Headlines

Machine learning proves that graphene is hydrophobic

For more than a decade, a fundamental mystery has surrounded graphene—the one-atom-thick "wonder material" known for its exceptional strength, conductivity, and transparency. Despite its seemingly simple structure, one basic question has remained unresolved: Does graphene

How social science helps keep bugs off corn

A new study suggests broad systemic problems play a significant role in disincentivizing corn growers from planting the refuge corn needed to keep pests from becoming resistant to the insect-killing traits in Bt corn. And social science can play a role in addressing this

The National Science Board purge, explained

Amid the many attention-grabbing headlines of 2026, there is a recent one that may have flown under the radar but shouldn't have. On April 24, the White House dismissed the entire 22-person board that oversees the National Science Foundation. The NSF is an independent federal

Old plant populations offer new clues to climate resilience

When scientists think about how plants will respond to climate change, they often look north. As temperatures rise, many species are expected to shift their ranges toward cooler regions with a loss of populations in warmer habitats. But new research from the University of

Complex habitat crucial to brush-tailed rock-wallaby survival

Brush-tailed rock-wallaby populations have dwindled for more than a century due to historical hunting for the European fur trade and competition and predation from introduced species. New research shows terrain complexity is an important factor when brush-tailed rock-wallabies

NASA’s Curiosity rover accidentally pulled a rock out of Mars

NASA’s Curiosity rover had an unexpectedly stubborn Mars souvenir after drilling into a rock nicknamed “Atacama” — the entire chunk ripped loose from the ground and stayed stuck to the rover’s drill. Engineers watched as Curiosity shook, vibrated, tilted, and spun the drill