into a coherent platform for documentation, reflection and reporting during Inclusive Journey trips. Through co-design workshops, interviews, and pilot testing with AWWA teachers, the team developed a platform that allows teachers to document observations in a more structured way. FieldNote supports note-taking, student profiles, checklist-based scoring, and AI-assisted writing suggestions to help teachers record observations more efficiently. The project with AWWA began in Givson’s final year at NUS as his capstone project. Before this, he had also worked alongside Adj Assoc Prof Jung-Joo Lee on projects involving local hospitals and different stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem. The experience has been gratifying. “I realised that design can have a broader impact on society, particularly for healthcare and community care. It pushed me to see that I can use my skills to support hospital staff or special needs educators,” said Givson, who plans to pursue a joint Master of Arts and Master of Science in Innovation Design Engineering at the Royal College of Art and Imperial College London. He continues to work with AWWA teachers to refine FieldNote, with the goal of supporting an internal innovation grant application within AWWA School for further development and deployment. John Thng: Healthcare without borders Healthcare challenges are complex, often calling for integrated solutions that bring together disciplines ranging from technology and engineering to social sciences and design. Inspired by this need, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (NUS Medicine) student John Thng founded NUS HealthX in 2024. “What we needed was a platform that could bring all these disciplines together,” he said. The idea grew out of his clinical attachments, innovation projects and hackathons, where he saw that solving healthcare problems often took more than medical knowledge alone. Clinicians could spot the unmet needs, but turning ideas into practical solutions meant working with engineers, designers, programmers and entrepreneurs. NUS HealthX was founded to bridge this gap - by bringing together people from different disciplines on a regular basis so they could exchange ideas and brainstorm solutions for real-world healthcare challenges. Beyond fostering collaboration, the platform also creates opportunities for students to explore emerging fields through regular programmes on medical 3D printing, robotics, artificial intelligence and healthcare entrepreneurship, alongside international exchanges with partner institutions in the United Kingdom, Germany and Japan. One of the platform's standout achievements is Design for Medicine , an interdisciplinary module developed with the Division of Industrial Design under the College of Design and Engineering at NUS and the Centre for Healthcare Simulation at NUS Medicine. The module was introduced in 2025 with an enrolment of 24 design and medical students and could see future iterations. It has also launched five student-led medical device projects, pairing medical and design students to tackle real clinical challenges – several of which have progressed to faculty showcases and innovation grant applications. "Students often approach the same problem from very different perspectives," he said. "When you bring those perspectives together, you can arrive at solutions that may not have been possible within a single discipline." John's interest in turning ideas into impact deepened during an internship where he evaluated emerging medical technologies and healthcare companies across Asia, Europe and the US. The experience taught him that great ideas alone are not enough — scaling healthcare innovation takes clinical insight, technological capability, regulatory know-how and investment support, all working in concert. Since its founding, NUS HealthX has grown from a simple vision into a vibrant cross-disciplinary community reaching hundreds of students a year. John has since completed his undergraduate medical studies and now works as a junior doctor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at a local general hospital, but continues to chair NUS HealthX, which has secured grant funding, expanded its network, and built leadership structures so students can carry its mission forward. "We're still a very young setup, but I hope HealthX can continue to empower future generations of students to take ownership of healthcare challenges and work together to address them," he said. As his medical career unfolds, John hopes to make an impact not just through patient care, but by bridging healthcare, technology and innovation. "To me, that would be a meaningful career in medicine,” he concluded. This story is part of NUS News’ coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/better-together-working-across-disciplines-for-real-world-impact/ Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:58:43 +0800 As the NUS Class of 2026 mark their Commencement, two graduates share how a drive to solve real-world problems led them to look beyond their own faculties for solutions. One co-developed a documentation tool for special education teachers, while the other launched a platform for cross-collaboration in healthcare. They are proof that a holistic education is not just about acquiring knowledge, but applying it to solve real-world problems. Givson Ong: Design for a cause When teachers at AWWA School go on Inclusive Journey trips, they support students with special needs, while observing, documenting, and preparing information for post-trip reporting. To keep track of students progress, they use a mix of hand-written notes, mobile apps, and phone cameras an approach that allows for flexibility in the moment, but also requires observations to be manually compiled after each trip. Seeing an opportunity to improve this process, NUS Industrial Design student Givson Ong led the development of FieldNote, an AI-assisted documentation platform designed to help teachers capture observations, organise student progress records, and generate structured draft reports after each trip. The project was developed as part of the Innovation and Design Capstone at the College of Design and Engineering at NUS, supervised by Mr Eugene Ee and Adjunct Professor Chan Tong Leong. The design direction and research approach behind FieldNote were shaped by a concurrent design thesis supervised by NUS Adjunct Associate Professor Jung-Joo Lee, through which Givson developed his understanding of co-design, stakeholder engagement, and designs role in complex care contexts. To bring FieldNote from concept to prototype, Givson worked with an interdisciplinary student team comprising members from Communications and New Media , Data Science and Economics , and Mechanical Engineering . Givson led the project by defining the problem space, shaping the design direction, and assembling a team whose collective strengths spanned qualitative research, software development, testing, and quantitative evaluation. I wanted to do projects where you can really engage a broader community, but you can't hope to solve problems or challenges with just a single discipline, said Givson. I was very lucky that I was able to access different departments in NUS. His role was to bridge these contributions through design, translating field research and co-design insights into a coherent platform for documentation, reflection and reporting during Inclusive Journey trips. Through co-design workshops, interviews, and pilot testing with AWWA teachers, the team developed a platform that allows teachers to document observations in a more structured way. FieldNote supports note-taking, student profiles, checklist-based scoring, and AI-assisted writing suggestions to help teachers record observations more efficiently. The project with AWWA began in Givsons final year at NUS as his capstone project. Before this, he had also worked alongside Adj Assoc Prof Jung-Joo Lee on projects involving local hospitals and different stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem. The experience has been gratifying. I realised that design can have a broader impact on society, particularly for healthcare and community care. It pushed me to see that I can use my skills to support hospital staff or special needs educators, said Givson, who plans to pursue a joint Master of Arts and Master of Science in Innovation Design Engineering at the Royal College of Art and Imperial College London. He continues to work with AWWA teachers to refine FieldNote, with the goal of supporting an internal innovation grant application within AWWA School for further development and deployment. John Thng: Healthcare without borders Healthcare challenges are complex, often calling for integrated solutions that bring together disciplines ranging from technology and engineering to social sciences and design. Inspired by this need, NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (NUS Medicine) student John Thng founded NUS HealthX in 2024. What we needed was a platform that could bring all these disciplines together, he said. The idea grew out of his clinical attachments, innovation projects and hackathons, where he saw that solving healthcare problems often took more than medical knowledge alone. Clinicians could spot the unmet needs, but turning ideas into practical solutions meant working with engineers, designers, programmers and entrepreneurs. NUS HealthX was founded to bridge this gap - by bringing together people from different disciplines on a regular basis so they could exchange ideas and brainstorm solutions for real-world healthcare challenges. Beyond fostering collaboration, the platform also creates opportunities for students to explore emerging fields through regular programmes on medical 3D printing, robotics, artificial intelligence and healthcare entrepreneurship, alongside international exchanges with partner institutions in the United Kingdom, Germany and Japan. One of the platform's standout achievements is Design for Medicine , an interdisciplinary module developed with the Division of Industrial Design under the College of Design and Engineering at NUS and the Centre for Healthcare Simulation at NUS Medicine. The module was introduced in 2025 with an enrolment of 24 design and medical students and could see future iterations. It has also launched five student-led medical device projects, pairing medical and design students to tackle real clinical challenges several of which have progressed to faculty showcases and innovation grant applications. "Students often approach the same problem from very different perspectives," he said. "When you bring those perspectives together, you can arrive at solutions that may not have been possible within a single discipline." John's interest in turning ideas into impact deepened during an internship where he evaluated emerging medical technologies and healthcare companies across Asia, Europe and the US. The experience taught him that great ideas alone are not enough scaling healthcare innovation takes clinical insight, technological capability, regulatory know-how and investment support, all working in concert. Since its founding, NUS HealthX has grown from a simple vision into a vibrant cross-disciplinary community reaching hundreds of students a year. John has since completed his undergraduate medical studies and now works as a junior doctor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at a local general hospital, but continues to chair NUS HealthX, which has secured grant funding, expanded its network, and built leadership structures so students can carry its mission forward. "We're still a very young setup, but I hope HealthX can continue to empower future generations of students to take ownership of healthcare challenges and work together to address them," he said. As his medical career unfolds, John hopes to make an impact not just through patient care, but by bridging healthcare, technology and innovation. "To me, that would be a meaningful career in medicine, he concluded. This story is part of NUS News coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://headsup.stanford.edu/white-plaza-utilities Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Projects underway this summer in the White Plaza area are upgrading community gathering spaces and infrastructure. Separate utility work is replacing essential underground systems. White Plaza is closed through July 24, with construction from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and loud noise expected. University/Stanford_News https://headsup.stanford.edu/white-plaza-utilities Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Projects underway this summer in the White Plaza area are upgrading community gathering spaces and infrastructure. Separate utility work is replacing essential underground systems. White Plaza is closed through July 24, with construction from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and loud noise expected. University/Stanford_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/09/1140293/anthropic-found-a-hidden-space-where-claude-puzzles-over-concepts/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 20:22:28 +0000 The AI firm Anthropic has developed a technique that has given it the clearest glimpse yet at whats really going on inside large language models as they answer questions or carry out tasks. What they found ranges from the mundane to the unnerving. Researchers at the company built a tool called the Jacobian lens (or University/MIT_Technology https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-led-project-opens-first-climate-shelter-bangladesh-0709 Thu, 09 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400 The Jameel Observatory-CREWSnet project has established its first adaptation fortress at the Baradal Aftab Uddin Collegiate School in the Satkhira district of Bangladesh. It is designed to protect residents from extreme heat and tropical storms that plague the region. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/new-flapping-robot-swims-and-flies-like-diving-bird-0709 Thu, 09 Jul 2026 14:00:00 -0400 The aerial-aquatic robot can swim underwater, then flap out of the water to continue flying through air, much like diving birds. University/MIT_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/squashwise-baltimore-athletics-education-bus-station/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 School of Medicine alum Abby Markoe's nonprofit SquashWise mixes athletics with education for middle and high schoolers in Baltimore University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/facelift-for-the-four-doctors/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 John Singer Sargent's celebrated painting depicting four famous founding Johns Hopkins physicians emerges from its first conservation effort University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/supporting-student-travel/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 In 2023, the Rishis established the Girish and Himangi Rishi Student Travel Award through the Johns Hopkins Gupta-Klinsky India Institute. University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/text-massively-better-healthcare/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Venture fund founder Halle Tecco offers insight into how to heal American healthcare system University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/risk-reward-chicago-comb-company/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 A Q&A with John Litwinski, A&S '97, co-founder of the Chicago Comb Co. University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/text-salvage/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Hedgie Choi explores faith, authenticity, and the absurdity of life in her debut collection "Salvage" University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/piecing-together-a-victorian-love-story/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 A long-lost poetry book, a forbidden love, and a classics scholar's quest to round out the censored story of a Victorian "man of letters" who helped pave the path to gay rights University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/icebreaker/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Who was the most interesting visiting speaker or performer who came to campus while you were a student? University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/abbreviated-summer-2026/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/virtual-tutoring-comes-of-age/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 What started as a pandemic phenomenon has evolved from a temporary fix to an educational fixture University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/high-stakes-teen-marijuana-legalization/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Johns Hopkins researchers found that adolescents with cannabis use disorder had higher risks for later development of psychiatric disorders University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/editors-note/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/squashwise-baltimore-athletics-education-bus-station/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 School of Medicine alum Abby Markoe's nonprofit SquashWise mixes athletics with education for middle and high schoolers in Baltimore University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/facelift-for-the-four-doctors/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 John Singer Sargent's celebrated painting depicting four famous founding Johns Hopkins physicians emerges from its first conservation effort University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/supporting-student-travel/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 In 2023, the Rishis established the Girish and Himangi Rishi Student Travel Award through the Johns Hopkins Gupta-Klinsky India Institute. University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/text-massively-better-healthcare/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Venture fund founder Halle Tecco offers insight into how to heal American healthcare system University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/risk-reward-chicago-comb-company/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 A Q&A with John Litwinski, A&S '97, co-founder of the Chicago Comb Co. University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/text-salvage/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Hedgie Choi explores faith, authenticity, and the absurdity of life in her debut collection "Salvage" University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/piecing-together-a-victorian-love-story/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 A long-lost poetry book, a forbidden love, and a classics scholar's quest to round out the censored story of a Victorian "man of letters" who helped pave the path to gay rights University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/icebreaker/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Who was the most interesting visiting speaker or performer who came to campus while you were a student? University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/abbreviated-summer-2026/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/virtual-tutoring-comes-of-age/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 What started as a pandemic phenomenon has evolved from a temporary fix to an educational fixture University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/high-stakes-teen-marijuana-legalization/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Johns Hopkins researchers found that adolescents with cannabis use disorder had higher risks for later development of psychiatric disorders University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/editors-note/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/forecasting-space-weather/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 A team at the Applied Physics Lab is working to understand the complex science behind predicting invisible threats that can quickly crumble electric grid infrastructure on Earth University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/dialogue/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/protein-how-much-do-we-need-health-review/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 As more protein-packed products fill the aisles of grocery stores, the question remains: How much do we really need? University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/turning-pages-staying-connected/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 The Johns Hopkins University Book Club, organized by the Office of Alumni Relations, connects the university's global community through shared reading experiences University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/alumni-weekend-sesquicentennial-style/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 A recap of the 2026 All-Alumni Weekend University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/rare-earth-minerals-history-and-alternatives/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Rare earth elements are crucial for our modern age. Crucial, too, is solving the environmental challenges surrounding them. University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/a-restaurant-run-by-robots/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 Arthur Dai, Bus '23 (MBA), and his wife, Yanni Huang, A&S '25 (MA), run a Chinese restaurant called Mahjong near JHU's Homewood campus with the help of semi-automated robot chefs University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://hub.jhu.edu/magazine/2026/summer/a-student-of-the-universe/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:50:00 +0000 A pandemic light-bulb moment led to career revelations for Whiting School alum Urban Koi University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/beyond-pitch-founders-journey-0709 Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:35:00 -0400 Instructor Ken Zolot (left) and a student speak in the Founder's Journey class at MIT. University/MIT_News https://news.umich.edu/looking-beyond-the-dumping-ground-a-conversation-about-environmental-justice-in-the-global-south/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:26:51 +0000 Digital technologies—from artificial intelligence to smartphones and data centers—are often described as "clean" innovations. Yet every device depends on minerals, electricity, labor and global supply chains, raising important questions about environmental justice and development. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/looking-beyond-the-dumping-ground-a-conversation-about-environmental-justice-in-the-global-south/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:26:51 +0000 Digital technologiesfrom artificial intelligence to smartphones and data centersare often described as "clean" innovations. Yet every device depends on minerals, electricity, labor and global supply chains, raising important questions about environmental justice and development. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/baseball-sized-tossit-sensor-can-detect-chemical-threats-0709 Thu, 09 Jul 2026 12:10:00 -0400 Researcher Jude Kelley holds up TOSSIT, an alerting sensor with a removable dye card that changes color in response to chemicals in the air. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/tiny-robot-boats-build-floating-structures-0709 Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:50:00 -0400 These small square robotic boats can assemble themselves into larger structures on the water, break apart, and reassemble into something new, all with minimal human direction. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/children-with-weaker-language-skills-more-likely-to-experience-negative-emotions/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 23:33:00 +0800 Lianhe Zaobao, 9 July 2026, Singapore, p8 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/higher-maternal-wellbeing-during-pregnancy-associated-with-better-early-language-development-and-lower-risk-of-depression-in-children/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 23:32:00 +0800 Lianhe Zaobao, 9 July 2026, Singapore, p8 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-conferred-honorary-doctorates-on-dr-kay-kuok-and-professor-lim-pin-for-their-lifelong-contributions/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 23:17:00 +0800 CNA, 9 July 2026 8world Online, 9 July 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/07/09/princeton-collaborators-celebrate-new-observatory-begins-its-ultra-high-definition Thu, 09 Jul 2026 10:13:00 -0400 Princeton researchers have played a major role in developing software pipelines to process the massive amounts of data the new Vera C. Rubin Observatory generates scanning the cosmos. University/Princeton_University_News https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/07/09/princeton-collaborators-celebrate-new-observatory-begins-its-ultra-high-definition Thu, 09 Jul 2026 10:13:00 -0400 Princeton researchers have played a major role in developing software pipelines to process the massive amounts of data the new Vera C. Rubin Observatory generates scanning the cosmos. University/Princeton_University_News https://news.umich.edu/new-plant-identification-app-available-powered-by-u-m-herbarium/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:57:53 +0000 Biologists and plant enthusiasts now have the power of Michigan's most complete plant identification guide in the palm of their hands. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/new-plant-identification-app-available-powered-by-u-m-herbarium/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:57:53 +0000 Biologists and plant enthusiasts now have the power of Michigan's most complete plant identification guide in the palm of their hands. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/awareness-gap-teens-underestimate-fentanyl-threat/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:34:58 +0000 Most U.S. eighth graders underestimate the dangers of fentanyl use, according to a new University of Michigan study. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/awareness-gap-teens-underestimate-fentanyl-threat/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:34:58 +0000 Most U.S. eighth graders underestimate the dangers of fentanyl use, according to a new University of Michigan study. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/prioritizing-pollinators-over-climate-change/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000 Facing both climate change and a crashing pollinator population, plants may be evolving to attract pollinators rather than adapting to a warming climate, and the trade-off has resulted in a steep decline in plants' rate of adaptation, according to a University of Michigan study. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/prioritizing-pollinators-over-climate-change/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000 Facing both climate change and a crashing pollinator population, plants may be evolving to attract pollinators rather than adapting to a warming climate, and the trade-off has resulted in a steep decline in plants' rate of adaptation, according to a University of Michigan study. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/09/1140283/the-download-nuclear-power-milestone-nvidia-china-ai-chips/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. Four nuclear reactors hit a big milestone in the US Casey Crownhart I was really looking forward to July 4, and not just because I love a poolside barbecue. This year University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-commencement-2026-begins-with-a-call-to-build-on-knowledge-and-lead-with-values/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 18:12:17 +0800 A new season of celebration began at the University Cultural Centre, as NUS marked the start of Commencement 2026, a 14-day series of ceremonies honouring the accomplishments of more than 17,900 graduates. Crossing the stage at the inaugural ceremony on 9 July 2026 were graduates from the NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education (SCALE) , which celebrates its 10 th anniversary this year. Some 57 graduates across two SCALE programmes the Master of Science in Environmental Management and the pioneer cohort from the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Innovation received their degrees in the presence of their families and friends. Presided over by the President of the Republic of Singapore and NUS Chancellor Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the event also saw the conferment of honorary degrees upon two outstanding leaders Ms Kay Kuok Oon Kwong, Director of Shangri-La Hotel Limited (Singapore); and Professor Lim Pin, University Professor at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine . Class of 2026: By the numbers 17,953 graduates 7,665 bachelors degrees 10,288 graduate degrees 9 new programmes graduating their pioneer cohort The real test of education Addressing the Class of 2026, NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye acknowledged both the hopes and anxieties of the graduates as they prepare to step into a world dramatically transformed by AI. Prof Tan noted that higher education had equipped the graduates with more than just expertise in a field or discipline, but also the critical thinking, interdisciplinary mindset and sense of responsibility needed to build a better world. In a world where technology can amplify both good and harm, values matter more than ever, he emphasised. Calling on graduates to contribute positively to their professions, communities and the wider world, he added: As you step out today, you must realise that the future will not be defined by technological advances or economic trends, but by the choices people make. This is the real test of your education. These themes of service and purpose were echoed in the honorary degrees conferred upon Ms Kuok and Prof Lim, the Universitys highest tribute for exceptional individuals who have rendered distinguished service and made a lasting impact on Singapore and the world. Ms Kay Kuok: Education is not an end point, but a foundation Ms Kuok was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters in recognition of her distinguished contributions to business and public service. A former member of the NUS Board of Trustees, she was cited for her exemplary leadership as founding Chair of the Yale-NUS College Governing Board shaping Singapores first liberal arts college and her pivotal role in its transition to NUS College . Delivering the citation for Ms Kuoks conferment, Professor Simon Chesterman, NUS Vice Provost (Educational Innovation) and Dean of NUS College, traced the arc of her remarkable career from her early training as a barrister to her rise in corporate leadership through the Kuok Groups Singapore entities and the Shangri-La Hotel, and her later stewardship of the National Healthcare Group. As Chair of the group, she guided one of Singapores largest healthcare systems, supported the establishment of the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, and provided steady leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, she was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for her lifetime of outstanding contributions to Singapore. In a speech that paid tribute to the power of education and reflected on her time as Chair of the Yale-NUS College Governing Board, Ms Kuok advised graduates charting their futures in an increasingly interconnected world to continue seeking knowledge from real experiences and new challenges. "Be true to your values and to yourselves, and as you move forward, remember that education is not an end point," she said. It is the foundation upon which you will continue building the rest of your life. MORE ON THIS TOPIC NUS confers Honorary Degrees on Ms Kay Kuok Oon Kwong and Professor Lim Pin No one path or timeline, but the courage to pursue a passion and fulfil a dream Professor Lim Pin: Carry the torch towards greater heights Prof Lim was also presented with the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters in recognition of his transformative leadership in advancing NUS growth and international standing, and his lifetime of distinguished contributions to medicine, higher education and public policy. Presenting the conferment citation, Professor Chong Yap Seng, Dean of the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine , lauded Prof Lims pioneering efforts that laid the foundations for NUS evolution into the university it is today. As NUS longest-serving Vice Chancellor, Prof Lim was instrumental in building Singapores scientific research capabilities, fostering an enduring research culture on campus, and championing interdisciplinary collaboration. By the time he stepped down in 2000, NUS had secured a multi-million-dollar annual research budget and established six research institutes. Appointed Vice-Chancellor in 1981 at just 45 years of age, Prof Lim later became the first professor to be named University Professor, NUS highest academic appointment. Beyond the University, Prof Lim's counsel has been widely sought on matters of national importance spanning science, ethics and public policy. He has chaired the National Biotechnology Committee and the Bioethics Advisory Committee, among other appointments. For his achievements, he has been recognised with national honours, such as the Distinguished Service Order, and prestigious international accolades. In his acceptance speech, Prof Lim expressed his sense of privilege in having contributed to the Universitys development throughout his career in medicine, education and leadership. Adding that he was heartened to see that NUS was ranked among the best in Asia and the world, he said, I am confident that our Class of 2026 will keep the flame of excellence burning bright and carry the torch towards greater heights. Different experiences, shared perspectives Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Ms Ng Xi Min, valedictorian from the Master of Science in Environmental Management programme, offered a fitting tribute to SCALEs 10 th anniversary as she reflected on the diverse paths taken by her fellow graduates. Some of us came in as fresh graduates while others arrived from government, industry and many other fields. We all arrived with different experiences and perspectives, and yet through discussions, group projects and countless conversations, we learnt as much from each other as we did from our professors. Over the next two weeks, more than 13,000 graduates from the Class of 2026 are expected to take the stage across 39 ceremonies. The season concludes with the Commencement Dinner on Friday, 24 July 2026. This story is part of NUS News coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/alums-launch-company-streamline-cash-flow-processes Thu, 09 Jul 2026 10:07:48 +0000 The newest podcast from Entrepreneurship at Cornell features the founders of Tabs. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-honorary-degrees-ms-kay-kuok-and-prof-lim-pin/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:21:15 +0800 The National University of Singapore (NUS) today conferred honorary degrees on two outstanding leaders: Ms Kay Kuok Oon Kwong, Director of Shangri-La Hotel Limited, Singapore; and Professor Lim Pin, University Professor at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. The honorary degrees were presented during the Main Ceremony of NUS Commencement 2026, presided by Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore and NUS Chancellor. The Honorary Degree is the Universitys highest form of recognition for outstanding individuals who have rendered distinguished service and had a great impact in Singapore and globally. Ms Kay Kuok Oon Kwong was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters, in recognition of her distinguished contributions to business and public service. She was recognised for her exemplary leadership as Chair of the Yale-NUS College Governing Board and her pivotal role in the transition from Yale-NUS College to NUS College. Professor Lim Pin was also presented with the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters, as a tribute to his transformative leadership in advancing NUS growth and international standing, and his lifetime of distinguished contributions to medicine, higher education and public policy. Ms Kuok and Prof Lim were joined by 57 graduates from the NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education , who received their degrees at the Main Ceremony today. The NUS Class of 2026 comprises 17,953 graduates: 7,665 students will receive Bachelors degrees and 10,288 will receive graduate degrees. A total of 39 ceremonies will be held at the NUS University Cultural Centre over a period of 14 days, from 9 to 22 July 2026. NUS Commencement 2026 will conclude with the Commencement Dinner, which will be held on Friday, 24 July 2026. NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye said, We are proud to present honorary degrees to Ms Kay Kuok and Professor Lim Pin who are well respected in their respective professional fields and beyond. They have contributed with great distinction to Singapore and the community, exemplifying exceptional vision in elevating standards beyond conventional benchmarks to create long-lasting, positive impact. NUS is particularly privileged to have benefitted from their leadership during their appointments with us, and we are delighted to celebrate their achievements today. Celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2026, Prof Tan said, Our newly minted NUS graduates have shown resilience, curiosity and excellence. These qualities will shape their journeys ahead as they pursue their aspirations. I encourage every graduate to carry the spirit of service, innovation and integrity, and apply their talents to make a positive impact in their communities and professions. I am confident that they will build a brighter future for Singapore and the world. This year, 156 students will be graduating as the pioneer cohort of 9 new programmes: Master of Science (Artificial Intelligence and Innovation) Master of Computing (Artificial Intelligence) Master of Clinical Mental Health and Psychotherapy Master of Science (Infectious Disease Emergencies) Master of Science (Medical Pharmacology) Master of Science (Sustainable Healthcare) Master of Science (Artificial Intelligence for Science) Master of Science (Climate Change and Sustainability) Master of Audio Arts and Sciences 2026 Honorary Doctor of Letters Recipient Ms Kay Kuok Oon Kwong Ms Kay Kuok Oon Kwong is a Director of Shangri-La Hotel Limited (Singapore). She also sits on the Boards of Kuok (Singapore) Limited and its various subsidiaries, and Venture Corporation Limited. Ms Kuok was previously Executive Chairman of Allgreen Properties Limited, Managing Director of Shangri-La Hotels (Malaysia) Berhad and Director of Kuok Brothers Sdn Bhd. Ms Kuok has made notable contributions to education, tourism, healthcare, the arts and the environment, serving and also having chaired and served on several other educational and community service organisations, industry groups and government bodies, including Singapore Business Federation, The Council for Board Diversity, Singapore Hotels Association, Mindfull Community Limited, Singapore Institute of International Affairs, National Healthcare Group Pte Ltd, MOH Holdings Pte Ltd, Singapore Tourism Board, NUS Board of Trustees, Yale-NUS College Governing Board, National Arts Council, South West CDC, Singapore Environment Council, National Environment Agency, The Courage Fund Limited and Northlight School. Ms Kuok has received the Distinguished Service Order, Meritorious Service Medal, the Public Service Star (BEM) and the Public Service Medal (PSM) from the President of Singapore in 2023, 2015, 2005 and 1998 respectively. The Singapore Tourism Board honoured her with its Inaugural Award for Lifetime Achievement for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism in 2009 and its Special Recognition Award in 2004. Ms Kuok is an Advocate and Solicitor (Barrister-at-Law) from Grays Inn, London. Please refer to Annexe 1 for the Citation for Ms Kuok. 2026 Honorary Doctor of Letters Recipient Professor Lim Pin Professor Lim Pin is University Professor and Professor of Medicine at NUS. He is also the longest-serving Vice-Chancellor at NUS and the first professor to be conferred NUS' highest academic appointment, University Professor. A Queen's Scholar in 1957, Prof Lim trained in Queens College Cambridge and Kings College Hospital London before returning to Singapore to build a career that spanned clinical medicine, research, and higher education leadership. He made foundational contributions in research on magnesium metabolism, renal disease, thyroid disorders, and diabetes, publishing his findings in The New England Journal of Medicine and the British Medical Journal, and elevating local biomedical research to the world stage. Prof Lim served as NUS Head of Medicine, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and subsequently Vice-Chancellor in 1981. He created and strengthened a lasting research culture on campus, tying promotion to research output and championing interdisciplinary collaboration. At the end of his tenure as Vice Chancellor in 2000, NUS had a multi-million-dollar annual research budget and half a dozen research institutes. He also transformed the way students learned, introducing the small-group tutorial system, the semester module structure, and the internet on campus. Beyond the university, Prof Lim's counsel has been widely sought on matters of national importance. He chaired the National Biotechnology Committee and the Bioethics Advisory Committee, among others, earning a reputation for rigour, integrity and balance across science, ethics and public policy. His achievements have also been recognised at the highest levels, both nationally and internationally, including receiving the Public Administration Medal (Gold) (PPA), Meritorious Service Medal (PJG) and Distinguished Service Order (DUBC) from the President of Singapore in 1984, 1990 and 2000 respectively. Please refer to Annexe 2 for the Citation for Prof Lim. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/09/1140235/nuclear-reactor-milestone-criticality/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0000 I was really looking forward to July 4, and not just because I love a poolside barbecue. This year the American holiday also marked a big symbolic deadline for US nuclear power. Last year the Trump administration set a goal to see three new microreactors achieve criticality, a technical milestone establishing that a reactor can University/MIT_Technology https://news.mit.edu/2026/bringing-data-to-every-sideline-henry-wang-0709 Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 I want every kid who plays sports to have the best experience possible, because I know how meaningful that can be toward someones life journey, Henry Wang says. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/no-one-path-or-timeline-but-the-courage-to-pursue-a-passion/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 09:30:00 +0800 As NUS celebrates Commencement 2026, two graduates from NUS Nursing and the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy show how a desire to serve can open new paths at any stage of life. One left behind the corporate boardroom after a 25-year career, while the others journey into international affairs was inspired by the 2004 tsunami. Whether its overcoming the age barrier or going the distance, these two graduates show how their thirst for learning can never be quenched. More than that, their NUS experience has also ignited their passion to give back. Brian Ang: From numbers to nursing By age 14, Brian Ang was determined to become a doctor, drawn by his interest in biology. But when he did not qualify for the triple science stream in secondary school, a key requirement to study medicine in university at that time, he had to rethink his path ahead. He eventually chose to pursue actuarial studies at the Australian National University on a scholarship from the institution, building a successful career in a very different field. Over 25 years in the insurance sector, Brian rose through the ranks to become Chief Actuary for Asia-Pacific in a multinational corporation based in Sydney, Australia, then moved to Hong Kong before eventually coming back to Singapore in 2012. Yet, even though he enjoyed his role as an actuary, his passion for healthcare never quite went away. With his 50s approaching and having reached what he felt was the pinnacle of his career, Brian began thinking seriously about whether he could still make that long-held passion for healthcare a part of his life. He considered different pathways into the field, which included a postgraduate medical degree and a Bachelor of Science (Nursing) degree via the Career Conversion Programme for Registered Nurses (CCP-RN) at the NUS Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies (NUS Nursing), which would take two years to complete. I wanted to work closely with patients, support them through their care journey, and be part of the team delivering care on the ground, he said. The CCP-RN felt like the right path because it would allow me to make that transition sooner and contribute in a practical and meaningful way. With full support from his wife and two teenage sons, he enrolled in the two-year BSc (Nursing) programme at NUS Nursing in 2024. His sons were particularly excited that their father was in school again. They think it's pretty cool for Dad to be a full-time student, like they are, said Brian, now 51. In the programme, what he found refreshing was learning together with people from different backgrounds, like fresh A-level graduates, nursing students from polytechnic, and also people who were his age. We actually blended in together, studying common subjects. That was by far the biggest highlight, he said. Brian admits to struggling at times to keep up with the use of technology in daily interactions and class assignments. I had to quickly learn what a Tele-Bubble was as that was how my classmates were communicating with one another! he quipped. I will do my work in PowerPoint, and then these digitally-savvy kids have to then translate it into Canva on my behalf, he said with a chuckle. But over time, I got used to working their way as well, he added. He appreciated the academic rigour of the biological side of nursing, but was pleasantly surprised to also learn about palliative care, public and community health, ethics, and professionalism. These modules provide nursing students with a holistic framework of healthcare beyond bedside duties, contextualising our roles within the systemic challenges of an ageing population, he said. Clinical attachments helped him narrow down his interests, and he now hopes to pursue clinical research nursing in the long term. In particular, he is interested in the role of a clinical translator someone who helps turn research and lab discoveries into real-world treatments, tools or improvements in patient care. After graduation, Brian will begin his two-year bond as a Staff Nurse at National University Hospital. Returning to school has reinforced the value of lifelong learning for him. To me, lifelong learning is ultimately about having the willingness to remain teachable at any stage of life, he said. We can take the valuable skills weve spent decades building and redirect them towards a service to society. Hafiz Maruf Akbar: From kampung boy to Masters holder When Hafiz Maruf Akbars hometown of Aceh was hit by one of the most devastating tsunami in history that killed over 170,000 in 2004, he was only four years old. Yet, the tragic destruction of his hometown remains seared in his mind. Beyond rebuilding the flattened village, the global attention that followed piqued his interest in the world. As a child, I could not fully understand the scale of what had happened, but I remember seeing people from all over the world coming to Aceh to help us rebuild, he said. It made me realise that my small hometown was connected to something much bigger. I kept wondering: how does the world work, and how do people come together in times of crisis? The self-professed kampung boy lived in Aceh for the first 17 years of his life, finishing his high school education there, before moving to Jakarta to pursue a Bachelor in International Affairs on a scholarship at Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah. We realised that the disparity in the quality of education between the rural areas and the capital was very huge, he explained. If I wanted to grow and expose myself to more opportunities, I knew I had to leave Aceh and continue my education elsewhere. His move to Jakarta also paved the way for his younger brother, who later joined him in the capital to attend high school on a scholarship. For the family, education became a way to look beyond the limits of what was available in Aceh. For him, leaving home was part of merantau, an Indonesian word commonly used in Sumatra that captures the idea of venturing beyond ones hometown in search of knowledge and success before eventually returning to the community to give back. After graduation, Hafiz worked in Indonesia as a policy analyst in the private sector for one-and-a-half years. The role gave him a closer look at how policy decisions could shape lives and communities but it also made him realise how much more he wanted to learn and deepen his understanding of international affairs, sharpen his policy skills. This led him to enrol at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) at NUS in 2024 to pursue a Master in International Affairs on the Low Tuck Kwong Foundation Scholarship. LKYSPP stood out to him for its strong focus on Southeast Asia, a region he had grown up in but wanted to understand more deeply. Coming from Indonesia, I wanted to study international affairs from a Southeast Asian perspective, not just through theories developed elsewhere, he said. Singapore is at the heart of the region, and LKYSPP gave me the chance to learn from professors and classmates who brought different experiences from across Asia and beyond. The skills he picked up proved useful when he returned to his hometown. When severe flooding struck Aceh in 2025, Hafiz was on the ground as a volunteer liaison, helping draft letters to the Indonesian government to allow the international community to enter and assist with relief efforts. Outside of academics, he was heavily involved in the Schools football tournaments and was also Resident Assistant (RA) at College Green, the dedicated university housing for NUS postgraduate students. One particularly unforgettable moment as an RA involved dealing with wildlife on campus. Together with the relevant authorities, we successfully secured a baby cobra and also handled a monitor lizard situation, said Hafiz with a laugh. It certainly wasn't in the job description, but it's a story I'll never forget! With merantau in mind and his familys support, he completed his Masters Programme and was conferred the Deans Leadership Award at LKYSPP in 2026, an honour recognising his leadership contributions both within the School and the wider community. Hafiz, who is considering a career in international development, credits the School with equipping him with useful skills and experiences. Through coursework, interaction with diverse classmates, and real-world experiences like the Aceh flood response, I've developed a deeper understanding of how policy, humanitarian action, and development intersect, he said. This story is part of NUS News coverage of Commencement 2026 , celebrating the achievements of our graduates from the Class of 2026. For more, read our stories and graduate profiles, check out the official Commencement website , or look up and tag #NUS2026 on our social media channels! University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/biomni-ai-powered-biomedical-co-scientist Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 In creating a comprehensive, AI-enabled research agent for the biomedical sciences, Stanford researchers hope to speed innovation by eliminating the tedium of scientific legwork. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/opioid-tapering-chronic-pain-patients-research Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 In a new Stanford study, a slow, patient-controlled approach helped about half of chronic pain patients cut their opioid dose by half – without increased pain – over one year. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/low-skilled-workers-ai-earnings-research Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 As AI simplifies job tasks, new research finds the biggest wage gains may go to workers who currently earn the least. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/statistical-test-personalization-k-fold Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Stanford researchers have developed an effective statistical measure of the real-world benefits of tailoring interventions like job training, coursework, and medical treatments to individuals. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/biomni-ai-powered-biomedical-co-scientist Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 In creating a comprehensive, AI-enabled research agent for the biomedical sciences, Stanford researchers hope to speed innovation by eliminating the tedium of scientific legwork. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/opioid-tapering-chronic-pain-patients-research Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 In a new Stanford study, a slow, patient-controlled approach helped about half of chronic pain patients cut their opioid dose by half without increased pain over one year. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/low-skilled-workers-ai-earnings-research Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 As AI simplifies job tasks, new research finds the biggest wage gains may go to workers who currently earn the least. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/statistical-test-personalization-k-fold Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Stanford researchers have developed an effective statistical measure of the real-world benefits of tailoring interventions like job training, coursework, and medical treatments to individuals. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/research-matters-will-chueh Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 AI is contributing to a rising demand for electricity a pressing sustainability challenge. Professor Will Chueh says it can also be part of the solution. University/Stanford_News https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/uk-adults-increasingly-seek-emotional-support-and-companionship-from-ai-new-report-finds/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 23:01:20 +0000 New analysis from researchers at the Oxford Internet Institute reveals that users of artificial intelligence tools are increasingly turning to them for personal support, emotional advice, and companionship. University/Oxford_University https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/uk-adults-increasingly-seek-emotional-support-and-companionship-from-ai-new-report-finds/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 23:01:20 +0000 New analysis from researchers at the Oxford Internet Institute reveals that users of artificial intelligence tools are increasingly turning to them for personal support, emotional advice, and companionship. University/Oxford_University https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/nfl-players-4-times-more-likely-to-die-of-brain-disease-study-finds/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:23:21 +0000 Despite living longer overall, neurodegenerative mortality risk dramatically elevated University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/nfl-players-4-times-more-likely-to-die-of-brain-disease-study-finds/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 20:23:21 +0000 Despite living longer overall, neurodegenerative mortality risk dramatically elevated University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.mit.edu/2026/ana-miljacki-named-head-department-architecture-0708 Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:00:00 -0400 Ana Miljački, the Francis White Davis Professor of Architecture at MIT, began her tenure as head of the MIT Department of Architecture on July 1. University/MIT_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/losing-sleep-is-bad-for-individuals-communities-too/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:52:59 +0000 Researchers look to fill knowledge gap, push for studies of what happens to health of groups when major events disrupt rest University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/losing-sleep-is-bad-for-individuals-communities-too/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:52:59 +0000 Researchers look to fill knowledge gap, push for studies of what happens to health of groups when major events disrupt rest University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/the-bear-nonchalant-me-more-chalant/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:52:00 +0000 Wooly visitor shakes up already challenging 460-mile summertime solo canoe trip through Yukon wilderness University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/the-bear-nonchalant-me-more-chalant/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:52:00 +0000 Wooly visitor shakes up already challenging 460-mile summertime solo canoe trip through Yukon wilderness University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/rubies-decoded-color-is-just-one-piece-of-the-puzzle/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:43:51 +0000 Rare gems shine in new Harvard exhibit University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/rubies-decoded-color-is-just-one-piece-of-the-puzzle/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:43:51 +0000 Rare gems shine in new Harvard exhibit University/Harvard_Gazette https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/07/08/artsci-roundup-summer-of-2026/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:36:20 +0000 Come curious. Leave inspired. Wherever you are, the University of Washington offers opportunities to learn and connect with the ideas, people, and research shaping our world. This summer, visit campus for the latest exhibitions at the Henry Art Gallery and Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, or join us from anywhere through recorded lectures, podcasts, virtual experiences, and more. As a public university, we’re proud to share the knowledge, creativity, and discoveries of the UW with communities near and... University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/07/08/artsci-roundup-summer-of-2026/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 19:36:20 +0000 Come curious. Leave inspired. Wherever you are, the University of Washington offers opportunities to learn and connect with the ideas, people, and research shaping our world. This summer, visit campus for the latest exhibitions at the Henry Art Gallery and Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, or join us from anywhere through recorded lectures, podcasts, virtual experiences, and more. As a public university, were proud to share the knowledge, creativity, and discoveries of the UW with communities near and... University/University_of_Washington_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/separating-logic-and-language-0708 Wed, 08 Jul 2026 15:35:00 -0400 A functional brain scan of a neurotypical participant in a new study shows a distinct separation between logic (green) and language (red/yellow) activations. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-designed-educational-factory-embraces-modern-manufacturing-0708 Wed, 08 Jul 2026 15:15:00 -0400 Tecnológico de Monterrey students who participated in an MIT research internship program pose together with MIT students. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/08/1140223/emtech-ai-2026-the-rise-of-the-ai-platform/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:26:10 +0000 University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/research-reshapes-rules-genetic-crossovers Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:07:50 +0000 A Cornell-led study is challenging a decades-old explanation for how chromosomes exchange genetic material within the biological process that forms eggs and sperm in mammals. University/Cornell_Life_Science https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/research-reshapes-rules-genetic-crossovers Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:07:50 +0000 A Cornell-led study is challenging a decades-old explanation for how chromosomes exchange genetic material within the biological process that forms eggs and sperm in mammals. University/Cornell_Life_Science https://news.nus.edu.sg/singapore-youth-dikir-barat-festival-brings-together-the-dikir-barat-community-at-the-malay-heritage-centre-on-11-july/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 23:12:00 +0800 Berita Harian, 8 July 2026, p4 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-engineers-whip-up-more-breathable-hydrogel-0708 Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0400 Now that weve added air to hydrogels, people can find broad applications, says Xuanhe Zhao. Here, a rectangular hydrogel floats on top of water. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-researcher-proposes-way-to-detect-nuclear-weapons-in-space-0708 Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:00:00 -0400 MIT Professor Areg Danagoulian is proposing a way to determine if a satellite contains a nuclear weapon. University/MIT_News https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/07/08/princeton-professors-andrea-bernstein-ethan-kapstein-and-sean-wilentz-receive Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:19:00 -0400 Bernstein and Wilentz will both pursue book projects during a semester in Germany. Kapstein will work on a research project. They are among 24 fellowship recipients. University/Princeton_University_News https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/07/08/princeton-professors-andrea-bernstein-ethan-kapstein-and-sean-wilentz-receive Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:19:00 -0400 Bernstein and Wilentz will both pursue book projects during a semester in Germany. Kapstein will work on a research project. They are among 24 fellowship recipients. University/Princeton_University_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/chinas-pollution-declines-came-cost Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:07:59 +0000 China’s Scientific Outlook on Development program, which tied local leaders’ job performance evaluations to environmental quality improvements, had negative impacts on the country's agricultural economy, researchers found. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/chinas-pollution-declines-came-cost Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:07:59 +0000 Chinas Scientific Outlook on Development program, which tied local leaders job performance evaluations to environmental quality improvements, had negative impacts on the country's agricultural economy, researchers found. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/nys-stewards-spur-absolutely-critical-local-action-climate-change Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:07:36 +0000 The Cornell Climate Stewards program gives New York state residents the tools and confidence to address the impacts of climate change in their communities. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/nys-stewards-spur-absolutely-critical-local-action-climate-change Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:07:36 +0000 The Cornell Climate Stewards program gives New York state residents the tools and confidence to address the impacts of climate change in their communities. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/08/1140216/the-download-worms-manure-pollution-geoengineering-reality-check/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. Why worms (and microbes) are catching on as a manure pollution solution Anthony Agueda, a third-generation California dairy farmer, pulls a rake through a bed of dark, wet wood chips to University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/what-social-media-creators-cant-say-about-their-job Wed, 08 Jul 2026 10:07:00 +0000 Online content creator burnout is, in part, “unspeakable” – a product of a confluence of factors, including the informal nature of platform labor and the privileged status of creative work, seen by many as a “dream job.” University/Cornell_Social_Behavioural https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/what-social-media-creators-cant-say-about-their-job Wed, 08 Jul 2026 10:07:00 +0000 Online content creator burnout is, in part, unspeakable a product of a confluence of factors, including the informal nature of platform labor and the privileged status of creative work, seen by many as a dream job. University/Cornell_Social_Behavioural https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/ai-research-team-could-streamline-clinical-trial-design Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:07:42 +0000 An artificial intelligence system that operates like a collaborative team of medical experts could accelerate clinical trial design, one of the most difficult steps in drug development. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/ai-research-team-could-streamline-clinical-trial-design Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:07:42 +0000 An artificial intelligence system that operates like a collaborative team of medical experts could accelerate clinical trial design, one of the most difficult steps in drug development. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/climate-change-leaves-northern-tree-swallows-most-vulnerable Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:07:04 +0000 Tree swallows in the northern U.S. and Canada face the greatest risk from climate change despite responding to temperature the same way as tree swallows in the southern U.S. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/climate-change-leaves-northern-tree-swallows-most-vulnerable Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:07:04 +0000 Tree swallows in the northern U.S. and Canada face the greatest risk from climate change despite responding to temperature the same way as tree swallows in the southern U.S. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/arthur-fery-wimbledon-stanford-tennis Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A Cardinal alum who grew up steps from the All England Club, Fery faces Alexander Zverev in Fridays semifinal becoming the first Stanford player to reach that stage since John McEnroe in 1992. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/world-cup-stanford-medicine Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Meet the Stanford Medicine emergency physicians and nurses who helped safeguard athletes and officials during FIFA World Cup games at Levis Stadium. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/timothy-g-lynch-new-general-counsel Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Lynch will begin serving as the university general counsel in August following the retirement of Debra Zumwalt. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/piano-keyboard-design-standard-narrow-women-research Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Only 13 percent of women can comfortably span an octave on a standard piano. Few thought to ask whether the piano was the problem. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/hot-dry-weather-climate-change-water-bills-research Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Researchers say climate adaptation and water affordability are on a collision course, with resilience costs falling hardest on those who can least afford them. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/ai-expands-the-boundaries-of-discovery Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 AI is helping scientists model human cells, decode the universe, and accelerate discovery across nearly every field. Here are some key innovations from across campus. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/researchers-confirm-cause-earths-biggest-mass-extinction Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Stanford scientists have directly linked the disappearance of once-dominant marine groups to intolerable heat and diminished oxygen in ancient oceans. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/01/professor-student-team-from-stanford-law-schools-rhode-center-wins-2026-civil-justice-scholarship-award Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A team from Stanford Law Schools Rhode Center received the award for a study analyzing Californias STAND Act and its impact on non-disclosure agreements. University/Stanford_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/how-liberal-law-school-professors-fueled-rise-of-federalist-society/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:46:10 +0000 New book traces broad campaign to combat what organizers viewed as takeover of nation’s legal system by forces of ‘radical’ liberalism University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/how-liberal-law-school-professors-fueled-rise-of-federalist-society/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:46:10 +0000 New book traces broad campaign to combat what organizers viewed as takeover of nations legal system by forces of radical liberalism University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/think-shark-tank-without-the-teeth/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:22:16 +0000 Dermatologist gets advice from investors at Harvards Guppy Tank on new antibody that could help most sun-sensitive patients University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/tracing-evolution-of-vaccine-for-cancer-malaria/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:48:54 +0000 Technology born out of Harvard labs shows power of collaboration, how path to development seldom follows straight line University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/tracing-evolution-of-vaccine-for-cancer-malaria/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:48:54 +0000 Technology born out of Harvard labs shows power of collaboration, how path to development seldom follows straight line University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.mit.edu/2026/the-brains-internal-ruler-0707 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:40:00 -0400 Neurons in the brain stem (green) represent individual whiskers on a mouses face. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/how-novice-coders-can-develop-ai-programs-for-military-applications-0707 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:25:00 -0400 Molding AI is an iterative process to find where capabilities intersect user needs. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/many-black-holes-had-past-lives-new-research-shows-0707 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0400 Some merging black holes may be second-generation black holes that formed from the previous merging of two smaller black holes, according to a new study. Pictured is an artists concept of the hierarchical formation of black holes. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/hydrogen-clean-fuel-of-the-future-if-we-can-ship-it-0707 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:10:00 -0400 The Hydrogen Carrier Analysis Tool (HyCAT), developed by a MITEI-led team, helps users determine the costs and carbon emissions incurred when transporting and delivering hydrogen fuel. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/jazz-pop-spice-up-piano-festival-under-albert-tius-direction/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 23:03:00 +0800 The Straits Times, 7 July 2026, Life, pC5 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/jesse-thaler-named-director-laboratory-nuclear-science-0707 Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:45:00 -0400 Jesse Thaler combines techniques from quantum field theory and machine learning to address outstanding questions in fundamental physics. University/MIT_News https://news.umich.edu/majority-of-michigans-local-leaders-see-state-moving-in-wrong-direction-u-m-survey-finds/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:38:29 +0000 A majority of local government officials in Michigan say the state is on the wrong track, according to a new University of Michigan survey that reverses a three-year trend in improving attitudes about the state's overall direction. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/07/1140197/the-download-your-openai-stake-treasury-ai-warning/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. Your familys $300 stake in OpenAI Sam Altmans proposal that Americans should share in the wealth created by AI is back in the spotlight, with reports that he is discussing giving University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/07/1139413/the-foundational-elements-of-ai-architecture-that-it-leaders-need-to-scale/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:10:52 +0000 With the rapid progress of AI capabilities and the move to agentic systems, organizations are expanding their use cases as the technology continues to grow. That constant evolution also introduces risk, leaving IT leaders to wonder which investments will prove valuable even six months into the future. Returning to the foundational elements of AI architecturethe University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/cti-announces-2026-winners-ye-awards-graduate-achievements-teaching Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:07:11 +0000 This year's University-Wide graduate teaching conference celebrated excellence in teaching, recognizing Margaret Foster and Naman Agrawal with the Cornelia Ye and Christine Ye Awards for Outstanding Teaching Assistance. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/cti-announces-2026-winners-ye-awards-graduate-achievements-teaching Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:07:11 +0000 This year's University-Wide graduate teaching conference celebrated excellence in teaching, recognizing Margaret Foster and Naman Agrawal with the Cornelia Ye and Christine Ye Awards for Outstanding Teaching Assistance. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/key-gut-protein-balances-immune-protection-and-tolerance Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:07:00 +0000 A protein produced by gut immune cells orchestrates both immune protection against pathogens and immune tolerance of gut bacteria. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/key-gut-protein-balances-immune-protection-and-tolerance Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:07:00 +0000 A protein produced by gut immune cells orchestrates both immune protection against pathogens and immune tolerance of gut bacteria. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/if-you-can-keep-it-cornell-scholars-tackle-democracys-modern-threats Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:07:07 +0000 From the early days of Cornell’s founding to the present, scholars have studied the idea and the practice of democracy. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/if-you-can-keep-it-cornell-scholars-tackle-democracys-modern-threats Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:07:07 +0000 From the early days of Cornells founding to the present, scholars have studied the idea and the practice of democracy. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/07/1140142/why-worms-and-microbes-are-catching-on-as-a-manure-pollution-solution/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000 Anthony Agueda, a third-generation California dairy farmer, pulls a rake through a bed of dark, wet wood chips on his familys land in Hickman, a tiny town in the states agricultural heartland. He reaches down with both hands and pulls up a clump of muck, turning it over to reveal a half-dozen squirming red earthworms. University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/sgx-ipo-revival-why-more-companies-are-eyeing-singapore-listings-in-2026/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:20:00 +0800 CNA Online, 7 July 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/anglers-and-researchers-document-east-coast-fish-species-ahead-of-long-island-development-project/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:18:00 +0800 8world Online, 7 July 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/reinventing-paediatric-dental-training-at-nus/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:41:53 +0800 Managing pediatric dental patients can be stressful for dental students and inexperienced practitioners, particularly when communicating with fearful and uncooperative children. Previous studies had found that dental students experience three times the stress levels when compared to seasoned specialists. Delivering effective behaviour guidance in clinical settings demands confidence, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt in real time qualities typically developed through personalised faculty feedback during live sessions. Now, educators at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Faculty of Dentistry have identified a promising approach to enhance the efficiency and scalability of this training process. In a recent study published in the scientific journal, JMIR Medical Education , Dr Ishreen Kaur, Dr Gabriel Lee, and Associate Professor Hu Shijia demonstrated that dental students skills in handling childrens behaviour can be accurately assessed using only text transcripts. Their findings revealed that transcript-based evaluations produced results comparable to those obtained from full video-recorded clinical session assessments. These findings could significantly reduce the time and manpower required for clinical teaching, especially in settings where faculty resources are stretched. Instead of reviewing lengthy videos, educators may be able to assess student performance more quickly through transcripts, while still delivering meaningful personalised feedback. Assoc Prof Hu said, These findings allow us to enhance training for our dental students by providing more personalised and insightful feedback on their interactions with young patients. With a better understanding of each students needs, we can better tailor our training to help them grow into more confident and effective dentists, ultimately providing better care for young patients. If proven effective, this method could potentially be adapted to other disciplines to enhance patient communication and applied in broader healthcare contexts, such as nursing and medicine, to improve the management of child patients. The study also highlights the future potential of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in dental education. Because transcript-based evaluations can be processed digitally, the approach opens the door for AI-powered large language models (LLMs) to assist in analysing student interactions and generating feedback. In the long term, the NUS Dentistry team envisions the development of a virtual mentor system that could support clinical training, helping dental students build confidence and communication skills in paediatric care while enabling teaching faculty to focus on higher-level mentorship and more personalised guidance. To this end, the research team has also received a Ministry of Education Tertiary Education Research Fund grant to carry out a follow-up study to assess the effectiveness of using AI to provide feedback to dental students on their behaviour management skills during actual clinical sessions. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/europes-unfinished-market-and-why-it-matters-to-southeast-asia/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:30:00 +0800 Dr Enrico Letta, former Prime Minister of Italy, author of "Much More Than a Market," and Dean of IE Universitys School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs, made the case for a more integrated Europe during recent dialogue held at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy In the 1990s, Germanys economy was roughly the size of China and India combined. Today, those two Asian giants together are twenty times larger. For Dr Enrico Letta, the statistic explains why Europes long-debated and long-deferred project of completing its single market has suddenly become urgent. Speaking at the dialogue hosted by the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in June 2026, the former Italian premier said the world has changed dramatically since Europes last major wave of integration. The dialogue was chaired by Associate Professor Francesco Mancini , and attended by over 120 researchers and academics, students, policymakers and diplomats. "Why now?" Dr Letta asked, "Because of the rise of giants: China, India. The integration achieved in the 1980s and 1990s, he said, was a remarkable success. But the world didn't stand still. Launched in the early 1990s, the European single market is one of the most ambitious economic integration projects in history. It guarantees four freedoms the free movement of goods, services, capital and people across what is now 27 member states along with Norway, Iceland Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Together, they represent 450 million consumers and roughly 17 trillion dollars in GDP, comparable to the United States or China. But the market was never truly completed. When the euro arrived in 2002, integration stalled. The result, Dr Letta argues, is that Europe operates as 27 separate economies in precisely the domains where scale matters most. To illustrate this, Dr Letta explained that as someone who divides his time between Italy, France and Spain, he carries three phones with three SIM cards. "Why?" he asked the audience. "Because we have 27 markets, he stated, each with its own national telecom regime. The financial fragmentation runs even deeper. The European Union accounts for 18 per cent of world GDP, yet European financial markets represent only around 12 per cent of global market capitalisation. The United States, with a quarter of world GDP, commands 60 per cent. The consequence is that everyday credit card transactions across Europe flow through American financial infrastructure. When you buy a pizza in Rome, a fee goes to the United States. Because the US is the superpower of finance, Dr Letta said, due to the fragmentation of the rest. Dr Letta's response to this fragmentation was his report, commissioned by the EU and published in April 2024. The report led directly to the EU's adoption of the One Europe, One Market roadmap at the European Council in April 2025. The plan encompasses 42 measures with hard deadlines running to the end of 2027. One third have already been presented to the European Parliament. "A public policy without a deadline, Dr Letta joked, "is an academic debate." The measures include a Savings and Investments Union to redirect Europe's substantial private savings into productive investment; an Energy Union to integrate 27 separate national grids; and what Dr Letta calls the "28th Regime" a virtual European corporate law framework that any company can opt into, allowing it to operate across the entire single market under a single set of rules. The roadmap would also add a fifth freedom for innovation, skills and research to the original four that defined the single market. The unlikely accelerant During the dialogue session, Assoc Prof Mancini noted that the plan contained some very concrete ideas and a quite ambitious timetable. In response to what could be driving this sudden acceleration, Dr Letta invoked his favourite philosopher to manage expectations. "Mike Tyson used to say everyone has a plan until you get punched in the mouth. So yes, we need a plan. But we need also determination, flexibility, and the capacity to implement step by step." A turning point came with Greenland, when the United States signalled that it regarded a piece of sovereign European territory as a potential acquisition. For EU member states, the episode was galvanising. "European member states started saying: we have to change. We have to react." The transatlantic crisis that followed, with trade tensions, NATO uncertainty, and the withdrawal of US engagement from multilateral institutions, created the political urgency that integration had always lacked in peacetime. "Trump is a great federator of the European Union. I'm sure that is not his primary mission. But the outcome is that the acceleration he brought to European integration is absolutely unique," said Dr Letta. The China conundrum Europe's strategic recalibration does not reduce neatly to a pro-American, anti-Chinese realignment. Its relationship with China is more complicated. Europe has committed to decarbonisation, Dr Letta said. Much of the technology needed to achieve it, such as solar panels, wind components, and related infrastructure, is Chinese-made. At the same time, the EU's Industrial Accelerator Act aims to build domestic supply chains and reduce strategic dependencies. Dr Letta said, Exclude Chinese technology and Europe's decarbonisation path suffers. Continue relying on it without protection, and Europe risks deepening its industrial dependency. The challenge is finding a balance. Why Southeast Asia should be watching Bringing the discussion closer to home, Assoc Prof Mancini asked what Europes recalibration could mean for Singapore and ASEAN. For Dr Letta, the timing is significant. Next year marks the 50th anniversary of EU-ASEAN relations, with Singapore holding the ASEAN chair. The EU wants to use that moment to upgrade the relationship to a "fundamental strategic partnership." Both the EU and ASEAN are consequential actors trying to preserve strategic autonomy in a world increasingly dominated by Washington and Beijing. Both have an institutional commitment to multilateralism and the rule of law. Neither can afford to be absorbed into one camp or the other. A comprehensive EU-ASEAN trade agreement remains a work in progress, complicated by sensitive issues within the bloc, foremost among them Myanmar. But Dr Letta outlined a pragmatic path: an agreement involving willing ASEAN members, with opt-outs or exclusions where necessary, rather than waiting for unanimity. The bilateral agreements already in place with Singapore and Vietnam, and the recently concluded deal with Indonesia, provide a growing foundation. For ASEAN policymakers, business leaders and academics, the question is not whether Europe's internal reform is interesting. It is whether a more integrated and more strategically coherent Europe could become a different kind of partner for this part of the world. Dr Letta's answer was an unambiguous yes. The giants woke Europe up. What Europe does next will matter well beyond its borders. By Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at NUS University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/07/06/uw-kicks-off-one-year-study-to-explore-expansion-and-address-needs-for-health-care-impactful-research/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:45:43 +0000 The University of Washington is exploring a significant redevelopment and expansion of UW Medical Center–Montlake, the Magnuson Health Sciences Center and west campus. University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/07/06/uw-kicks-off-one-year-study-to-explore-expansion-and-address-needs-for-health-care-impactful-research/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 21:45:43 +0000 The University of Washington is exploring a significant redevelopment and expansion of UW Medical CenterMontlake, the Magnuson Health Sciences Center and west campus. University/University_of_Washington_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/world-is-designed-by-for-men-it-shouldnt-be/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:42:12 +0000 Karen Korellis Reuther explains why it’s a problem (dangerous, even) in products, how more inclusive design serves everyone University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/world-is-designed-by-for-men-it-shouldnt-be/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 19:42:12 +0000 Karen Korellis Reuther explains why its a problem (dangerous, even) in products, how more inclusive design serves everyone University/Harvard_Gazette https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/06/1140176/your-familys-300-stake-in-openai/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:00:00 +0000 This story originally appeared in The Algorithm, our weekly newsletter on AI. To get stories like this in your inbox first, sign up here. OpenAI CEO Sam Altmans oft-discussed promise that Americans will share in the wealth AI creates was in the news again last week. On Thursday, the Financial Times reported that Altman is in University/MIT_Technology https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/sunlight-is-not-your-enemy/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:36:17 +0000 Health benefits outweigh the risks for most of us, according to new book University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/sunlight-is-not-your-enemy/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:36:17 +0000 Health benefits outweigh the risks for most of us, according to new book University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.mit.edu/2026/discovery-helps-explain-why-solid-state-batteries-often-fail-0706 Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0400 MIT and Technical University of Munich researchers uncovered tiny electrical imbalances between crystals of solid electrolyte material that hurt the performance of solid-state batteries. University/MIT_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-to-launch-minor-in-criminal-justice-from-jan-2027/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:59:00 +0800 The Straits Times, 6 July 2026, Singapore, pA12 Money 89.3FM, 6 July 2026 Kiss92 FM, 6 July 2026 One FM 91.3, 6 July 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/we-cant-wait-for-an-ai-crisis-before-taking-action/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:57:00 +0800 By Prof Simon Chesterman, NUS Vice Provost (Educational Innovation) and Dean of NUS College at NUS The Straits Times, 6 July 2026, Opinion, pB2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-study-strict-parenting-backfires-increasing-childrens-negative-self-evaluation-and-tendency-to-lie/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 22:55:00 +0800 Lianhe Zaobao, 6 July 2026, Singapore, p5 Lianhe Zaobao, 6 July 2026, Singapore, p5 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.umich.edu/discovering-the-most-ancient-quasars-in-the-universe/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000 University of Michigan researchers were part of an international team that used the European Space Agency's Euclid space telescope to discover 31 of the most ancient quasars ever observed. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/discovering-the-most-ancient-quasars-in-the-universe/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000 University of Michigan researchers were part of an international team that used the European Space Agency's Euclid space telescope to discover 31 of the most ancient quasars ever observed. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/06/1140172/the-download-south-korea-ai-chipworkers-eye-transplants/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. South Koreas hottest new bachelors are chip workers Baek, a 35-year-old manager at the South Korean semiconductor titan SK Hynix, was enrolled in a matchmaking company a year ago. In a University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/inside-baseball-ai-enabled-enforcement-tech-takes-time-testing Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:07:22 +0000 Training artificial intelligence to enforce even seemingly straightforward rules – like balls and strikes in Major League Baseball – is a messy, dynamic process that takes time and careful evaluation of the technology. University/Cornell_Computing_Information_Science https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/inside-baseball-ai-enabled-enforcement-tech-takes-time-testing Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:07:22 +0000 Training artificial intelligence to enforce even seemingly straightforward rules like balls and strikes in Major League Baseball is a messy, dynamic process that takes time and careful evaluation of the technology. University/Cornell_Computing_Information_Science https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/06/1140000/south-korea-bachelors-samsung-skhynix-chip-workers/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 Baek, a 35-year-old manager at the South Korean semiconductor titan SK Hynix, was enrolled in Sunoo, a matchmaking company based in Seoul, a year ago. In a move typical of anxious South Korean parents, his mother signed him up, hoping to find a good wife for her son. Lately, says Baek (who asked to be University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-homecoming-2026-welcomes-alumni-back-to-campus/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:06:50 +0800 Hundreds of alumni returned to campus on 27 June for NUS Homecoming 2026, reconnecting with old friends and revisiting familiar spaces in a day of learning, discovery and celebration. Held at University Town on the Kent Ridge campus, the event unfolded with expert talks, live band performances, showcase booths and durian tasting. Throughout the afternoon and evening, participants explored new ideas, picked up practical insights and created new memories with fellow graduates. Learning, reconnecting and coming home At the fireside reflections with fellows from the Distinguished Senior Fellowship Programme , alumni explored a question that feels increasingly urgent in an age of longer lifespans: how does one thrive in the 100-year life? For nature lovers and alumni who brought their little ones along content creator Ms Kong Man Jing (Science 17), also known as Biogirl MJ, hosted a lively showcase on Singapores marine biodiversity, inviting curious questions through specimens such as a sharks egg case. Among the young minds piqued by the display were the two daughters of Ms Poh Ping Qi (Arts & Social Sciences 10), aged five and seven. We brought our kids along for exposure and to learn something new, and because we wanted to inspire our kids and show them this was their parents school, Ms Poh shared. That spirit of reconnection ran through the wider Homecoming programme, with space set aside for alumni group gatherings, board game sessions and informal catch-ups. A day of joy and celebration It was also a year of milestones, marked by a cake-cutting ceremony celebrating the 10th anniversary of NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education , the 15th anniversary of the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health and the 110th anniversary of King Edward VII Hall . Together, these moments captured the spirit of Homecoming: a celebration of the communities that make NUS home. At a time when so much of our lives are shaped by technology, gatherings like this remind us of the simple value of being together to catch up, share memories, exchange ideas, and strengthen our sense of community, noted Professor Aaron Thean, NUS Deputy President (Academic Affairs) and Provost, in his remarks at the ceremony. Digital connections and social cohesion The question of what connection means in an increasingly digital world took centre stage at the concurrent Alumni Advocates Connect (AAC) session, where speakers examined whether digitalisation is bringing society together or making its divides harder to ignore. We are living in an era of unprecedented transformation, reflected NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science 85) in his opening remarks. When harnessed wisely, technology magnifies the capacities of the human mind and allows it to do what machines cannot much like the enduring connections that our alumni continue to nurture across the globe. The closed-door panel featured Ms Rahayu Mahzam (Law 03), Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information, and Mr David Cai, Public Policy Leader at TikTok, and was moderated by Associate Professor Carol Soon (Arts & Social Sciences PhD 12) from the Department of Communications and New Media . Speakers noted that while digital platforms have expanded how people connect, they have also accelerated the spread of social fault lines and inequalities. For policymakers, the task is therefore a careful balancing act: closing digital divides, building digital literacy and keeping online spaces safe, without stifling innovation. We have a tough love relationship with tech companies, for instance, Ms Rahayu said, referring to the Governments practical and collaborative approach. We know that they may know more about the technology, but they have a responsibility to use their technology for good, to achieve safety by design and develop products that help people. This makes it important, Mr Cai said, to ensure psychological safety online. For platforms, this means continuing to invest in content moderation, fraud and scam prevention, and technology that can remove harmful content at scale, guided by clear community standards. The discussion underscored the consensus that social cohesion must be built with intention: through policy, platform design, public education, and the everyday care with which people speak, listen and engage. "It's always good to come back and connect with old friends and the school," shared Mr Steven Yeo (Business 04), President of the NUS Business School Alumni Association. "This year's AAC session gave me so much to take away. It sparked great reflection on digitalisation and reminded us how important it is to design inclusively, so that seniors and lower-income households are brought into the digital conversation, not left behind." His reflections captured the spirit of Homecoming 2026 a gathering that brought alumni together not only to reconnect, but also to reflect on the evolving ways in which such connections are formed and sustained. By NUS Office of Alumni Relations University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/tool-clearer-view-dna-regulated/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:39:14 +0800 Researchers from the Cancer Science Institute of Singapore (CSI Singapore) at NUS have developed a new method that allows scientists to better understand how DNA is organised and regulated inside our cells. The study, published in the scientific journal Nature Communications on 26 May 2026, introduces a method called qChIP-MS, which enables researchers to identify groups of proteins that work together at specific locations on DNA. DNA in our cells is packaged into a structure known as chromatin. Chromatin helps determine which genes are switched on or off, protects the genome from damage, and influences how cells respond to stress. Problems in chromatin regulation have been linked to cancer, ageing and other diseases. Understanding which proteins gather at specific regions of the genome is important because these protein networks help control gene activity and influence how cells behave in health and disease. For years, scientists have relied on techniques that allow them to study one protein at a time. While these methods have provided valuable insights, they do not reveal the broader network of proteins working together at a particular location in the genome. "Our DNA is not controlled by a single protein acting alone," said Dr Yong Wai Khang, first author of the study. "Instead, many proteins work together in coordinated complexes. We wanted to develop a practical way to see the full cast of players present at a specific region of our genome." Mapping protein networks on chromatin To address this challenge, the team combined two established technologies chromatin immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry into a single workflow called qChIP-MS. The method enables researchers to enrich selected chromatin regions and identify the proteins associated with them, while also measuring how abundant those proteins are. The researchers validated the technique using telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that play an important role in ageing and cancer. The method successfully identified known telomere-associated proteins and demonstrated that it could be applied to different types of biological samples, including tissues and specific genomic regions. Importantly, the team also developed strategies to reduce false-positive results, a longstanding challenge in chromatin-based studies. By carefully benchmarking the workflow, they established a more reliable approach for interpreting complex chromatin data. While qChIP-MS is primarily a research tool, its potential impact could be far-reaching. By helping scientists understand how proteins interact with chromatin in healthy and diseased cells, the technology may accelerate discoveries in areas such as cancer biology and genome regulation, and could eventually inform future therapeutic strategies. New insights into cancer and genome regulation The researchers are already applying qChIP-MS to study how chromatin changes at telomeres in cancer cells. In particular, they are investigating a process known as Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT), which allows certain cancers to maintain their telomeres and continue dividing. The team also plans to further improve the sensitivity of the technology so that it can be used with smaller sample sizes and applied to increasingly precise regions of the genome. "This work provides researchers with a new way to study how chromatin is organised and regulated," said Assistant Professor Dennis Kappei, senior author of the study and Principal Investigator at CSI Singapore. "We hope it will become a useful addition to the toolbox for scientists investigating fundamental biology and diseases such as cancer." Asst Prof Kappei is also a faculty member at the Department of Biochemistry , and a Theme Co-Lead at NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR) , both within the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine . University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/ai-platform-canvas-tumor-pathology Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Cellular and molecular interactions around tumors give insight into their structures and weaknesses, but measuring them has been expensive and slow. A Stanford Medicine AI platform flips the script. University/Stanford_News https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/ai-powered-social-media-can-subtly-manipulate-opinion-at-scale-new-study-finds/ Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:01:31 +0000 AI tools used to generate, edit or contextualise social media posts can introduce hidden biases that spread through online networks and shape public opinion, according to new research from the OII and the Hasso Plattner Institute. University/Oxford_University https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-students-bring-bugis-hainanese-heritage-back-to-life/ Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:52:00 +0800 zbSunday, 5 July 2026, Fukan, p3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-tamil-language-society-co-organised-tamil-murasus-90th-anniversary-celebrations/ Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:48:00 +0800 Tamil Murasu, 5 July 2026, Community, p12 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/rise-in-out-of-hospital-cardiac-arrests-prompts-local-study-on-effectiveness-of-portable-aeds/ Sun, 05 Jul 2026 22:46:00 +0800 8world Online, 4 July 2026 Channel 8 News, 4 July 2026 Channel U News, 4 July 2026 Capital 95.8FM, 4 July 2026 zbSunday, 5 July 2026, News, p3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/03/1140148/a-device-that-revives-eyeballs-from-dead-donors-could-make-eye-transplants-possible/ Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:34:37 +0000 Its not easy to transplant a whole human eye. The surgery is difficult. And the eyes themselves start to degenerate as soon as theyve left the body. When surgeons attempted it a few years ago, the newly transplanted eye wasnt able to see. But researchers believe they might have a solution: a device that maintains University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/03/1140134/the-download-uk-smoking-ban-elizabeth-bear-story/ Fri, 03 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. The UKs generational tobacco ban might not work. Im supporting it anyway. Jessica Hamzelou As the parent of two little girls, I often think about how their childhood is different from University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/03/1140036/uk-tobacco-ban-might-not-work-children-smoking/ Fri, 03 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 As the parent of two little girls, I often think about how their childhood is different from mine. The seven-year-old is learning about AI at school. The five-year-old is given internet-based homework every week. And they are both absolutely repulsed by the idea of smoking. That was not the prevailing sentiment when I was young. University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/can-jurong-lake-district-become-singapores-second-central-business-district/ Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:08:00 +0800 By Prof Sing Tien Foo, Provost's Chair Professor, Dept of Real Estate at NUS Business School The Straits Time, 3 July 2026, Opinion, pB4 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/spacexs-investors-are-giving-up-control-to-buy-into-musks-vision/ Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:05:00 +0800 By Prof Johan Sulaeman, Dept of Finance at NUS Business School The Business Times, 3 July 2026, p15 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/02/science-commentary-ron-daniels-innovation-research-funding/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 19:15:00 +0000 In 'Science' commentary, JHU President Ron Daniels describes how the historical partnership between research universities and the federal government has ensured the nation's scientific preeminence University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/lerna-ekmekcioglu-named-head-history-section-0702 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:00:00 -0400 At MIT, I have tried to connect scholarship, teaching, and public conversation, Ekmekcioglu says. The new History Section head wants to sustain and expand the remarkable momentum already underway in the unit. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/building-scholarly-community-shass-faculty-fellows-0702 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:00:00 -0400 Political scientists Rich Nielsen and Volha Charnysh and philosopher Kevin Dorst (seated, from left) discuss music professor Emily Richmond Pollock's (foreground) project. Each is a member of the inaugural SHASS Faculty Fellows cohort. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/why-are-some-bacterial-genes-high-purines-0702 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:00:00 -0400 Rho (ring of blue and orange orbs) serves as a termination factor a protein that halts the production of single-stranded genetic blueprints (red) that will serve no purpose. Rhos specificity for dealing with this transcriptional noise was long a mystery, but MIT researchers found that a purine bias in coding gene sequences shields productive transcripts from Rho termination. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/02/1140045/achieving-operational-excellence-with-ai/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 15:37:08 +0000 Frameworks like Lean Six Sigma and business process management (BPM) first gained traction because they promised clarity in the chaosa structured way to bring order to messy, sprawling operations. Lean Six Sigma emphasized statistical rigor and quality control; BPM created end-to-end maps of how work should flow across departments. Both offered a repeatable way to University/MIT_Technology https://news.umich.edu/democracy-at-250-u-m-expert-on-political-fatigue-social-media-and-civic-life/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 14:27:32 +0000 As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, questions about democracy, political engagement and what brings Americans together are taking on renewed attention. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/democracy-at-250-u-m-expert-on-political-fatigue-social-media-and-civic-life/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 14:27:32 +0000 As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, questions about democracy, political engagement and what brings Americans together are taking on renewed attention. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/07/02/sports-performance-data-analytics-research/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 13:48:17 +0000 The Sports Analytics Research Group employs quantitative analysis to give teams the hard numbers they need to perform better University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/02/1138433/teaching-ai-to-run-with-the-turbines/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 12:51:44 +0000 Artificial intelligence may have captured the public imagination through chatbots and image generators, but some of its most consequential use cases are unfolding far from consumer-facing tools. In industries where physical infrastructure, operational continuity, and safety are paramount, AI is becoming a core operating layer. With its sprawling industrial systems and constant stream of operational University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/02/1140027/the-download-ai-groupthink-llms/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. LLMs are stuck in a groupthink groove. This startup is trying to get them out. Open up your chatbot of choiceClaude, ChatGPT, Geminiand type Give me a random number between 1 University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/speeding-manual-process-helps-cornell-recover-100000 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:07:47 +0000 A two-semester collaboration between the Cornell AI Innovation Hub, graduate students and the Cornell Treasury Operations team transformed a time‑consuming, manual investigation process into a tool that helps staff process cryptic payments. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/speeding-manual-process-helps-cornell-recover-100000 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:07:47 +0000 A two-semester collaboration between the Cornell AI Innovation Hub, graduate students and the Cornell Treasury Operations team transformed a timeconsuming, manual investigation process into a tool that helps staff process cryptic payments. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/02/1139981/why-californias-carbon-manure-math-doesnt-add-up/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 09:00:00 +0000 Something stinks in Californias climate policies. Years ago, the state set up a system that pays cattle farmers across the country to turn the methane emitted from cattle manure into natural gas, encouraging the dairy sector to produce a gas we burn instead of one that just pollutes the air. Its become wildly popular because University/MIT_Technology https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/keeping-europes-technological-choices-open/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 08:30:40 +0000 In an age of AI chokepoints, Europe’s choices will depend on the capacities it builds now. The OII's Johanna Ballesteros and TUM Think Tank's DR Nicklas Berild Lundblad explain why. University/Oxford_University https://www.oii.ox.ac.uk/keeping-europes-technological-choices-open/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 08:30:40 +0000 In an age of AI chokepoints, Europes choices will depend on the capacities it builds now. The OII's Johanna Ballesteros and TUM Think Tank's DR Nicklas Berild Lundblad explain why. University/Oxford_University https://news.nus.edu.sg/student-built-ai-marking-tool-being-piloted-in-11-singapore-institutions/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:50:00 +0800 The Straits Times, 2 July 2026, The Big Story, pA5 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-researchers-develop-probabilistic-spintronic-processors/ Thu, 02 Jul 2026 09:30:00 +0800 Solving complex optimisation problems is central to many modern technologies, from logistics and financial modelling to chip design, communications and artificial intelligence (AI). However, as these problems grow in size, conventional computers often require substantial time and energy to search for good solutions. A research team led by Professor Yang Hyunsoo from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the College of Design and Engineering at the National University of Singapore (NUS) has developed new spintronic computing hardware that offers a promising route towards faster and more energy-efficient optimisation. The team reported two recent advances in Nature Communications , demonstrating probabilistic computing systems based on magnetic tunnel junctions, nanoscale devices that can naturally generate tuneable randomness. A practical path beyond conventional computing Quantum computing has long been viewed as a potential breakthrough for optimisation, but practical quantum advantage remains difficult to achieve in the near term. The NUS teams work shows that probabilistic computing, built using scalable spintronic hardware, could provide a more immediate and hardware-efficient path. In the first study , the researchers demonstrated a parallel magnetic tunnel junction-based probabilistic Ising processor for solving quadratic assignment problems, a class of computationally demanding optimisation problems. The system integrates 144 compact spintronic tuneable random number generators in a massively parallel architecture. The processor achieved a 3.2-fold speedup with 58.3 per cent energy savings compared with a central processing unit (CPU) implementation. Importantly, the team compared its system with state-of-the-art D-Wave quantum annealers. In the tested quadratic assignment problems, the spintronic probabilistic processor consistently produced feasible, high-quality solutions across the full dataset, while the quantum annealers struggled to return feasible solutions as the problem size increased. This comparison highlights the potential of spintronic probabilistic computing as a practical near-term alternative for real-world optimisation workloads. Quantum computing remains an exciting long-term direction, but many optimisation problems need practical solutions today, said Prof Yang. Our results show that spintronic probabilistic computing can deliver strong gains in speed, energy efficiency and solution quality using a hardware platform that is much closer to practical deployment. In the second study , the team demonstrated a larger probabilistic Ising machine based on 250 spin-transfer-torque magnetic tunnel junctions. The work showed that a cluster parallel update method could achieve a 10-fold acceleration for sparsely connected graphs without changing the hardware. The researchers also experimentally showed that simulated quantum annealing improved solution quality by 20 times compared to conventional simulated annealing, while increasing robustness to device variability. Instead of treating randomness as a source of error, we use it as a computing resource, said Mr Yang Shuhan, PhD student in the College of Design and Engineering at NUS and the first author of both papers. By combining stochastic magnetic devices with parallel architectures and advanced annealing algorithms, we can accelerate optimisation while reducing energy consumption. Together, the two studies address key challenges in probabilistic computing: performance, scalability, energy efficiency and solution quality. The research involved collaborators from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Politecnico di Bari, the University of Messina, Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, and Peking University. Potential applications and next steps Looking ahead, the team aims to further scale up the hardware and explore chiplet-based architectures for large-scale probabilistic computing. Such systems could eventually support energy-efficient computing platforms for AI, logistics, scheduling, financial modelling, communications and electronic design automation. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/dengue-road-development-peruvian-amazon Thu, 02 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A new Stanford-led study finds dengue cases surged 400% near a newly paved highway in the Peruvian Amazon, with implications as more roads are planned in remote areas worldwide. University/Stanford_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-media-innovating-and-educating-next-250-years-america Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:30:00 -0400 MIT President Sally Kornbluth and ASU President Michael Crow discuss how universities are preparing the next generation of scientists to lead in Americas rapidly changing technological landscape. University/MIT_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/weirdest-fashion-trend-ever/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 19:04:00 +0000 Dads uniform might look boring, but the history behind it is not University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.mit.edu/2026/boleslaw-wyslouch-steps-down-director-laboratory-nuclear-science-0701 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 14:30:00 -0400 Boleslaw Wyslouch has served as LNS director since 2015. University/MIT_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/07/01/qa-study-warns-rising-temperatures-could-push-rice-beyond-historical-heat-limits/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:53:40 +0000 A new study from Jade d'Alpoim Guedes, UW associate professor of anthropology, warns that the future of rice arguably the most important crop on Earth is in danger. Due to rising temperatures driven by climate change, projections show that Asias major rice-producing regions may soon pass the thermal limits that have remained consistent throughout the crops history. This would create unparalleled challenges in a region where more than a billion people rely on rice cultivation for their livelihoods. University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/07/01/statement-on-activist-group-not-affiliated-with-the-university/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 15:24:33 +0000 The Seattle-based activist group calling itself “Students United for Palestinian Equality and Return” (SUPER) has no affiliation with the University of Washington. University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/07/01/statement-on-activist-group-not-affiliated-with-the-university/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 15:24:33 +0000 The Seattle-based activist group calling itself Students United for Palestinian Equality and Return (SUPER) has no affiliation with the University of Washington. University/University_of_Washington_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/07/hot-off-the-presses-the-declaration-of-independence/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 15:19:37 +0000 A flawed first copy dashed off in all-nighter endures as template for democracy in action University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.umich.edu/smarter-diagnostics-could-extend-the-lives-of-silicon-ev-batteries/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 14:55:44 +0000 Electric vehicle batteries could last twice as long, preventing costly replacement, with a new approach to heating and cooling the batteries, according to a study led by University of Michigan Engineering. General Motors and Imperial College London also contributed to the study, which was funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/smarter-diagnostics-could-extend-the-lives-of-silicon-ev-batteries/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 14:55:44 +0000 Electric vehicle batteries could last twice as long, preventing costly replacement, with a new approach to heating and cooling the batteries, according to a study led by University of Michigan Engineering. General Motors and Imperial College London also contributed to the study, which was funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/01/1140003/llms-are-stuck-in-a-groupthink-rut-this-startup-is-trying-to-get-them-out/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 14:35:16 +0000 Lets start with a game. Open up your chatbot of choiceClaude, ChatGPT, Geminiand type Give me a random number between 1 and 10. Youre going to get 7. Almost always. Now type Another and youll get 3 or 4. Type Another again and youll get 8 or 9. That wont work every timebut if it University/MIT_Technology https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/07/01/summer-reads-2026-princeton-professors-share-whats-their-lists Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:51:00 -0400 This summer’s mix includes botany, sculpture, music, some deep cuts in sci-fi and fantasy, novels set in France, Ireland, Sweden, the Swiss Alps and across Asia, a memoir from Cameroon, a book of letters from ancient Egypt, a cat behavior book and more. University/Princeton_University_News https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/07/01/summer-reads-2026-princeton-professors-share-whats-their-lists Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:51:00 -0400 This summers mix includes botany, sculpture, music, some deep cuts in sci-fi and fantasy, novels set in France, Ireland, Sweden, the Swiss Alps and across Asia, a memoir from Cameroon, a book of letters from ancient Egypt, a cat behavior book and more. University/Princeton_University_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/marine-corps-cornell-tech-harold-reeds-next-mission-tech-leadership Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:07:28 +0000 During nine years in the United States Marine Corps, Harold Reed was responsible for complex systems, high-stakes decisions, and the people behind them. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/marine-corps-cornell-tech-harold-reeds-next-mission-tech-leadership Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:07:28 +0000 During nine years in the United States Marine Corps, Harold Reed was responsible for complex systems, high-stakes decisions, and the people behind them. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/workers-temporary-protected-status-aid-nyss-economy-society Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:07:23 +0000 Central Americans with the status make signification contributions to New York’s economy and civic and political organizations, an ILR School report says. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/workers-temporary-protected-status-aid-nyss-economy-society Wed, 01 Jul 2026 13:07:23 +0000 Central Americans with the status make signification contributions to New Yorks economy and civic and political organizations, an ILR School report says. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/07/01/1139996/the-download-anthropic-claude-science-california-carbon-manure/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. Claude Science is Anthropics newest flagship product At an event for pharmaceutical executives, biotech founders, and researchers yesterday, Anthropic announced Claude Science, a major new product intended to support scientific research University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/international-team-sheds-light-how-planet-survived-its-stars-death Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:07:12 +0000 Using James Webb Space Telescope observations, Cornell astronomers show that WD 1856 b, a planet that survived its star’s death, migrated later and has methane-rich atmosphere. University/Cornell_Physical_Science_Engineering https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/international-team-sheds-light-how-planet-survived-its-stars-death Wed, 01 Jul 2026 11:07:12 +0000 Using James Webb Space Telescope observations, Cornell astronomers show that WD 1856 b, a planet that survived its stars death, migrated later and has methane-rich atmosphere. University/Cornell_Physical_Science_Engineering https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/cornell-small-grains-breeding-strengthens-local-and-global-food-systems Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:07:55 +0000 Led by Mark Sorrells and decades of innovation and collaboration, Cornell's small grains breeding program has developed higher-yielding, pest- and disease-resistant grain varieties that have strengthened the agricultural industry in New York state. University/Cornell_Food_Agriculture https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/cornell-small-grains-breeding-strengthens-local-and-global-food-systems Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:07:55 +0000 Led by Mark Sorrells and decades of innovation and collaboration, Cornell's small grains breeding program has developed higher-yielding, pest- and disease-resistant grain varieties that have strengthened the agricultural industry in New York state. University/Cornell_Food_Agriculture https://news.nus.edu.sg/small-states-are-the-best-bet-for-keeping-world-at-peace/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:34:00 +0800 By Prof Danny Quah, Li Ka Shing Professor in Economics from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at NUS CNA Online, 1 July 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/the-kindest-thing-you-can-do-for-a-failing-business-is-close-it/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:34:00 +0800 By Dr Lee Yen Teik from the Dept of Finance at NUS Business School The Straits Times, 1 July 2026, Opinion, pB3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/can-ai-plan-heat-emergencies-better-simple-rules-it-depends Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:07:00 +0000 For consequential decision-making, the benefits of a simple index score vs. a less-interpretable predictive AI algorithm depend, researchers from Cornell found, on the desired outcome as well as the decision’s intended audience. University/Cornell_Computing_Information_Science https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/psa-levels-alone-may-not-reflect-prostate-cancer-growth Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:07:00 +0000 Patients with advanced prostate cancer may need periodic imaging scans to catch tumor growth even with stable levels of prostate-specific antigen, a protein in the blood that doctors routinely monitor for cancer progression. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/can-ai-plan-heat-emergencies-better-simple-rules-it-depends Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:07:00 +0000 For consequential decision-making, the benefits of a simple index score vs. a less-interpretable predictive AI algorithm depend, researchers from Cornell found, on the desired outcome as well as the decisions intended audience. University/Cornell_Computing_Information_Science https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/07/psa-levels-alone-may-not-reflect-prostate-cancer-growth Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:07:00 +0000 Patients with advanced prostate cancer may need periodic imaging scans to catch tumor growth even with stable levels of prostate-specific antigen, a protein in the blood that doctors routinely monitor for cancer progression. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.mit.edu/2026/how-urban-design-leads-to-better-wellness-0701 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400 People relax on the Boston Common lawn beneath the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/portable-ultrasound-system-could-make-reliable-breast-imaging-more-accessible-0701 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Four views of vivo ultrasound images show, from left to right: a cyst; breast implant; dense fibrous tissue; and solid mass. The top row shows the conventional 2D ultrasound images while the bottom row shows the corresponding 3D images, allowing for easier detection. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/brain-language-network-more-extensive-than-previously-thought-0701 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 MIT scientists have found that parts of the brain outside of traditional language processing regions also respond selectively to language, including parts of the medial cortex (shown in red). University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-kalaniyot-program-expands-new-cohort-of-scholars-0701 Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 Were all about finding practical solutions to societys biggest problems. Kalaniyot brings extraordinary people here to do exactly that, and the whole Institute is stronger for it, Ernest Fraenkel says. University/MIT_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/electrification-health-program-electric-appliances-research Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 By uniting researchers, health experts, and community groups, Electrification for Health aims to help households move off gas appliances and onto electric alternatives. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/07/cancer-fighting-antibodies-imaging-technique Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Antibody therapies show limited success in solid tumors. A new Stanford Medicine imaging method, precise enough to locate antibodies at subcellular resolution, hints at why. University/Stanford_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/30/1139987/claude-science-is-anthropics-newest-flagship-product/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 21:50:04 +0000 At an event for pharmaceutical executives, biotech founders, and researchers on Tuesday, Anthropic announced Claude Science, a major new product intended to support scientific research in the same way that Claude Code supports software engineering. Like Claude Code, Claude Science can autonomously carry out meaningful work when given concise, high-level instructions, and it has access University/MIT_Technology https://news.umich.edu/home-counseling-visits-increase-hiv-testing-for-couples-viral-suppression-for-mothers-in-kenya/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:39:00 +0000 A home-based counseling program for pregnant women and their male partners increased couples HIV testing and helped mothers living with HIV achieve viral suppression, new research shows. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/home-counseling-visits-increase-hiv-testing-for-couples-viral-suppression-for-mothers-in-kenya/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:39:00 +0000 A home-based counseling program for pregnant women and their male partners increased couples HIV testing and helped mothers living with HIV achieve viral suppression, new research shows. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/06/30/center-for-talented-youth-summer-2026/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 19:20:23 +0000 Students will spend three weeks immersed in academically challenging subjects at Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth sites in California, Florida, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island, and online University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/06/its-easy-just-learn-everything/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:53:06 +0000 Jeopardy! star Paolo Pasco 22 on right (and wrong) answers University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/06/authentic/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:30:18 +0000 Everyone sees through your fake cool neighborhood University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/06/remembering-jack-reardon-the-best-of-the-university-personified/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:29:08 +0000 Amazingly well-lived life marked by a gift for instilling in others a sense of their own potential University/Harvard_Gazette https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/06/30/rubin-observatory-legacy-survey-space-time-lsst/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:27:57 +0000 The Simonyi Survey Telescope at the NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory has officially begun its ten-year survey of the southern sky, the Legacy Survey of Space and Time. University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/06/30/rubin-observatory-legacy-survey-space-time-lsst/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 18:27:57 +0000 The Simonyi Survey Telescope at the NSFDOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory has officially begun its ten-year survey of the southern sky, the Legacy Survey of Space and Time. University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/30/1139958/roundtables-longevitys-next-frontier-reprogramming-your-body/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:36:48 +0000 Listen to the session or watch below Billions of dollars are flooding into efforts to reverse aging as scientists explore ways to return cells to a younger state. But how far off are these experimental treatments? Will they really work? Watch a conversation exploring longevitys new focus. Speakers: Mary Beth Griggs, science editor and Jessica University/MIT_Technology https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/06/30/scotus-birthright-citizenship-ruling-historian-martha-jones/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:35:00 +0000 In a 6-3 decision, the court reaffirmed the long-held principle that children born in the U.S. are citizens University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/interdisciplinary-mit-teams-win-top-honors-nasa-competition-0630 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:30:00 -0400 Three MIT teams took five top awards in the 2026 NASA RASC-AL Competition for designing critical elements for the moon base and future missions to Mars. University/MIT_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/06/30/june-research-highlights-air-quality-inequity-ultrafast-chemistry-cigar-galaxy-more/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:29:57 +0000 Explore recent research from the University of Washington: low-income communities and communities of color disproportionately impacted by air pollution, an unfathomably fast chemical reaction, ups and downs in the methane record, and the cigar galaxy pictured at high resolution. University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/06/30/june-research-highlights-air-quality-inequity-ultrafast-chemistry-cigar-galaxy-more/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:29:57 +0000 Explore recent research from the University of Washington: low-income communities and communities of color disproportionately impacted by air pollution, an unfathomably fast chemical reaction, ups and downs in the methane record, and the cigar galaxy pictured at high resolution. University/University_of_Washington_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/mit-researchers-advance-toward-greater-bandwidth-more-energy-efficient-0630 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:00:00 -0400 FUTUR-IC, funded by the National Science Foundation Convergence Accelerator, was created to address resource-efficiency issues. For example, integrating photonics with the electronics that underpin todays microchips could address energy use because the transmission, or communication of data, using light is much more energy efficient. University/MIT_News https://news.umich.edu/supreme-court-cases-u-m-law-experts-available-to-discuss/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:17:34 +0000 The U.S. Supreme Court's final decisions of the term are expected to influence everything from government authority to everyday life. As opinions are released and their implications unfold, University of Michigan Law School experts are available to help explain what the rulings mean, why they matter, and what comes next. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/supreme-court-cases-u-m-law-experts-available-to-discuss/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:17:34 +0000 The U.S. Supreme Court's final decisions of the term are expected to influence everything from government authority to everyday life. As opinions are released and their implications unfold, University of Michigan Law School experts are available to help explain what the rulings mean, why they matter, and what comes next. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://hub.jhu.edu/2026/06/30/lgbtq-history-archives-johns-hopkins/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:05:00 +0000 Curator Gabrielle Dean and librarian Siân Evans share the university's collection of LGBTQ+ books, photos, zines, and morea testament to the queer community's struggles and joy University/Johns_Hopkins_University_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/06/30/some-agentic-ai-browsers-come-with-major-cybersecurity-risks-uw-study-finds/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:02:55 +0000 A UW team studied seven popular agentic AI browsers and found that four create ways for malicious actors to bypass a fundamental cybersecurity protocol called the “same-origin policy,” which makes websites open in a browser unable to interact with each other’s information. Researchers ran a successful proof-of-concept cyberattack on one browser. University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/06/30/some-agentic-ai-browsers-come-with-major-cybersecurity-risks-uw-study-finds/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:02:55 +0000 A UW team studied seven popular agentic AI browsers and found that four create ways for malicious actors to bypass a fundamental cybersecurity protocol called the same-origin policy, which makes websites open in a browser unable to interact with each others information. Researchers ran a successful proof-of-concept cyberattack on one browser. University/University_of_Washington_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/agentic-ai-and-what-do-we-want-it-be-0630 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:30:00 -0400 Agentic AI is AI that takes actions in the world, says Phillip Isola. University/MIT_News https://news.umich.edu/fast-food-fries-and-science-inside-u-ms-lab-studying-cravings/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0000 The experiment starts before anyone takes a bite. There's no drive-thru. No cashier calling the next order. No glowing sign announcing the restaurant is open. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/fast-food-fries-and-science-inside-u-ms-lab-studying-cravings/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0000 The experiment starts before anyone takes a bite. There's no drive-thru. No cashier calling the next order. No glowing sign announcing the restaurant is open. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/30/1139954/the-download-ai-agents-coworkers-solar-powered-internet/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. AI agents are not your coworkers Imagine coming in to work to learn that a new underling will report to you. The worker is not a person but an AI toolone University/MIT_Technology https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/30/1139513/agriculture-is-ready-for-ai-but-its-data-isnt/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:00:00 +0000 Artificial intelligence is transforming what is possible in agriculture, but industry leaders should be wary of investing in AI without first laying the groundwork. The use cases are promising, especially for an industry navigating volatile fertilizer costs, unpredictable weather, and margins that leave little room for error. Research shows AI-enabled predictive models can improve crop University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/east-coast-broccoli-lowers-costs-and-risks-california-drought Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:06:17 +0000 Expanding broccoli production on the East Coast and outside of California can help stabilize fresh produce supply chains that are vulnerable to water shortages. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/east-coast-broccoli-lowers-costs-and-risks-california-drought Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:06:17 +0000 Expanding broccoli production on the East Coast and outside of California can help stabilize fresh produce supply chains that are vulnerable to water shortages. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/matt-marx-named-vice-provost-entrepreneurship-innovation-and-external-engagement Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:06:00 +0000 Marx will establish and serve as inaugural director of the Cornell Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, to boost university efforts to commercialize breakthrough scientific discoveries. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/matt-marx-named-vice-provost-entrepreneurship-innovation-and-external-engagement Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:06:00 +0000 Marx will establish and serve as inaugural director of the Cornell Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, to boost university efforts to commercialize breakthrough scientific discoveries. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/30/1139661/building-tech-in-the-worlds-secret-rd-hub/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:23:30 +0000 Apple. Anthropic. Disney Research. Google. Meta. Microsoft. NVIDIA. OpenAI. Few places outside Silicon Valley can claim R&D hubs from all of these companies. Fewer still are concentrated in a city of just over 400,000 peopleroughly half the size of San Francisco. Over the past two decades, however, many of the worlds most influential technology companies University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/st-engineering-chief-vincent-chong-joins-the-nus-board-of-trustees-on-1-july/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:18:00 +0800 Lianhe Zaobao, 30 June 2026, Singapore, p7 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/private-housing-is-decoupling-from-hdb-market-as-buyer-pools-diverge/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:17:00 +0800 The Business Times, 30 June 2026, p2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/oral-vaccine-developed-for-farmed-fish-from-fatal-nervous-necrosis-virus/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:16:00 +0800 Tamil Murasu, 30 June 2026, p3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/defences-against-disease-x-weakened-by-one-missing-ingredient-trust/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:15:00 +0800 By Prof Teo Yik Ying, NUS Vice-President (Global Health) and Dean of the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health at NUS The Straits Times, 30 June 2026, Opinion, pB3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/the-missing-link-in-aseans-ai-economy-trusted-cross-border-data-flows/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:13:00 +0800 By Ms Jesslene Lee, Researcher from the Asia Competitiveness Institute at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at NUS; and Dr Liu Jingting, Senior Lecturer at James Cook University Singapore The Business Times, 30 June 2026, p16 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/beyond-us-china-rivalry-triangular-geopolitics-of-critical-minerals-is-reshaping-global-trade/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:12:00 +0800 By Assoc Prof Gu Qingyang, from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at NUS Lianhe Zaobao, 30 June 2026, Opinion, p12 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/cornell-led-nih-grant-will-reveal-how-immune-cells-communicate-living-tissues Tue, 30 Jun 2026 09:06:29 +0000 A $13.3 million grant from the NIH will support efforts to reveal how immune cells communicate within living tissues, which could shape new approaches for treating inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders and infections. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/cornell-led-nih-grant-will-reveal-how-immune-cells-communicate-living-tissues Tue, 30 Jun 2026 09:06:29 +0000 A $13.3 million grant from the NIH will support efforts to reveal how immune cells communicate within living tissues, which could shape new approaches for treating inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders and infections. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/aging-dams-safety-economics-challenges Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Two Stanford water experts discuss the safety, economic, and environmental tradeoffs driving debates over dam removal. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/denis-c-phillips-obituary Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 The longtime Stanford professor was an influential voice in the philosophy of education, bringing clarity to questions about how knowledge develops. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/rubin-observatory-legacy-survey-space-time Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 NSFDOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory has officially kicked off its Legacy Survey of Space and Time, marking the beginning of a new era in astronomy and astrophysics. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/water-pollution-fish-species-hybridization-research Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 A study in Mexico finds that water pollution can threaten biodiversity through hybridization, causing distinct species to collapse into one. University/Stanford_News https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/06/first-phase-of-enterprise-research-campus-completed/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 19:30:35 +0000 Local leaders join Harvard and Tishman Speyer to celebrate opening University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2026/06/ai-has-lots-of-people-digging-out-their-ipods/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 19:29:58 +0000 The vision of the future being pushed by tech moguls is not necessarily a vision weve all bought into. University/Harvard_Gazette https://news.mit.edu/2026/scientists-find-ozone-depletion-began-decades-before-ozone-hole-discovery-0629 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 15:00:00 -0400 The fact that ozone depletion would have happened as early as the late 1950s, which is much earlier than I would have thought, just absolutely blew my mind, says Susan Solomon. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/two-mit-faculty-members-named-2026-pew-biomedical-scholars-0629 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 15:00:00 -0400 MIT scientists Whitney Henry (left) and Harikesh Wong have been named 2026 Pew Biomedical Scholars. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/inaugural-mit-music-technology-research-showcase-celebrates-work-students-0629 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 15:00:00 -0400 Hearts were used as a music visualizer during Carlos Mariano Salcedos 25, SM 26 presentation with Noble Harasha 25, SM 26 playing a modular synthesizer (left); PhD student Valerie K. Chen 22, MEng 23 played cello in "Whale Cello (there?)! University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/care-midst-pressure-anantha-chandrakasan-0629 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:00:00 -0400 Professor Anantha Chandrakasan works alongside two graduate students in his lab. University/MIT_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/3-questions-beyond-data-driven-aesthetics-alexandros-haridis-0629 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:00:00 -0400 "Beyond Data-Driven Aesthetics," by Alexandros Haridis at the MIT Keller Gallery, presents historical and contemporary works that examine how algorithms, computation, and machine learning have shaped aesthetic thinking in architecture and design. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/29/1139849/ai-agents-are-not-your-coworkers/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:00:00 +0000 This story originally appeared in The Algorithm, our weekly newsletter on AI. To get stories like this in your inbox first, sign up here. Imagine coming in to work to learn that a new underling will report to you. The worker is not a person but an AI toolone that your company nonetheless calls Alex, an University/MIT_Technology https://news.umich.edu/u-ms-detroit-neighborhood-entrepreneurs-project-leans-into-ai-to-support-small-businesses/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:08:08 +0000 Formed a decade ago to connect Detroit businesses with University of Michigan expertise, the Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project is leveraging AI to augment its human help. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.umich.edu/u-ms-detroit-neighborhood-entrepreneurs-project-leans-into-ai-to-support-small-businesses/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:08:08 +0000 Formed a decade ago to connect Detroit businesses with University of Michigan expertise, the Detroit Neighborhood Entrepreneurs Project is leveraging AI to augment its human help. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.mit.edu/2026/graphene-can-hold-multiple-states-of-superconductivity-0629 Mon, 29 Jun 2026 11:00:00 -0400 This graphic illustrates three different ways that electrons can pair up and flow through rhombohedral pentalayer graphene without resistance. The three different superconducting states (represented by different colors) surprisingly persist, and can even be boosted in a magnetic field, which normally kills superconductivity. University/MIT_News https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/29/1139635/agent-confidence-on-the-technical-frontier/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:44:01 +0000 Enterprise investment in AI is booming. Gartner is calling 2026 an inflection year for organizations to align their AI projects with strategic business objectives. As the pressure to prove ROI mounts, executives and technology leaders are looking to agentic AI to drive the measurable financial outcomes their businesses seek. A prime opportunity for AI agents University/MIT_Technology https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/there-may-be-3-times-many-insect-species-previously-thought Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:06:04 +0000 A new estimate of insect species globally finds that there may be 8 to 14 million more species than people thought, with few of them discovered. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/there-may-be-3-times-many-insect-species-previously-thought Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:06:04 +0000 A new estimate of insect species globally finds that there may be 8 to 14 million more species than people thought, with few of them discovered. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://news.cornell.edu/index%2ephp/stories/2026/06/there-may-be-3-times-many-insect-species-previously-thought Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:06:04 +0000 A new estimate of insect species globally finds that there may be 8 to 14 million more species than people thought, with few of them discovered. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://news.umich.edu/mapping-trade-offs-to-help-build-better-ev-batteries/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:00:00 +0000 Working with car companies, battery developers and policy makers, University of Michigan researchers have developed a framework to help stakeholders navigate toward a future with better, more affordable and more sustainable electric vehicles. University/University_of_Michigan_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/cornell-yang-center-wildlife-health-awards-seed-funding-five-conservation-efforts Mon, 29 Jun 2026 13:06:40 +0000 The CCF provides catalytic seed funding to spark pioneering applied research to advance wildlife conservation solutions. The fund prioritizes initiatives that improve the health of free-ranging wildlife and/or solve environmental problems via a One Health lens. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/cornell-yang-center-wildlife-health-awards-seed-funding-five-conservation-efforts Mon, 29 Jun 2026 13:06:40 +0000 The CCF provides catalytic seed funding to spark pioneering applied research to advance wildlife conservation solutions. The fund prioritizes initiatives that improve the health of free-ranging wildlife and/or solve environmental problems via a One Health lens. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://news.cornell.edu/index%2ephp/stories/2026/06/cornell-yang-center-wildlife-health-awards-seed-funding-five-conservation-efforts Mon, 29 Jun 2026 13:06:40 +0000 The CCF provides catalytic seed funding to spark pioneering applied research to advance wildlife conservation solutions. The fund prioritizes initiatives that improve the health of free-ranging wildlife and/or solve environmental problems via a One Health lens. University/Cornell_Energy_Environmental_Sustainability https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/06/29/1139834/the-download-metric-weaknesses-ai-elephant-warnings/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:10:00 +0000 This is todays edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology. The inevitable weakness of metrics There are plenty of useful things a metric can reveal. There are even more that it can obscure or corrupt. Like a lot of people bitten University/MIT_Technology https://news.nus.edu.sg/private-housing-is-decoupling-from-hdb-market-as-buyer-pools-diverge-nus-survey/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:17:00 +0800 Money 89.3FM, 29 June 2026 The Business Times, 30 June 2026, p2 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/healthcare-leaders-call-for-strong-digital-leadership-to-drive-sustainable-transformation-and-ai-value-creation/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:08:00 +0800 CNA Online, 29 June 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/digital-research-repository-arxiv-start-new-chapter-nonprofit Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:06:34 +0000 On July 1, the digital research respository arXiv, housed at Cornell Tech, will transition to an independent nonprofit, enabling faster technological development, expanded partnerships and long-term financial sustainability. University/Cornell_Computing_Information_Science https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/digital-research-repository-arxiv-start-new-chapter-nonprofit Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:06:34 +0000 On July 1, the digital research respository arXiv, housed at Cornell Tech, will transition to an independent nonprofit, enabling faster technological development, expanded partnerships and long-term financial sustainability. University/Cornell_Computing_Information_Science https://news.cornell.edu/index%2Ephp/stories/2026/06/digital-research-repository-arxiv-start-new-chapter-nonprofit Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:06:34 +0000 On July 1, the digital research respository arXiv, housed at Cornell Tech, will transition to an independent nonprofit, enabling faster technological development, expanded partnerships and long-term financial sustainability. University/Cornell_Physical_Science_Engineering https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/ai-changing-expectations-mba-graduates Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:06:33 +0000 While MBA job prospects are expected to remain stable in the near future, new hires will be held to higher standards inside rapidly evolving workplaces. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/ai-changing-expectations-mba-graduates Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:06:33 +0000 While MBA job prospects are expected to remain stable in the near future, new hires will be held to higher standards inside rapidly evolving workplaces. University/Cornell_Business_Economics https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/library-exhibit-reveals-glimpses-george-washingtons-life Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:06:10 +0000 Cornell University Library exhibit marks the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence with a display of historical materials connected to the nation’s first president. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/library-exhibit-reveals-glimpses-george-washingtons-life Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:06:10 +0000 Cornell University Library exhibit marks the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence with a display of historical materials connected to the nations first president. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.nus.edu.sg/nutri-grade-labelling-proves-effective-as-demand-for-high-sugar-drinks-plummets/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:01:00 +0800 8world Online, 29 June 2026 Lianhe Zaobao, 30 June 2026, Singapore, p5 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-scientists-develop-oral-vaccine-to-protect-farmed-fish-from-deadly-virus/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:37:00 +0800 The Straits Times, 29 June 2026, Science, pA15 Money 89.3FM, 29 June 2026 Kiss92FM, 29 June 2026 One FM 91.3, 29 June 2026 Tamil Murasu, 30 June 2026, p3 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/study-healthcare-costs-associated-with-asthma-and-copd-expected-to-exceed-s10-billion-over-20-years/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:35:00 +0800 Lianhe Zaobao, 29 June 2026, Singapore, p7 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/teen-boys-physically-punished-twice-often-as-girls-study/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:34:00 +0800 The Straits Times, 29 June 2026, Singapore, pA11 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/three-nus-students-build-ai-tool-to-tackle-teachers-marking-load-give-quality-feedback/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:32:00 +0800 The Straits Times Online, 29 June 2026 University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/nus-breakthrough-aquaculture-oral-vaccine-protects-fish/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:31:52 +0800 Disease management is a significant aspect of aquaculture which is a vital industry that is a significant food source. One of the most serious threats is a disease caused by the nervous necrosis virus (NNV) which can wipe out large populations of farmed fish and cause major economic losses in the aquaculture industry. To strengthen the aquaculture industry, NUS scientists, together with researchers from the Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, have developed a novel oral vaccine for fish that can protect them against NNV and be implemented in an effective, efficient and practical way to immunise large amounts of fish. The team was led by Professor Yang Daiwen from the Department of Biological Sciences at the NUS Faculty of Science and the research findings were published in the journal Fish & Shellfish Immunology on 5 January 2026. Traditional vaccination involves injecting fish individually which can cause fish to be stressed. It is also impractical to execute on a large scale, and unsuitable to be administered on fish larvae and fingerlings. Oral vaccinations can be mixed directly into fish feed, offering a more practical, labour efficient and cost-effective solution. Fish are particularly vulnerable in the larval and juvenile stages, with the disease having a near 100 per cent mortality rate in the larval stage. Moreover, the growth is reduced even if some fish survive. At present, there are no simple and effective treatments available for NNV infection, making prevention through vaccination the most promising strategy. Our novel discovery of a viable and effective delivery system to transport virus-like particles to enable fish to resist the effects of NNV addresses this pertinent issue, said Prof Yang. Tackling a deadly virus in farmed fish The novel vaccine is designed using two core biological components one to train the fishs immune system and another to deliver the training module safely: 1. An imposter virus The researchers used the NNV outer shell, known as the capsid protein, to create Virus-Like Particles (VLPs). The VLPs are hollow, non-infectious replicas of the virus. As the VLPs look identical to NNV externally, they trigger an immune response within the fish. However, they do not contain genetic material and are hence incapable of causing disease. 2. A delivery vehicle The researchers needed a carrier to get the VLPs to the right place in the fishs body and chose Lactococcus lactis , a safe and well-understood bacterium. The VLPs were encapsulated inside the bacterial cells, which act as protective capsules. The capsule shields the VLPs as they travel through the fishs digestive system, ensuring they arrive in the gut where an immune response can be triggered. A challenge for the scientists was finding the perfect formula for the bacterium-encased VLPs to be delivered successfully to and released in the gut. After trials with live and heat-treated Lactococcus lactis , the researchers found that inactivating the bacteria with sodium hypochlorite protected the VLPs structure and solubility within the bacteria, ensuring that it could be delivered effectively to the immune system. The novel oral vaccine produced outstanding results as a method to protect fish against NNV. It induced two-times the levels of antibodies and neutralising antibodies antibodies which bind to pathogens and prevent them from entering host cells compared to feeding the fish purified VLPs directly which is also a much more expensive method. The vaccine was also proven to reduce brain viral load by about 300 times after fish were exposed to NNV for seven days. This means the vaccine dramatically reduced the amount of virus replicating in the fish, effectively protecting them from the lethal effects of the disease. Bringing research to real-world The oral vaccine can be applied to economically important fish species such as grouper, and European and Asian seabass. The research team has filed three patents for this novel vaccine and plans to collaborate with industrial partners for field trials on grouper and other types of fish. University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.nus.edu.sg/st-engineering-chief-vincent-chong-joins-the-nus-board-of-trustees/ Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:51:43 +0800 The National University of Singapore (NUS) will appoint Mr Vincent Chong to its Board of Trustees on 1 July 2026. Mr Chong is Group President & CEO of ST Engineering, a global technology, defence and engineering group with a portfolio of businesses across the aerospace, smart city, defence and public security segments. An NUS alumnus, Mr Chong also serves on the boards of Jurong Port and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore, and was a member of Singapores Economic Strategy Review Committee on Global Competitiveness. Mr Hsieh Fu Hua, Chairman of the NUS Board, said, We are delighted to welcome Vincent to our Board. His broad industry and leadership experience, international outlook and deep understanding of technology and engineering will certainly enrich our discussions. Members of the Board of Trustees are appointed by the Minister for Education. The Board is made up of eminent leaders from the public sector, academia, business and various professions. The Board works closely with the management and stakeholders of the University to shape its vision, chart major directions, and guide significant initiatives. More information on new Trustee Mr Vincent Chong can be found in Annexe 1 . The full list of Trustees can be found in Annexe 2 . University/National_University_of_Singapore_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/ai-hiring-tools-racial-bias-research Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 For many job postings, AI screening tools recommend white candidates at higher rates than Black and Asian candidates, new research shows. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/charles-holloway-obituary Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 By changing how entrepreneurship is taught, Holloway revolutionized management education. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/stanford-students-summer-book-recommendations Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 From fiction to nonfiction to poetry, heres what students recommend for your summer reading list. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/glp1-weight-loss-side-effects-safety Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 How do the drugs work? What happens if you stop? Is it safe to take them long term? Clinicians share everything you need to know about GLP-1 agonists. University/Stanford_News https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2026/06/arfid-treatments-family-individual-based-research Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Family- and individual-based therapy both improve eating variety in children with the pediatric eating disorder ARFID. University/Stanford_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/researchers-achieve-impossible-low-loss-tunable-dielectric Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:06:32 +0000 A late-night “Eureka” moment, a smashed computer and 17 years of persistence led researchers to achieve what many in microwave electronics had long considered out of reach: a tunable, low energy loss class of dielectric materials. University/Cornell_Physical_Science_Engineering https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/researchers-achieve-impossible-low-loss-tunable-dielectric Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:06:32 +0000 A late-night Eureka moment, a smashed computer and 17 years of persistence led researchers to achieve what many in microwave electronics had long considered out of reach: a tunable, low energy loss class of dielectric materials. University/Cornell_Physical_Science_Engineering https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/06/25/princeton-commemorating-america-250-exhibitions-and-events-campus-and-community Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:23:00 -0400 The “Nursery of Rebellion" exhibit at Firestone Library has concluded. Exhibits at Mudd Library and the Princeton University Art Museum continue all summer, along with community events. University/Princeton_University_News https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/06/25/princeton-commemorating-america-250-exhibitions-and-events-campus-and-community Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:23:00 -0400 The Nursery of Rebellion" exhibit at Firestone Library has concluded. Exhibits at Mudd Library and the Princeton University Art Museum continue all summer, along with community events. University/Princeton_University_News https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/06/25/princeton-service-new-nation Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:22:00 -0400 The sleepy colonial town of Princeton and The College of New Jersey — today’s Princeton University — both played an outsize role in our nation's founding. As the nation marks its semiquincentennial year, we take a look back. University/Princeton_University_News https://www.princeton.edu/news/2026/06/25/princeton-service-new-nation Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:22:00 -0400 The sleepy colonial town of Princeton and The College of New Jersey todays Princeton University both played an outsize role in our nation's founding. As the nation marks its semiquincentennial year, we take a look back. University/Princeton_University_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/06/25/papertok-an-ai-system-that-helps-users-turn-research-papers-into-short-engaging-videos/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:00:45 +0000 A UW team built an AI tool that helps users turn research papers into 45-second videos. A researcher uploads a paper to the tool, which uses Google Gemini to write a short script explaining the paper. The researcher can then iteratively edit the transcript and resulting video clip. University/University_of_Washington_News https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/06/25/papertok-an-ai-system-that-helps-users-turn-research-papers-into-short-engaging-videos/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:00:45 +0000 A UW team built an AI tool that helps users turn research papers into 45-second videos. A researcher uploads a paper to the tool, which uses Google Gemini to write a short script explaining the paper. The researcher can then iteratively edit the transcript and resulting video clip. University/University_of_Washington_News https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/predatory-sea-honored-maritime-history Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:06:20 +0000 The book, winner of the the John R. Lyman Book Award in World Maritime History, examines early Caribbean human trafficking and captivity. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/predatory-sea-honored-maritime-history Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:06:20 +0000 The book, winner of the the John R. Lyman Book Award in World Maritime History, examines early Caribbean human trafficking and captivity. University/Cornell_Arts_and_Humanities https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/stress-linked-gut-viruses-may-help-tumors-evade-immune-system Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:06:58 +0000 Chronic psychological stress can help tumors evade immune attack through a chain of molecular events involving gut bacteria and viruses within those bacteria. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/stress-linked-gut-viruses-may-help-tumors-evade-immune-system Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:06:58 +0000 Chronic psychological stress can help tumors evade immune attack through a chain of molecular events involving gut bacteria and viruses within those bacteria. University/Cornell_Health_Nutrition https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/it-skull-deformity-or-just-tiny-dog Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:06:21 +0000 A new study deepens the understanding of canine skull shapes, helping veterinarians distinguish problems from normal variation. University/Cornell_Life_Science https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/it-skull-deformity-or-just-tiny-dog Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:06:21 +0000 A new study deepens the understanding of canine skull shapes, helping veterinarians distinguish problems from normal variation. University/Cornell_Life_Science https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/06/simple-low-cost-activity-reduces-depression-young-adults Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:06:09 +0000 Journaling about one’s identities from childhood through early adulthood helped ease symptoms among people experiencing moderate to severe depression. University/Cornell_Social_Behavioural