How a 400 million year old fossil changes our understanding of mathematical patterns in nature

The arrangement of leaves on most plants follows a mathematical pattern – new research sheds light on how it evolved.

Holly-Anne Turner, PhD Candidate, Palaeobotany, University College Cork • conversation
June 16, 2023 ~7 min

How to make better decisions – using scoring systems

Conventional mathematical approaches to help us make decisions have key flaws.

Adrian Hopgood, Professor of Intelligent Systems and Theme Director of Future & Emerging Technologies, University of Portsmouth • conversation
June 15, 2023 ~8 min


New model offers a way to speed up drug discovery

By applying a language model to protein-drug interactions, researchers can quickly screen large libraries of potential drug compounds.

Anne Trafton | MIT News Office • mit
June 8, 2023 ~9 min

Bringing the social and ethical responsibilities of computing to the forefront

The inaugural SERC Symposium convened experts from multiple disciplines to explore the challenges and opportunities that arise with the broad applicability of computing in many aspects of society.

Terri Park | MIT Schwarzman College of Computing • mit
June 8, 2023 ~12 min

Turning a circle into a square is possible with this kirigami-inspired formula

A study inspired by the Japanese paper-cutting art provides a blueprint for designing shape-shifting materials and devices.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News Office • mit
June 1, 2023 ~8 min

A better way to study ocean currents

A new machine-learning model makes more accurate predictions about ocean currents, which could help with tracking plastic pollution and oil spills, and aid in search and rescue.

Adam Zewe | MIT News Office • mit
May 17, 2023 ~8 min

Getting too excited can stop men from orgasming – but there’s a solution

We found you can have too much of a good thing - psychological stimulation.

Yuliya Kyrychko, Reader in Mathematics, University of Sussex • conversation
May 15, 2023 ~7 min

Debunking the Dunning-Kruger effect – the least skilled people know how much they don't know, but everyone thinks they are better than average

The idea that the least skilled are the most unaware of their incompetency is pervasive in science and pop culture. But a new analysis of the data shows that the Dunning-Kruger effect may not be true.

Eric C. Gaze, Senior Lecturer of Mathematics, Bowdoin College • conversation
May 8, 2023 ~8 min


How to untangle a worm ball: Mathematicians solve a knotty mystery

California blackworms tangle themselves up by the thousands, then separate in a split second. Their trick may inspire the design of self-detangling materials and fibers.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News Office • mit
April 27, 2023 ~7 min

Dobble: what is the psychology behind the game?

Dobble is a card game that originated in France in 2009. It involves observation, articulation and speed.

Helen Hodgetts, Reader in Applied Cognitive Psychology, Cardiff Metropolitan University • conversation
April 25, 2023 ~6 min

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