Universal nanosensor unlocks the secrets to plant growth

Researchers from SMART DiSTAP developed the world’s first near-infrared fluorescent nanosensor capable of monitoring a plant’s primary growth hormone in real-time and without harming the plant.

Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology • mit
June 9, 2025 ~6 min

Technology developed by MIT engineers makes pesticides stick to plant leaves

With the new system, farmers could significantly cut their use of pesticides and fertilizers, saving money and reducing runoff.

David L. Chandler | MIT News • mit
March 25, 2025 ~10 min


High-speed videos show what happens when a droplet splashes into a pool

Findings may help predict how rain and irrigation systems launch particles and pathogens from watery surfaces, with implications for industry, agriculture, and public health.

Jennifer Chu | MIT News • mit
Feb. 21, 2025 ~8 min

J-WAFS: Supporting food and water research across MIT

For the past decade, the Abdul Latif Jameel Water and Food Systems Lab has strengthened MIT faculty efforts in water and food research and innovation.

Longzhen Han | Abdul Latif Jameel Water and Food Systems Lab • mit
Feb. 19, 2025 ~17 min

Streamlining data collection for improved salmon population management

Assistant Professor Sara Beery is using automation to improve monitoring of migrating salmon in the Pacific Northwest.

Avery Plachcinski | Abdul Latif Jameel Water and Food Systems Lab • mit
Feb. 6, 2025 ~13 min

A new biodegradable material to replace certain microplastics

MIT chemical engineers designed an environmentally friendly alternative to the microbeads used in some health and beauty products.

Anne Trafton | MIT News • mit
Dec. 6, 2024 ~7 min

An inflatable gastric balloon could help people lose weight

The new balloon can be expanded before a meal to prevent overeating, then deflated when no longer needed.

Anne Trafton | MIT News • mit
Dec. 3, 2024 ~6 min

Is there enough land on Earth to fight climate change and feed the world?

Study shows how smart policies could address competing land-use needs.

Mark Dwortzan | Center for Sustainability Science and Strategy • mit
Nov. 26, 2024 ~4 min


Making agriculture more resilient to climate change

Researchers across MIT are working on ways to boost food production and help crops survive drought.

Anne Trafton | MIT News • mit
Nov. 1, 2024 ~15 min

Study reveals the benefits and downside of fasting

Fasting helps intestinal stem cells regenerate and heal injuries but also leads to a higher risk of cancer in mice, MIT researchers report.

Anne Trafton | MIT News • mit
Aug. 21, 2024 ~8 min

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